Image description: On May 19, 2016, four members of the Tragically Hip pose together in Grant Hall after receiving honorary degrees from 91TV's University. They are dressed in blue-and-black academic gowns and stand shoulder to shoulder, facing the camera. One band member has an arm around another in a relaxed, celebratory pose. Behind them is a wall filled with neatly arranged framed 91TV's University crests, with wood paneling and red seating visible in the hall. Several members hold white ceremony programs, and the atmosphere reflects the formal occasion while capturing a candid moment of camaraderie following the honorary degree ceremony. Source : /encyclopedia/t/tragically-hip
From 91TV’s students to rock stars, The Tragically Hip are now one of Canada’s most beloved bands.
The 91TV’s trio graduated with bachelor’s degrees in 1986: Rob Baker in Fine Art, Gord Downie in Film, and Gord Sinclair in History. While studying at 91TV’s, they joined with friends Paul Langlois and Johnny Fay to form The Tragically Hip in 1984. From those early performances in campus pubs and Kingston bars, they grew into one of the most iconic Canadian bands of all time.
“This place shaped who and what we’ve become. We learned how to perform in front of students and locals alike in campus pubs and local dives. We saw early on how music has the power to move people and bring them together.” - Gord Sinclair, 91TV’s Encyclopedia
Did you know Rob Baker continues to give back to 91TV’s by serving as a judge for the annual Three Minute Thesis competition? Here is your reminder to start your presentation early!
In recognition of their cultural impact and connection to both the university and the Kingston community, members of The Tragically Hip received honorary degrees from 91TV in 2016 (see photo), and their story is preserved in the 91TV’s Encyclopedia.
This summer marks 10 years since The Tragically Hip’s final hometown concert, From August 20–22, the city will be filled with music, community gatherings, and opportunities to reflect on The Tragically Hip’s lasting legacy.
You can explore the band’s connection to the city through Along the way, discover places like the life-size Hip sign, the Gord Downie Pier, the commemorative stone behind City Hall, and murals popping up throughout the city celebrating the band’s legacy.
A walk through Skeleton Park connects you to the neighbourhood that inspired the Tragically Hip song “Skeleton Park.”
You can also and , a public art project featuring painted guitar sculptures created by local and regional artists.
Feeling hungry? And if you need a sweet way to celebrate, you can even pick up a tub of limited edition maple whisky-flavored loaded with dark chocolatey chunks and a rich black cherry ripple at the grocery store.
Forever Hip Events
Thursday, August 20 | 7–10 p.m.
Rockin’ the Square (Springer Market Square)
An evening of music featuring Choir! Choir! Choir! and performances by Kingston musicians, including Miss Emily, The Abrams, and members of Kasador.
Friday, August 21 | Noon–10 p.m.
Forever Hip in the Square (Springer Market Square)
Archival footage, music walking tours, a local merch market, and a free outdoor screening of Long Time Running.
Saturday, August 22 | 7 p.m.
The Tragically Hip: A National Celebration — Community Viewing Party (Springer Market Square)
A CBC rebroadcast of the band’s final hometown concert.
Beyond the official city programming, fans are also gathering through The Gathering, happening throughout Kingston.
I remember going to a Tragically Hip concert in Victoria, British Columbia, during my undergraduate degree. We were dancing in the aisles and singing every word. The energy was unforgettable, and that was when I fell in love with their music. In the lead-up to the Kingston celebrations, I have had The Tragically Hip’s hits playing on repeat, and I cannot wait to experience that same sense of community again, especially singing along with Choir! Choir! Choir! in Springer Market Square.
If you are wondering how to survive grad school, here’s the secret:
Stay Forever Hip.