In a social media post on Friday, the band said the decision was difficult, but they felt fulfilling the pledge would honor their “fallen brother and begin the healing process.”
“Gordy wanted his music to be heard and he wanted it to continue to exist,” the post said. “The outpouring of love and tributes for Gordie and his music has been immeasurable to us. We are hurting, his family is hurting, our city is hurting, Gordy fans all over the world are hurting. He loved you all.”
In the statement, Lewis’ father specifically said that “Gore would like the band to blow the roof off.”
Lewis, 65, was found dead in his Hamilton apartment on August 7. His son, 41-year-old Jonathan Lewis, has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with his death.
Lewis’ brother Brian told CTV News Toronto earlier this week that the family has fallen out, describing Gord and Jonathan as inseparable.
“We’ve seen Gord and Johnny love each other and be loyal to each other throughout their lives,” Brian said, adding that they’re each “dealing with their own demons.”
“My wife and I were involved in the situation between Jonathan and Gord until last week. There were always health concerns for both Gord and Jonathan. But things got worse in the last weeks and months.”
Brian said the tributes to his brother have been overwhelming. The comments below their tour announcement seem to show support for the decision, with many fans agreeing that Gord would like the show to go ahead.
Teenage Head are scheduled to perform in Winnipeg on August 18th, Saskatoon on August 20th and Oakville on September 10th.
