The Tragically Hip Appointed to the Order of Canada

BY Calum SlingerlandPublished Jun 15, 2017

On the heels of making the Polaris Prize long list with their Man Machine Poem LP and Gord Downie's Secret Path, the Tragically Hip will now be recognized for their contributions to Canadian music by being appointed to the Order of Canada.

Canadian governor general David Johnston made the announcement today (June 15) that the band would receive the appointment "for their contribution to Canadian music and for their support of various social and environmental causes."

Downie will accept his insignia alongside fellow appointee Sylvia Maracle on June 19 in Ottawa as part of a presentation to recognize outstanding Indigenous leadership. Band members Rob Baker, Johnny Fay, Paul Langlois and Gord Sinclair will receive their insignia at a later date.

The Order of Canada was created in 1967 as one of Canada's highest civilian honours. It "recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation."

Other Canadian musicians who have been appointed to the Order include Jim Cuddy and Greg Keelor of Blue Rodeo, Joni Mitchell, Gordon Lightfoot, Sarah McLachlan, Neil Young, Rush, Oscar Peterson, Buffy Saint-Marie and more.

The Hip have most recently announced a new partnership with a medical marijuana company and another round of vinyl reissues. A trailer for the upcoming documentary surrounding their 2016 "Man Machine Poem Tour" also recently surfaced.

Read our Essential Guide to the Tragically Hip here.

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