The Tragically Hip Top Forty Countdown: Song Eight - Pete from Toronto

Update: 2025-08-25

Description

Episode Summary

What happens when a music video director with a front-row seat to Hip history joins the countdown? This week, jD is joined by Pete from Toronto — the filmmaker who, alongside his creative partner Sean, brought to life some of the most iconic visuals in The Hip’s career. Together, they revisit the magic, the chaos, and the sheer serendipity of making the video for this week’s #8 song. Expect stories of grain elevators, red turtlenecks, and the moment the band finally found their visual identity.

About the Guest

Pete from Toronto is a veteran music video and commercial director who cut his teeth at Revolver Films in the early ’90s. His Hipstory runs deep: from documenting the band on the road in the U.S. to co-directing a trio of pivotal videos, Pete’s camera helped define how the world saw Gord and the boys at their creative peak.

Why It Matters

This isn’t just another fan perspective — it’s an insider’s look at the band’s transition into a new era. Pete’s stories highlight Gord Downie’s creative restlessness, the band’s willingness to embrace vulnerability, and how a handful of videos helpped to shape their legacy. For fans, it’s a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes energy that matched the music note for note.

Big Thanks

Massive thanks to Pete for digging deep and sharing stories that remind us why this band mattered — not just in sound, but in vision. If this episode made you want to revisit those videos, tell us your memories at tthtop40@gmail.com. Next Monday, we’re back with song #7 and another special guest.