Karl Tremblay, lead vocalist of award-winning Quebec folk rock outfit Les Cowboys Fringants, has died. Tremblay's bandmates announced his passing from prostate cancer in a statement shared late Wednesday (November 15). He was 47.
"It's with an indescribable sadness that we announce the passing of Karl," multi-instrumentalist Marie-Annick Lépine, guitarist Jean-François Pauzé and bassist Jérôme Dupras wrote on Instagram, thanking listeners for their love and support [translated from French]. "He was an exemplary warrior in the face of disease and a role model for us all."
Tremblay first shared news of his prostate cancer in July of 2022, telling listeners how he had been receiving treatment since first being diagnosed in January of 2020. In a video message, he explained that he would perform with Les Cowboys Fringants should his health allow.
Tremblay and Les Cowboys Fringants continued performing and touring as recently as this year. Notably, organizers of Quebec City's annual Festival d'été de Quebec extended their 2023 edition by one day after inclement weather postponed the band's anticipated set. The make-up date reportedly drew a crowd of 90,000 to the fest's main stage on the Plains of Abraham to watch the performance.
Formed in 1995, Les Cowboys Fringants have released 11 studio albums to date, beginning with 1997's 12 Grandes chansons. The group's most recent album is 2021's Les nuits de Repentigny. This year, a selection of the group's greatest hits and new material were featured in the musical comedy production Pub Royal, set to run at Montreal's Théâtre Maisonneuve until early 2024.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wrote on X (formerly Twitter) that Tremblay's "impact on Quebec and its culture is unmatched," expressing, "With his music, he entertained millions across the province — and with his voice, he inspired countless others. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, fans, and all who are mourning the loss of this icon."
Officials in Montreal and Quebec City have announced that flags will be flown at half-mast to honour Tremblay and the cultural legacy of Les Cowboys Fringants. The band captured Félix awards — annual honours celebrating cultural achievements in the province of Quebec — for Best Group of the Year in 2003, 2004, 2011, 2020 and 2021.
"It's with an indescribable sadness that we announce the passing of Karl," multi-instrumentalist Marie-Annick Lépine, guitarist Jean-François Pauzé and bassist Jérôme Dupras wrote on Instagram, thanking listeners for their love and support [translated from French]. "He was an exemplary warrior in the face of disease and a role model for us all."
Tremblay first shared news of his prostate cancer in July of 2022, telling listeners how he had been receiving treatment since first being diagnosed in January of 2020. In a video message, he explained that he would perform with Les Cowboys Fringants should his health allow.
Tremblay and Les Cowboys Fringants continued performing and touring as recently as this year. Notably, organizers of Quebec City's annual Festival d'été de Quebec extended their 2023 edition by one day after inclement weather postponed the band's anticipated set. The make-up date reportedly drew a crowd of 90,000 to the fest's main stage on the Plains of Abraham to watch the performance.
Formed in 1995, Les Cowboys Fringants have released 11 studio albums to date, beginning with 1997's 12 Grandes chansons. The group's most recent album is 2021's Les nuits de Repentigny. This year, a selection of the group's greatest hits and new material were featured in the musical comedy production Pub Royal, set to run at Montreal's Théâtre Maisonneuve until early 2024.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wrote on X (formerly Twitter) that Tremblay's "impact on Quebec and its culture is unmatched," expressing, "With his music, he entertained millions across the province — and with his voice, he inspired countless others. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, fans, and all who are mourning the loss of this icon."
Officials in Montreal and Quebec City have announced that flags will be flown at half-mast to honour Tremblay and the cultural legacy of Les Cowboys Fringants. The band captured Félix awards — annual honours celebrating cultural achievements in the province of Quebec — for Best Group of the Year in 2003, 2004, 2011, 2020 and 2021.
