The ultimate Canadian band, according to Geddy Lee
From Leonard Cohen, Joni Mitchell, and Neil Young to Broken Social Scene, Canada has been the birthplace of countless influential musicians. Among these, Rush stands out as a power trio like no other. Comprised of Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Neil Peart, the band redefined progressive rock with their unparalleled mastery of their respective instruments. Their distinctive take on the genre earned them a devoted global following, solidifying their status as icons in rock history.
While Rush is undeniably one of the most accomplished bands of all time—overcoming countless obstacles and consistently refreshing their sound, albeit with varying degrees of success—they have always remained one of the most humble groups in rock history. Despite their immense talent and global acclaim, the trio never let go of their everyman nature, endearing them even further to their devoted fanbase.
The group has always stayed true to their roots, consistently showcasing pride in their Canadian heritage wherever their music has taken them. This steadfast connection has helped reinforce the widespread perception of Canada as a land of kindness and decency, with its people often regarded as more approachable and amiable than their southern neighbours.
This pride in their home nation and the fact that they’ve kept up with musical developments has meant that Rush are fully aware of just how exceptional Canada’s talent pipeline is. One group that frontman and bass whizz Lee is particularly fond of is The Tragically Hip, an alternative rock band who have an emotional but rootsy sound. They formed in Kingston, Ontario, in 1984 and are best remembered for the expressive poetry of late frontman Gord Downie, an incredible songwriter who ranks among the most influential artists that Canada has ever produced.
Tragically, he died of brain cancer in 2017, aged just 53. However, he left behind 13 acclaimed albums with The Hip and several cherished solo albums. He was also a lifelong philanthropist, throwing his support behind environmentalism and a champion of Indigenous affairs to the extent that in December 2016, he was honoured with the eagle feather for his consistent backing of the Indigenous peoples of Canada by National Chief Perry Bellegarde. As well as being a musician of a rare quality that aligned with the greats of the 1960s that inspired him, his importance encompassed much more than music; he embodied everything great about Canada.
The year before Downie’s heartbreaking passing, Lee spoke to CBC Music. In the interview, he discussed why The Tragically Hip might be the “ultimate Canadian band” and what makes them uniquely Canadian. He was in no doubt that “they’re certainly one of the greatest bands we’ve ever produced in this country.” Outlining their impact, he said that their popularity stretches from coast to coast in Canada and that they have an extensive back catalogue, with their piercing sounds amplifying the naturalistic essence of folk and blues. He also said he’s always found their music, from the sonics to Downie’s poetry, “very affecting.”
Describing their brilliance aside from being Canadian, the ever-objective Lee said: “And I guess the fact that a lot of their subject matter deals with locations in this country, particularly in my home province of Ontario, makes them uniquely Ontarian, but they’re just a great band, simply just a great band, whether they’re Canadian whether they’re from anywhere they would still be just as great.”
The Tragically Hip have always been a peculiar band in that they’ve never really gotten their dues outside of Canada. With a wealth of quality material and extensive consequences on the music of their country, there’s never been a better time to delve in.
