Downie, the band’s lead singer and primary lyricist, said the band would do one last tour, but did not give a date.
Downie is 52 years old and has four children. He is married to Laura Leigh Usher,
He is known for songs like ‘New Orleans is Sinking,’ ‘Bobcaygeon,’ ‘Ahead by a Century,’ and ’38 Years Old.’ He also wrote the poetry book, ‘Coke Machine Glow,’ which was released as an album under the same name.
The Hip formed in Kingston and have since toured Canada from coast to coast to coast, as well as around the world. They have won 14 Junos and been inducted to both Canada’s Walk of Fame and the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
Downie was diagnosed with cancer in December. Despite the “very tough news,” the message read, Downie “has been fighting hard.”
“Through all of this, we’ve been standing by him. So after 30-some years together as The Tragically Hip, thousands of shows, and hundreds of tours … We’ve decided to do another one. This feels like the right thing to do now, for Gord, and for all of us.
“What we in The Hip receive, each time we play together, is a connection; with each other; with music and it’s magic; and during the shows, a special connection with all of you, our incredible fans. So, we’re going to dig deep, and try to make this our best tour yet.”
Details on the summer tour will be released this week.
The band thanked their fans for their continued love and support.
