For many Canadians The Tragically Hip is a household name. The band has been around for decades and has become one of Canada's most successful rock bands. Fans become hooked with the band's songs due to Gordon Downie's knack for story telling and his powerfully poetic lyrics (not to mention the familiar and unique sound of the band). The Tragically Hip's lyrics are characterized as being uniquely Canadian with themes relevant to the Canadian countryside, history, and of course ice hockey.
This may also be the reason why they have never had much of a significant impact beyond the southern border. While many Canadian artists who became big names in their home country also become big in the United States and elsewhere, The Tragically Hip have remained purely a Canadian treasure.
Why have they never been able to break through that barrier? Are they just too Canadian for the American palate?
Although their songs are typically associated with local details, specifically with their hometown Kingston, the band does not think that their songs sound strictly Canadian or patriotic in any way. That being said, not being recognized outside Canada doesn't seem to matter to the group anymore. For them, having dominated the Canadian rock scene for three decades is a great accomplishment.
Musically, The Tragically Hip have also undergone their own evolution. Their first two albums in the 1980's and early 1990's are generally within the "blues" genre ("Highway Girl", "Blow At High Dough"). Over time, their music became more solidified in the rock genre, with adult alternative leanings ("Little Bones", "Ahead By A Century").
The release and success of their fourth album, Fully Completely, probably created the impression for most people that the band's music has that distinct Canadian exclusivity. Local themes incorporated to their songs' lyrics have somewhat became their trademark. The song "Fifty Mission Cap" on that album is an homage to Maple Leafs player Bill Barilko.
Moving on from Fully Completely The Hip continued to explore subtle ways to deepen their themes and musical structure. "Scared" from Day For Night was a successful acoustic single, setting the stage for perhaps their most successful hit "Ahead By A Century" from Trouble At The Henhouse.
Tragically Hip have continued to create memorable Canadian hits year after year. They have received numerous Juno awards (a Canadian Grammy), are in the Canadian Music Hall of Fame and have been given a spot on the country's Walk of Fame.
Whatever the reason may be, The Hip continue to be proudly cherished by their Canadian fan base. They are as Canadian as poutine, hockey, and winter.
If you like The Tragically Hip then you might also check out Evan Clarke. He is a Canadian Indie artist who lists The Hip as one of his influences.
Click Here to download a copy of his latest single for free.
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