The recent induction ceremony at Toronto’s Massey Hall saw four musical acts, including the Tragically Hip, entering the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame. The band paid homage to their late member, Gord Downie, who passed away in 2017 from a rare brain cancer. Guitarist Rob Baker shared a message from Downie, expressing gratitude for the honor.
Joining the 2026 class were Feist, the songwriting duo of Loverboy (Mike Reno and Paul Dean), and Roch Voisine. The event featured diverse performances from artists like Finneas, Our Lady Peace, and Jeff Tweedy, showcasing a range of musical genres.
During the ceremonies, a purple hat symbolizing Downie’s unique style adorned the stage as Allison Russell and other artists performed the Hip’s iconic songs. The evening also included tributes to Feist and Loverboy, with heartfelt speeches and energetic performances highlighting the impact of their music on the Canadian music scene.
In a touching moment, Voisine delivered an emotional duet with Isabelle Boulay, while Our Lady Peace closed the show with a dynamic rendition of the Hip’s hit song “Locked in the Trunk of a Car,” honoring Downie’s legacy. The event celebrated the rich musical heritage of Canada, with artists acknowledging the profound influence of their fellow musicians on their careers.