Remembering Gord Downie

Rick’s Rant for October 24th, 2017.

[@ChristopherCampbell]

Only Rick Mercer could deliver a eulogy like that 👍

[@jillitaknapp]

Christopher Campbell agreed!

[@FourTwenT]

That's racist

[@ChristopherCampbell]

the DESIRES you spelled "right" incorrectly 😏

[@michaelpark5681]

Rick Mercer is just as overrated as Gord Downie.

[@jaypicness]

Nigga my dad has arthiritis

[@charlesd9949]

Just when I thought I couldn't miss 'Gord from Kingston' more. Thank you Rick.

[@Hot_Roj]

Just WOW a Canadian icon giving a Canadian icon the best send off ever. Thank you Rick Mercer, you are just one more reason to be so proud to be Canadian

[@Hot_Roj]

I don’t judge people so harshly. Live and let live.

[@jakejutras2733]

BenjaminIsaacSound Are you seriously saying that gay people can't be trusted around children? What the actual fuck is wrong with your head?

[@jakejutras2733]

BenjaminIsaacSound LMAO ahh ok so you are just a troll, gotcha. Good day to you.

[@DozIT]

Hate it when I am late to the party and the troll has deleted all their comments, now everything is just out of context!

[@akillersandwich8360]

People have always told me that I give rants like Rick Mercer....definitely taking that as a compliment

[@bcpr9812]

"Your friend Gord called..." This is how we all feel, listening to him: like it's our friend Gord, calling us.

[@RibbonVintageGirl]

"... *and he do that because he listened to people like my dad.* " What a Great way to end a Great tribute! Gord Downie will always be missed 🌹

[@patriciatschritter2591]

Rembering Gord Downie today 2 years since he passed away I never get tired of Playing his music 🎶 loved him as if he was my friend. I miss you Gordie ❣

[@nursemarn]

What a great story. It shows how humble he truly was and how grateful and kind he was. A true Canadian.

[@jenelaina5665]

I rewatch this every time I remember him when it's not listening to his music. One of my favorite little stories about anyone because it says so much. Thanks Rick. RIP, Gord. Thank you too.

[@grandenauto3214]

2am laying in bed, just thought of gord and had to watch this…

[@jenelaina5665]

@@grandenauto3214 ♥️

[@kenmcnamara7143]

Gord Downie was a proud Canadian. Humble even in his greatness. Knowing that Gord existed, makes me proud to be Canadian.

[@littlebigjohn69]

im a proud canadian living here for over 30 years from the hardship of south america , giving this guy such coverage like this shows canada is lacking talent , please enough of this . you guys are like sheeps, bryan adams for example would be up there as canadas greatest export in music but the tragicly hip are you kidding me.

[@kenmcnamara7143]

john ortensio I guess you haven't figured it out yet what it means to be a Canadian.

[@littlebigjohn69]

Ken I figured it out to be Canadian first u have to be pacifist then a follower of socialist views then depend for others to do your thinking then follow. Ken I've been in this country for over 30 years from nothing and help others when in hardship don't tell me about this country and it's getting to be like Cuba here nothing like when I arrive. Look who Canadians elected a drama queen who doesn't give a crap about hard working people and praises a singer and cries in the media.

[@NPTNReddek]

john ortensio bro you obviously don’t know this man. I’m a bit young but still know how much this man meant to Canadian. So respect him and stop trying to stop us from remembering him because he’s a icon

[@johnfive2440]

Ken McNamara NOT being a hip fan...that's for sure!!

[@rhijulbec1]

More tears. 😢 😢 I live in Kingston. Met the Gord and Rob once in a local restaurant. Gracious, kind and just wonderful to chat with. I was expecting my youngest. Gord was curious if it was my first, if I cared if my child was a boy or girl. I mentioned she was my third but my second had died at 8 weeks of age, so I was really worried tbh. He and Rob Baker both hugged me and told me they'd be hoping for the best for my child (she's 28 now!). I know it was forgotten by them not long after but damn, it made me feel better! Great guys all. My heart hurts for his family. 💔 💔 💔 And for me.

