“I grew up on the lake and spent most of that time outdoors. As a musician, I travel widely around the country and talk to a lot of people, from all walks of life. That experience, combined with my rock and roll roots gives me something of an affinity for the underdog. In many ways, the environment is also the underdog - so, it's an easy fit.”

Canadian rock singer-songwriter, musician, writer, poet, and activist

Gordon Edgar Downie was a Canadian rock singer-songwriter, musician, writer, poet, and activist, best known as the singer and lyricist of The Tragically Hip. He fronted the band from its formation in 1984 until his death in 2017. Downie became closely associated with Canadian rock through his work with The Tragically Hip, where he helped shape the band’s voice and public identity. Beyond music, he was also active as a writer, poet, and activist, and is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Canadian music history.