Episode Summary

This week, jD welcomes Jeremy from Buffalo — frontman of The Strictly Hip — for a conversation that blends fandom, performance, and a lifetime spent studying Gord Downie’s words. From the band’s early days to their lasting legacy, Jeremy shares how The Hip became his passion, his career, and his way of connecting with audiences on both sides of the border.

Together, Jeremy and jD unpack what it means to live inside these songs, to carry them night after night on stage, and to explore the magic of The Hip’s catalogue from a fan’s and performer’s perspective.

About the Guest

Jeremy Hoyle is the lead singer of The Strictly Hip, the Buffalo-based tribute band that has been celebrating The Tragically Hip’s music for decades. With hundreds of performances under his belt — including symphonic collaborations and cross-border tours — Jeremy has built a career around keeping this music alive and vital for fans everywhere.

Why It Matters

This episode digs into what it means to be more than a fan — to be a steward of the songs. Jeremy reflects on his first encounters with The Hip, the spark that drew him in, and how he channels Gord’s spirit in performance while still making the music his own. It’s about memory, community, and the ways we keep the band’s voice resonating long after the final encore.

"These songs aren’t just something you play — they’re something you live inside of. Every night, they mean something new.”
Closing

A huge thanks to Jeremy from Buffalo for joining the Countdown and sharing his story. If The Tragically Hip have changed your life too, we want to hear your Hipstory. Send us a voice memo or a message — your story might make it onto a future episode.

We’ll be back next Monday with Song #6 and another unforgettable conversation with a fellow fan.

Connect with Us

• Join the TTH Top Forty Facebook Group
• Follow us on Instagram @tthtop40
• Email us: [email protected]
• Website: dewvre.com/tthtop40
• YouTube: youtube.com/@dewvre1974

Don’t Miss

• Sunday Evening Jam – live every Sunday night with jD & Sara J
• The Ultimate SuperFan Search – nominations open until Aug 25!
• Tickets for A Celebration of The Hip for ALS – Oct 4, Toronto
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Meta Description (SEO):

jD is joined by Jeremy from Buffalo, lead singer of The Strictly Hip, to talk fandom, performance, and the lifelong impact of The Tragically Hip’s music on both sides of the border.

Tags: Tragically Hip podcast, Gord Downie, Canadian rock podcast, Hip fandom, The Strictly Hip, Tragically Hip tribute band, Tragically Hip countdown.

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