[@IglooGirl1]

rhijulbec1 beautiful :) thx for sharing. I love reading these awesome stories of Gord and the boys. Xo

[@davidwright8371]

rhijulbec1 wonderful story thank you...my heart still hurts.

[@Mook10k]

I live in Kingston aswell, so the tragicallyhip was a impact on my family

[@michaelpark5681]

Aww that's such a sweet story. Still a shitty band though.

[@sedase5319]

does verina like eating dog food while I fart in her face

[@patrickdawe9885]

In Violet Light. my father, being a Newfoundlander himself, heard me listening to the album and excitedly pulled me out to the map on the wall of the den and started explaining all the lyrical references being made to these locations. This is a great memory for me, that was lost until Mercer's anecdote.

[@kathleenwildman9427]

This reminds me of my little Gord story. My sisters kids went to the same school as his and I always avoided him when I went to drop them off or pick them up. (I didn't want to seem like I was fanning out or bugging him.)One day we just sort of came face to face accidentally and I just blurted out"I am less friendly to you than any other parent here because I don't know what to say!" He smiled and said, "Well at least you admitted it. That's a good first step." We had a lovely chat for a few minutes about film and music. He said, "Goodbye Kathleen"as I left and I didn't see him again until a month or two later. When he saw me he said "Hello Kathleen" like we were old friends. Asked me what I was up to and seemed like he actually gave a damn what my answer was. That has stayed with me. He remembered my name. What a great guy. I love what Rick said about how he will miss him like he knew him well. That's how I feel.

[@abumuad]

I'm not Canadian, but he seemed to have touched the life of everyone in Canada. I am glad I moved here, truly amazing and inspiring people.

[@johnfive2440]

Yousif Ezzo not even CLOSE to touching all Canadians....they were fucking bad lounge singers at best, and that's not being mean...it's being HONEST

[@grege5074]

as long as you're here, you're Canadian - welcome

[@abumuad]

John Five just responding to witnessing how many people were touched by Gord. I don't know much about his music, just that the man seemed to be loved. That's all.

[@abumuad]

Greg E Thanks

[@johnfive2440]

Yousif Ezzo he was loved by a very VERY few, but some of us Canadians would try and have you BELIEVE it was many....shit most so called fans only cite their oldest music anytime you ask them about good songs, and no one bought their last ohhhhh I don't know 8 albums

[@EVE101Patt]

watching this 5 years later still brings tears to my eyes.. you live on in our hearts gord f'in downie 🖤💜🧡

[@ChorusArtists]

Beautiful story, Rick. Those kinds of conversations informed all Downie's work. "...His great grandfather worked for Goodyear, he'd see the blimp on Sundays, wonder what the driver knew about making rubber tires...." RIP Gord

[@catherinedutfield7969]

Wonder if he knew my Grandfather. He also worked at Goodyear for ever.......

[@IglooGirl1]

Omg I love this story, I smiled during your talk and then I cried at the end. I miss him like I knew him too. That story perfectly sums up why we all love him. Thank you for sharing it, Rick. Another wonderful thing to think of when we think of Gord. Love to his family, especially his kids.

[@thepriest98]

Coming up on six years since Gord passed. I've always remember this story so I came back to hear it again.

[@sink1984]

Just perfect. Best rant ever!

[@jordanthistle2360]

Ou that hit me right in the feels. For gord to take the time to talk to his father on the phone like a normal person. This was what being a Canadian is all about, gord was the true embodiment of a Canadian, and how we should all strive to be more like him.

[@michaelcoady]

This is awesome, Rick ... what a beautiful memory and perfectly tied to what made Gord special to so many ... his love for Canadian culture, his artistic, gentle soul, his curiosity and ability to make small stories so emblematic.

[@noapplicablelabel]

Absolutely beautiful story that really speaks of the man

[@alfiam1]

I'm from the little town of Isle aux Morts that Rick is talking about in this rant. We were honored that Gord mentioned our town in his song " Dire Wolf" from the "Voilet Light " album. Love the "Tragically Hip".

