The Tragically Hip holds a significant position in the realm of influential Canadian music. Often referred to as “Canada’s band,” the group originated as a rock ensemble among friends in Kingston, Ontario, in 1984, with members Gord Downie, Paul Langlois, Rob Baker, Gord Sinclair, and Johnny Fay. Over the years, they produced 13 studio albums, received numerous awards, and reigned as the best-selling band in Canada for two decades. Downie also released eight albums, primarily as a solo artist but also collaborating with other bands such as the Sadies.

Following Downie’s passing from brain cancer in October 2017, the band’s future was cut short. The enduring impact of The Tragically Hip’s music continues to inspire musicians and songwriters worldwide, nearly a decade after their final performance. This year, on August 22, marking almost a decade since their last show, The Tragically Hip is offering Canadians the opportunity to relive their 2016 “Man Machine Poem” Kingston concert through a special broadcast titled “The Tragically Hip: A National Celebration” on CBC at 7 p.m. local time. Fans can tune in on CBC-TV, CBC Gem, CBC Radio, or CBC Music’s YouTube page. Additionally, communities can register to host public screenings to ensure all enthusiasts can partake in the event.

In commemoration of this milestone, the CBC Music team dedicated part of the summer to ranking The Hip’s top 10 songs, presented below for fans to enjoy and offer their feedback on which songs resonate the most with them or any omissions they notice in the list.