Rik Emmett reflects on Triumph’s 50th anniversary tour

After almost two decades of strained relations, Rik Emmett reflects on Triumph’s tumultuous past and forthcoming 50th-anniversary reunion tour with bandmates Gil Moore and Mike Levine. Despite previous reluctance, the trio is gearing up for a monumental return to the stage starting April 22 in Ontario, followed by a U.S. leg launching on May 13.

Emmett acknowledges the integral role Moore and Levine played in shaping Triumph’s success, underscoring their enduring vision that propelled the group to worldwide album sales exceeding 15 million copies. In a recent joint Zoom call with his bandmates, Emmett humorously reminisces about his initial ambivalence towards reuniting, highlighting the persistent dedication Moore has shown in keeping Triumph’s flame alive throughout the years.

Reflecting on the band’s storied history, Emmett emphasizes the indomitable spirit of Moore and Levine, which was evident even prior to his joining Triumph in 1975. The group’s commitment to excellence was strikingly displayed when the duo secured a loan to acquire lighting, staging, and audio equipment, along with a tractor-trailer, in a bid to cut costs for promoters and bolster their live performances—a true testament to their tenacity and resourcefulness.

The enduring appeal of Triumph’s music, underscored by hits like “Hold On,” “Lay It On the Line,” “Magic Power,” “Fight the Good Fight,” and “Never Surrender,” stands as a testament to the band’s lasting impact on rock music. Despite Emmett’s acrimonious departure in 1988, fueled by creative differences, the band’s legacy endures, with fans eagerly anticipating their upcoming reunion tour.

Revisiting their shared past, the bandmates look back fondly on the early days of Triumph, when their collective ambition and determination set them on a path to greatness. Emmett recalls the magnetic pull he felt towards Moore and Levine’s unwavering resolve, aligning with his own drive for success. Their collaboration was not only a musical endeavor but an adventure fueled by the thrill of taking risks and pursuing their dreams.

As Triumph gears up for their 50th anniversary reunion tour, the bandmates are excited to rekindle their musical partnership and share their timeless catalog with fans once again. The forthcoming tour promises to be a celebration of Triumph’s enduring legacy and a testament to the enduring bond between Moore, Levine, and Emmett.