A decade has passed since The Tragically Hip’s final performance in Kingston, Ontario, but Paul Langlois admits that he is still coming to terms with it. The guitarist reflected on the milestone during an interview with CBC’s Eli Glasner on “The National.” Langlois expressed gratitude for the band’s impact on fans and the significance of their farewell show.
The emotional evening marked the band’s farewell tour in 2016, culminating in a poignant performance at Kingston’s Rogers K-Rock Centre. Lead singer Gord Downie bid farewell to a packed audience as he sang iconic songs like “Ahead by a Century” and “Bobcaygeon” for the last time. Downie’s battle with terminal brain cancer, diagnosed in December 2015, tragically led to his passing a year later at the age of 53.
To honor the 10th anniversary of the band’s final concert, CBC will rebroadcast “The Tragically Hip: A National Celebration” on Saturday. Band member Rob Baker expressed appreciation for the ongoing support and remembrance of Gord Downie’s legacy. Langlois shared his pre-show apprehension, which lifted when Downie’s infectious enthusiasm set a positive tone for their last performance.
Despite initial concerns about Downie’s health affecting the tour, the band witnessed his physical improvement throughout the farewell tour. Reflecting on the unexpected magnitude of their farewell show, Langlois remarked on the widespread impact that resonated with fans across the country.
While ruling out a reunion, the band recently released a new album, “Live July 22 – August 20, 2016,” featuring recordings from their final tour. Baker highlighted the band’s forward-looking approach and the healing power of music, citing personal experiences that underscored its emotional significance in their lives.