Rush

RUSH Rises Again: A Tribute to Neil Peart Amidst the Thunderous Roar

By Jason •
The legendary trio reunites as they honor their fallen comrade while embracing new beginnings on the road.

In a recent raw and revealing chat with Tom Power on "Q" via CBC Radio One, RUSH’s bassist and vocalist Geddy Lee, alongside guitarist Alex Lifeson and RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS drummer Chad Smith, opened up about the poignant new documentary "Neil Peart: No One's Disciple." This film delves into the epic saga of Peart's life, from his gritty beginnings as a young artist to his meteoric rise alongside RUSH, and the personal battles that marked his journey.

As RUSH takes to the stage once more, featuring the formidable talents of German drummer Anika Nilles and keyboard maestro Loren Gold, Lifeson shared his exhilaration. “It feels fantastic, to be honest,” he declared. Reflecting on the fears that initially plagued him regarding his physicality and performance, he admitted to a newfound love for the music and camaraderie within the band. “I’ve just fallen totally in love with it,” he confessed, showcasing his undeniable enthusiasm now that he’s back in fighting shape.

Geddy, echoing Lifeson’s sentiments, reminded listeners that while they may not have started out with the confidence they hoped for, Peart's spirit remains an ever-present force in their performances. “Neil’s presence is always there,” Lee asserted, as he spoke of the tribute they pay to their fallen brother during their shows, weaving tales of the past and the bond they shared through their music.

However, the journey back to the stage wasn’t without its shadows. Lee articulated the fears of aging and performance anxiety that loomed over them as they prepared to honor Peart’s legacy. “There was a lot of pressure on our shoulders to be as good, if not better, than we have ever been,” he noted, emphasizing the weight of living up to the expectations of not only themselves but also their loyal fanbase.

As the documentary captures the essence of Peart’s influence, it features a medley of interviews and reflections from other drumming legends, alongside Lee and Lifeson’s new live renditions of RUSH classics with an all-star lineup. Peart, who passed away after a fierce battle with glioblastoma on January 7, 2020, at the age of 67, left an indelible mark on the music world, and his legacy continues to electrify audiences.

The “Fifty Something” tour kicked off at Kia Forum in Los Angeles, marking a historic moment for RUSH as they embrace this revamped lineup. With a setlist culled from a staggering 40 tracks, each show promises a unique experience for fans across North America, reinforcing that while the past echoes loudly, RUSH’s future is as bright as the flames of metal they’ve ignited for decades.