The Tragically Hip Celebration

It’s been a tough year for music lovers, with the loss of Lemmy, Prince, and David Bowie, to name only a few. Usually these sad departures come as a surprise. First, there is shock, bewilderment, then the grieving. But this one, this one we know is coming. We get notice. Oddly, it does not make it easier. It seems harder to stomach. The true gift The Hip are giving their fans is a chance to say goodbye, to savor one last wonderful evening in their company (if you’ve had the chance to see them live, you know it’s the best party in town), celebrate all they have given us over the years. It takes on an aura of going to church, something that transcends the mere daily grind. It has a tinge of attending one’s own funeral, for Gord is there, giving us his all, as he always does, for one last time. It provides a sense of community, for we are all strangers, but we are all family for this brief evening. CBC coined it perfectly; it’s a National Celebration. It’s a beautiful gift, it’s sure to be a great show, but let’s face it; there is a strange sadness overhanging. Goodbye to a true Canadian poet; no one can so aptly blend guitar licks with intricate and intriguing phrases, as well as camouflaged references to our history and our day to day. Thanks for everything Gordon Downie, please keep fighting. It's been a Long time running... and it's been a privilege.