[@ConnieCrosby]

Gord was that neighbour we're all gonna miss.

[@spooley]

His neighbours would agree. His older brother Mike (yes, he exists, just as in the song) told the CBC that Gord was known to don full goalie equipment in the house and cross the park to join a group of kids playing hockey. He called himself "The Mystery Goalie" and until Mike's story came out the kids likely had no idea who they had been shooting on. Thanks for the memories, Gordie baby. R.I.P.

[@jyoung6905]

We are all a little worse off without him walking amongst us. Rest Easy to the Legend that is Gord Downie.

[@stellabar623]

Thank you for sharing this story. Very heartfelt.

[@stevenwest5685]

One great Canadian remembering another. What a tribute... to remind us so vividly of Gord’s humanity, humility and authenticity. Thank you Rick.

[@MusicLoverMe6974]

Thanks for making my eyes well up AGAIN! Great story Mr. Mercer. RIP Gordie baby... You were a true gentleman.

[@BigKarl519]

Beautiful story Rick. I will miss him, Canada will miss him, the world will miss him.

[@FerFer1958]

Amazing story. Such a real person Gord was. It really explains everything about Gord. I laugh out loud the 1st time I watched the video and I was tearing up the 2nd and 3rd time because that wonderful person is gone. I'm from Peru but I can appreciate how special and loved by everyone Gord was.

[@Chuck-PK]

Bobcaygeon has been and will always be my favourite Tragically Hip song. Growing up my family had a trailer/cottage on Buckhorn Lake just a short boat ride from there. It's such a beautiful, friendly town and as a kid the locks were just so fascinating to watch! "the constellations reveal themselves one star at a time." -Gord Downie RIP

[@cranneymusic]

This is still quite honestly the best tribute. I mention this clip often when talking about Gord. Thank you again.

[@chauncemce8358]

Rick Mercer, is a canadian icon in himself! We may have sadly lost Gord, but im happy we have Rick he brings comfort to the Canadian television scene!

[@michellejante6223]

What a beautiful story / memory! Gord Downie and The Tragically Hip have been in my life (music), heart and soul since the mid / late 80's I too was honored to meet and talk with Gord and the rest of "The Hip" back in 88 and 94 after their concerts here in Pennsylvania, Usa. Gord spoke as if we were friends from way back and made me feel so comfortable ♡ He and my brother had a nice long conversation over a book my brother told Gord about and that he was now interested in getting :) The whole band was beyond awesome and so very down to earth people... They all signed my concert flyer which I have tucked away.... I know Gord was being silly but this is what he wrote..... "I'm sick, your a nurse.... Help Me... Gord" It's not just your Beloved Canada that Truly and Deeply Loves and Misses You Gord!!! Rest In Peace Sweet Gord!

[@carolynpedoniquotte9127]

This story makes me smile. It is so nice to hear. This is what Gord Downie and the Hip are all about. They are every day regular people, "Canadians" just like the rest of us. Great story, Rick!!

[@thespammerhammer]

Isle aux Morts, Rick Mercer, Gord Downie and Rick's dad. How Canadian is that! Rick Mercer, every rant is amazing, this one touched deeper and far more profound that any. Gord from Kingston, "The man among the stars". It was Bobcaygeon and more I hold deep into my heart. Rick's dad, he listened to you and many others. What an honor that must be.

[@CrazyFunnyCats]

Thanks Rick 👍we saw 3 live HIP outdoor gigs in alberta . Another roadside attraction ✌️😎best time ever Rip Gord 🌹✨one in a million✨. May🐝a billion more like ✨

[@daveouderkirk8470]

Another tremendous story underscoring the humility of a man we will all miss dearly. Thank you Gord, thank you Rick.

