Former Triumph guitarist Rik Emmett discussed his future touring plans in a recent interview with Dr. Music. The veteran musician has decided to step away from extensive touring due to health challenges and personal considerations.
“I had a cancer issue that I had to deal with, and I think I dealt with that. And I’ve got arthritis now that I’m sort of trying to figure out how to cope with it,” Emmett explained.
“The road becomes a place where it costs you a lot in the 22 and a half hours that aren’t the show, that you’re bouncing around and you’re in planes and trains and automobiles and hotels,” he continued. “And there’s all of that stuff. And I am at that age and stage where, do I need to do it for the money? No. Do I need to do it for the ego? I don’t think I do. I honestly don’t.”
“So that 75 to 90 minutes, man, there’s a part of me that I was wired and made to be that,” Emmett reflected. “But when I don’t go out and do it, and I’ve had several years of that now, I kind of go, ‘Eh, I don’t miss it.'”
This decision follows a remarkable career spanning several decades. Emmett has established himself as one of Canada’s most versatile musicians.
Triumph’s Legacy
Documentation from Emmett’s official biography reveals the impressive scope of his success with Triumph. The band achieved twelve platinum albums in Canada and two gold albums in the United States. This success established Triumph as one of North America’s premier rock acts.
Jeans n Classics records show that Emmett’s exceptional talent earned him the title of Best Lead Guitarist in a national poll in 1981.
Post-Triumph Evolution
Industry sources highlight Emmett’s successful genre transitions. His collaboration with Dave Dunlop in the Strung-Out Troubadours earned them Album of the Year and Duo of the Year at the 2007 Canadian Smooth Jazz Awards.
This versatility became a defining characteristic of Emmett’s later career. He explored different musical territories while maintaining his artistic integrity.
Recent Creative Endeavors
His official website documents Emmett’s continued innovation through various projects. He has released significant works including ‘DIAMONDS’ and ‘Ten Telecaster Tales.’
These recent projects showcase his ongoing creative commitment. They represent his artistic evolution even as he reduces his touring schedule.
