Paul Langlois reflects on The Tragically Hip’s final concert in Kingston, Ontario, a decade after the emotional event. In an interview with CBC’s Eli Glasner on “The National,” Langlois expressed his ongoing struggle to fully come to terms with the significance of that last show. The guitarist shared his gratitude for the band’s impact on fans and the enduring legacy of their music.
The poignant night marked the farewell of lead singer Gord Downie, who bid adieu to a packed Rogers K-Rock Centre (now called Slush Puppi Place) in Kingston, performing iconic hits like “Ahead by a Century” and “Bobcaygeon” for the last time. The band, which had been together since 1984 and released 13 studio albums, concluded their touring journey with this memorable hometown show on August 20, 2016. Downie’s battle with terminal brain cancer, diagnosed in December 2015, sadly led to his passing a year later at the age of 53.
To commemorate the 10th anniversary of the band’s final performance, CBC will broadcast The Tragically Hip’s last concert on Saturday. Guitarist Rob Baker expressed his appreciation for the continued support and reverence shown by fans towards the band and Gord Downie. For Baker, the event is not merely a celebration but a solemn remembrance of a cherished career coming to an end.
Langlois recounted his initial unease and heaviness before the show, but his mood brightened when Downie exuded his trademark optimism during the soundcheck. Despite concerns about Downie’s health affecting his performance, the band members witnessed his physical improvement throughout the farewell tour. Looking back, Langlois and Baker acknowledged that they underestimated the profound impact of their final show until the days that followed.
Despite fans’ hopes for a reunion, Baker and Langlois firmly stated that The Tragically Hip will not be reuniting. However, the band recently released a new album, “Live July 22 – August 20, 2016,” featuring recordings from their 2016 tour. Baker emphasized the healing power of music, recounting a personal moment of reflection and emotional release triggered by a conversation with Downie about grief and the transformative nature of music in processing emotions.
