As a working musician, there are a few things that I hold in high regard.  Authenticity, Respect, Accountability, and Support.  This is true for the musician, as well as the fan.  Accountability breeds respect, which increases support, which allows the creation of music to continue.  Staying true to yourself is paramount, as well as allowing others room to be true to themselves.  Challenging others to become better, greater, or simply, more.

At the very least, a Canadian Rock Band of 27 years, with over 10 albums, who has played thousands of shows deserved my attention for at least one night, even if I’m not a fan.  Especially since I did not need to leave my living room, or spend a dime.  It was so simple that I really had no choice, so I tuned in to the concert.  Surprisingly, I was blown away, but not by the concert itself.  Allow me to elaborate.

I was NOT blown away with how great it sounded, or how tight they were, or by how exciting they were to watch.  Because let’s be honest, there was a weird cloud hanging over the band.  The energy was positive, but dark.  The smiles weren’t happy, they were bittersweet.  There is a difference, and I could feel it.  However, what did blow me away was the authenticity, and honesty, of the show.  In my opinion, The Hip completely nailed it.  Not one moment was fake, or forced, and they accomplished everything they intended to.  It was a fantastic show to watch, and I’m glad I did.  It was all there, respect, accountability, support, and no shortage of authenticity.

Aside from the concert itself, Gord was presented with a very interesting and unique opportunity.  While he had millions of Canadians in the palm of his hand, eagerly awaiting what words were next to come, he had the chance to speak about anything he desired.  He chose to speak of the problems up north, and shed light on ongoing Aboriginal Rights issues, because that’s what he felt he needed to do. He has made every one of us accountable, in that we can no longer say “I don’t know anything about that”.  We must now educate ourselves and start saying “Oh, that’s what Gord was talking about”.  Gord stayed true to himself, and spoke truth, when many others would have just basked in the glory.  He is a man of integrity, and worthy of my respect, and support.  Every musician, fan, and human being had the chance to learn something from Gord, and if you missed it, you really missed out.  It will not hold the same weight strictly watching the recording.

This concert reaffirmed for me all of the things I believe are important in a career of music, and songwriting.  I will remember this concert for the rest of my life.  Not because of how good it was, but because of how real it was, and I think that is something I will carry forward into the future.

Will this change my opinion on being a fan of The Tragically Hip? Probably not.  But I will most certainly continue my career in music, being forever changed by a performance from one man, Gord Downie.  Thanks Gord.