[@olympiawa]

Just wanted to say, the intro music to Made In Canada was my first introduction to The Hip. Ever since then, I’ve loved them. In 2016 when I heard that they were doing their last tour I wanted to go. I really wish I had been able to. I don’t want to miss out on things. Life is about experience and taking advantage when you have the opportunity to is important. Looking back and thinking, I could have done that but hadn’t is unfortunate. Life can be short and we should live it to the fullest. Bless you, Gord.

[@stevepowell6503]

I wish I would have been able to see them live. Unfortunately, like most in the US, I hadn't heard of them. Netflix suggested the documentary about their last tour. Gord had already passed away the first time I heard them. Since then I listen to them constantly. For a country with a relatively small population, Canada produces a ridiculous number of great musicians. The Hip deserved to be more popular in the States, but there is something very Canadian about their best band being known only by them.

[@JonnyTightLipzs]

The sun's a light bulb and the moon is a mirror There are times when you can see both the bulb and the mirror See the bulb and the mirror And that's the morning moon, yeah Say those little things that don't make anyone feel better. -Gord

[@mrgarybusey2052]

Gord Downie will all ways be remembered in Canada's heart. He was a true patriot to the maple leaf and his people. As a Newfoundlander, I can agree with Rick. I loved his music and passion. May he rest in peace.

[@johnfive2440]

Josh Simms not in Canada's heart....just a few of you fucking losers, not more and much less

[@mrgarybusey2052]

John Five Thats all right because no one cares about you either :)

[@jaimemariebrennan2048]

Nothing to do with Gord as we all have our memories of him, but on August 19, 2006 I was eating breakfast before getting ready to get married, when there was a knock on my mothers front door. It was Ricks dad delivering Blueberries. He came in had some bacon and wished us well on our big day. His Dad was very nice and I can see why Gord took a liking to him.

[@7863348]

Rick. You, your dad and Gord are class acts. Thanks for this. Paul in Bay Roberts.

[@nelsonmuntz6915]

That is one of the most awesome stories I have ever heard, thanks for making my day Rick

[@eafnamaste]

Beautiful story. Thank you so much for sharing ❤

[@HFXmermaid]

This is so true, and I think it really embodied what so many Canadians are like.

[@anonanomalli]

Rick Mercer that's a wonderful tribute. Yes, we do miss him.

[@tpbbubbles21]

This is an amazing story, Just goes to show how amazing Gord Downie was. I know I'll miss him

[@Stokedforsaturday]

This is great. We'll all miss him. Also awesome to see this on youtube trending!!

[@augurseer]

Ty Rick. As always. Reminding us how to be Canadian. Good old Newfoundland. Love the rock!!!

[@SarahCrookall]

Hard to believe it's been a week. It simultaneously feels like just yesterday and an eternity. His body of work, passion and active citizenship are inspiring to what it means to be a Canadian.

[@johnfive2440]

Sarah Crookall no it doesn't

[@jakejutras2733]

John Five can I just ask you who took a piss in your cereal this morning? I decided to take a look at the comments and I've noticed that you and another irrate man keep posting things like you just did on others comments. Why do you feel the need to do that? Why argue with people who have a differing opinion about a subject matter that is completely fucking pointless.

[@jenniferwood-outhwaite5199]

Just watching this for the hundredth time. So much about this pulls at heart strings.

[@cineselena]

We were so fortunate to have Gord, hard not to get emotional through this.

[@lrimmf]

Thank you for sharing this story, Rick. I never met the man, but I too miss him so much you'd think we were best friends.

[@r.a.degagne4692]

Really glad I clicked this video. Thank you for posting. Rest peacefully, Gord.

[@kateellison5360]

:'-) That's a beautiful story, Rick - thank you for sharing. This is why Gord was a national treasure, and why he will be so sorely missed.

[@toddblenkhorn7675]

This is such a good story. When I was in high school hey student in my co-op class with me how to placement at an entertainment company, basically being a roadie and setting up shows. He was in the owners office one day and the owner was on the phone with Gord, the owner asked if my friend would like to say hi to somebody and it was Gord he talked to my friend for 10 or 15 minutes just asking about himself in school and encouraging him to work hard towards his goals. He just seemed like such a regular guy, taking an interest in other people even though he didn’t know them. I don’t think we will have another one like him.

