Canadian musician Gord Downie passes away

CAIRO – 18 October 2017: Canadian rock musician Gord Downie, front man of the band Tragically Hip, has passed away at the age of 53 following a fight with terminal brain cancer.

A statement released by Downie’s family confirmed the sad news on Twitter;

Statement - https://t.co/vOTvlJ2jqA pic.twitter.com/Z6dHmr1xpM

— The Tragically Hip (@thehipdotcom) October 18, 2017

Downie was diagnosed with the cancer in December 2015, and announced it publically in May 2016. Downie had been part of Tragically Hip for over three decades, since 1984, releasing 14 studio albums, many of which topped Canada’s charts repeatedly. They broke the record for the most Juno Awards given to a single band, earning 16. So great was their popularity in Canadian culture that the band even made it onto postage stamps and was awarded the country’s highest honor, the Order of Canada.

Outside of music, Downie was also a keen philanthropist. He announced in October 2016 an album, accompanying graphic novel by artist Jeff Lemire and animated film called “Secret Path”, based on the real life tragic case of Chanie Wenjack, a young indigenous boy who ran away from a boarding school in Canada to return home, freezing to death.

Downie considered “Secret Path” to be his most important work, with all proceeds going to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

#RIP Gord Downie. You music spun in every locker room I've ever entered, and gave pride to every Canadian I've ever encountered. #WheatKingsOnRepeat pic.twitter.com/GA6b9pEQS3

— Matt Lashoff (@MattLashoff) October 18, 2017

So long, Gord. Thank you. 🇨🇦 https://t.co/hFG1ujudez

— Ryan Reynolds (@VancityReynolds) October 18, 2017

Heartbroken today. Few Canadians touched this country like Gord Downie. Thank you for everything you gave us. My deepest condolences. pic.twitter.com/00DdU6IVZn

— Doug Gilmour (@DougGilmour93) October 18, 2017