RIP Gord Downie
It’s a sad day for Canada, as an icon has died.
Every Canadian and probably a lot of Americans are familiar with the iconic band The Tragically Hip and its outgoing, dedicated lead singer Gord Downie. For decades this band has brought their smooth rock hits to their many fans. They started in 1984 in Kingston, Ontario, released 14 albums and an EP, and have won many awards including 16 Junos.
Downie’s diagnosis
In the last few years, however, the band has received a lot more attention as lead singer Gord Downie was diagnosed with an incurable form of brain cancer called glioblastoma. He was diagnosed in December of 2015 but the band didn’t share the news with fans until May of 2016. But Downie was not going to let this diagnosis take over his life. The band put together a tour and hit the road, bringing their beloved music all over Canada again. Though they didn’t specifically say it was the last tour they’ll do, a lot of the media reported it that way. Their last tour stop was their biggest back in their hometown of Kingston, and CBC broadcast the whole show live for the rest of the country to enjoy.
Today, though, the band members shared news of Downie’s passing yesterday, October 17th. He was 53 years old.
Statement – https://t.co/vOTvlJ2jqA pic.twitter.com/Z6dHmr1xpM
— The Tragically Hip (@thehipdotcom) October 18, 2017
The news was inevitable, and fans all over are mourning, including Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau who held a press conference to pay his respects.
“We are less as a country without Gord Downie in it,” said a visibly emotional @JustinTrudeau today https://t.co/Tuxg7KJiyU pic.twitter.com/b1zz467H5d
— CBC Politics (@CBCPolitics) October 18, 2017
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Whether you were a fan of The Hip or not, you had to respect Gord Downie’s passion for music and his flair for style. He music made a mark on Canada and on rock music, and his essence will live on.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Downie’s family and friends.