[@edawelkeim]

Rick you are a true Canadian. Thank you.

[@roddwayne8792]

Thanks Rick. We have lost a treasure. Stay safe.

[@littlebigjohn69]

i feel sorry for his suffering but please give me a break. this guy is a singer in a rock and roll band and people are like sheeps , the only singer who deserve this admiration would be a john lennon not someone outside of canada wouldnt know him from a plumber. canadas greatest band are you kidding me, how about bryan adams who everybody knows in the world. the only reason he is given this coverage is because he is indeginous indian. i know a very good friend of mine who just passed away a day after downey and you know what he helped a lot of unprevileged kids and from his success in business helped a lot of families in a bad state of economical situation and all he got was footnote in the paper.

[@littlebigjohn69]

your typical canadian who has no taste in real music . yes hundreds of thousands liked that kind of music believe or not their are hundreds of thousands like to smoke is that mean everybody should smoke . you sound like a typical liberal as long you follow its ok . how about real heros who risk their lives so you can enjoy that crap of music, i say each its own buy given this coverage is beyond normal. i feel for his suffering of the terrible disease but going on tour on the basis your going to die is simple selfish knowing their a number of people like you who fall for that scam. name me another artist in the world that did that selfish thing.only a canadian knowing sheep like you would fall for that.

[@Ben_Gaming]

john ortensio Do you think denouncing a dead man will help your friend get recognition, the man made great lyrics and if you are fit to criticize I would like to hear your unique achievements

[@johnfive2440]

Stupid 12 year olds no HE didn't, he had shit lyrics and a shit career....they were a glorified BAR band and nothing more

[@Ben_Gaming]

John Five sure, tell me who your favourite musician is then

[@justinhunstad1760]

The world lost a real talent and a great Canadian when Gord passed. What a shame.

[@katbarber7196]

Rip Gord thank you for years of great canadian music one of canadas great entertainers ypu will be missed your music will always live on welcpme on my campsite boat or cottage anytime god bless

[@ketfarns4497]

How do people give a thumbs down to a cool personal story about a Canadian icon and Mr. Mercer like that?!

[@borntobemild-]

Thank you for sharing this profound story Rick

[@paulettemelanson528]

another great story about this wonderful artist

[@liveandwrite]

Thinking of Gord Downie today due to the passing of David Milgaard. In just a few verses of Wheat Kings he made that sad piece of Canadian history completely alive to me.

[@Shekinah7]

yep... endless stream of great stories. Feel proud, sad and humbled, also like I need to be generally kinder.

[@robynharris7296]

Fabulous, Rick! You are the best!

[@tejas57]

beautiful story. brings a tear to my eye

[@deadfr0g]

Oh man, that is heartwarming and hilarious. Thanks, Rick.

[@NewMessage]

That's 42 things we all share. * tips an imaginary hat *

[@patrickdawe9885]

Fingers and Toes. I love that, 42. because, we all, in fact, care.

[@Maverick5588]

Very very moving story. Nearly brought me to tears

[@randomdude6572]

Beautiful... RIP Gord. Thanks for sharing Rick.

[@collegeboyrob]

RIP to one of Canada's Greatest Legends.

[@TheCanadianBubba]

Rest easy Gord, from Kingston... Thank you for sharing that Mr.Mercer

[@christyb039]

I loved this rant so much. And you are right. We all will miss him like we knew him well

[@elainekrahn3311]

Great piece Rick, honouring a great man!

[@davidson2004fatboy]

GOD BLESS YOU Gord ! RIP Gord and Chanie Wenjack

[@maxscameraguy]

I wouldn't say greatest Canadian band ever, but up there

[@freememberjp]

Thats what made Mr Downie so great. He'd be happy to be remembered as the lead singer of The Tragically Hip and just and happy to be remembered as Gord from Kingston.

