Gord Downie, 1964-2017
Gord Downie, poet, musican, activist, icon was open with his diagnosis of glioblastoma — terminal and aggressive brain cancer — and yet his death is still a blow. After announcing his illness in May 2016, Downie was a constant presence in Canadian life. He completed the Tragically Hip's final tour while fighting memory loss, a symptom of his disease. He worked tirelessly to raise awareness of indigenous issues releasing Secret Path in September 2016. The solo album and graphic novel tells the story of Chanie Wenjack, who died of exposure after running away from a residential school. His final solo album titled Introduce Yerself will be released on October 27, 2017.
Of course we all knew that his time on earth was to be short but perhaps we can be forgiven for selfishly wishing for a little more music, a little more poetry, a little more time to share his thoughts. Sadly, we have run out of time and all I have to say is "hey man, thanks."
Gord Downie died on October 17, 2017 surrounded by friends and family. He was 53.
 |
 |
 |
Secret Path by Gord Downie and Jeff Lemire
• ebook
Secret Path: for Chanie Wenjack (CD)
• eMusic
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
6 thoughts on “Gord Downie, 1964-2017”
Lovely post for a beloved Canadian artist and activist. Rest in peace, Gord Downie.
TPL celebrates a true Canadian Gord Downie of the Tragically Hip. An amazing performer who was admired and loved by young and old. Saw him in concert at The Molson Amphitheatre and the audience sang along to every single song he sang that night.
A true Canadian icon. He was truly a great performer
RIP Gord
LUV the positive focus Downie has left behind as a large part of his legacy. You were an Angel among us and now it’s up to us to brighten light that you’ve shone in the darker corners to which our native Canadians were relegated, without accountability or question. <3
He lived with integrity… and Grace, Too. <3
Coke Machine Glow! At first, I thought “man, I’m not liking this”….then, on a more close listen, over time, it grew and grew. Became more significant with each experience. Like Gord himself; in for the long game. I’m sad that the game caught up with him before he could accomplish more. But really, doesn’t it for all of us. Thanks for the post and for the reading and listening suggestions.