[@joeblack8155]

Thank You Rick beautiful story

[@Mike-ck6jh]

Thanks Rick for the story about Gord and your dad.( All the best - from YYT)

[@conorwhyte2053]

Great story Rick. I loved it!

[@villain3131]

My ode to Gordie and the Hip Those 29 times I saw you , they seem so distant now From Thunderbird the first time to the last time last year wow On Seabird Island with my Susie Q , your beard was long , you wore white At Dicks on Dicks on Richards , we danced the whole night The three in a row at the Coliseum , I knew I’d be ok I remember how I snuck in , ha ha , I got away Under the Rail in Seattle , on the stage I shook deranged, You took me for a spin that night , I’d never be the same I got Paul’s set list , Sand Rubies opened up Diving off the stage , I knew I had fucked up 20 years later when you signed It , giving me such a grin I collected a few more after that , dam what a win Your shows were always amazing , I guess that’s why my ears are ringing now That night at the Commodore Ballroom , the floor bounced up and down Gord I’ll never forget you , I’ll need a song one day Long Time Running is the song for me when they put me in my place What you told us about Canada , my history lessons from liner notes From Milgaard to Hugh MacLennan to Tom Thomson in a boat You’ve given me many memories , lots I’ve thought of today Memories I’ll never forget , I’m sad you’ve gone away You’ll never be forgotten , I will make sure of that To Rob , Paul , Johnny , Gord and Gord I wish you could come back The Tragically Hip We love you ❤️ Thanks for everything , Frankie #thetragicallyhip #gorddownie #thankyouforthemusic #thanksforthememories

[@Phlebas]

That was a wonderful story. Thank you, Rick.

[@bryankowch4545]

Looking back on our trips to Kingston to visit my aunt Della I remember some trucks and vans showed up across the street and aunt yelled at these guys not all night eh they said ok and at midnight they came over and I almost shit I'm self cause it was the tragically hip 😊what great people best moment ever

[@AnneCampbell]

Thank you , what a great story !

[@gerardgrywacheski1418]

Well said Rick, Gord Downie will be missed!!!!

[@Corey-wx8jj]

Perfectly said Rick, we live in such an awesome country

[@bigfatbaataed]

John Five, how many people on the planet are going to miss you when your gone, probably able to count them on one hand...

[@martyreking5487]

And we listened to him...and still do .

[@samsquanchoverland]

you made me tear up...beautiful story !

[@alexigiguere9890]

Rick always has a fucking great last line in his rants. I had goosebumps.

[@rogerauger7766]

Amen. Gord will be missed.

[@cover_hit]

Super! Hi from Russia! i am is accordion man in Russia.

[@lynnsmith4230]

Very well said Rick. Your story was beautiful and thank you for sharing.

[@timhortonscoffee2306]

Instantly my favourite Gord story.

[@jerryoutlaw3396]

I love this!! Thank you, Rick.

[@ryahballantyne7764]

This got me feeling emotional loved his music so was my pops he always played there songs when we went for drive (tragically hip)

[@hazelmaylebrun6243]

Wow. Gord from Kingston. I was in Toronto in 1998 as an aspiring songwriter taking in the North by Northeast songwriter's conference. After taking in workshops and trade shows during the day, my friend and I wandered through Kensington Market checking out all the artists playing at the various venues. We walked into the Legendary Horseshoe, which I had never seen before, and when I crossed that checkerboard floor to go to the Ladies room, somebody bumped into me (I'm short) and his beer spilled on my head. Not all of it, but enough. I hear "Oh sorry." I look up and Gord from Kingston has just baptized me in beer. Well... I wish I had known what to say other than the very Canadian, "It's ok. Excuse me." Uh... yeah. He was good at understating his stature because he didn't seem to think he had any more worth than some stranger walking across a bar room floor.

[@dabadguy7882]

Can you just imagine? Getting a phone call from Gord Downie AND get artwork from him??? Awesome story Rick!

[@frankabignale8373]

rick was holding back a tear at the end...