Drummer is Neil Peart. Passed away earlier this year from cancer. Generally regarded as one of the best drummers of all time. A large amount of today’s rock drummers were influenced by him. Writes majority of the lyrics as well. Great band and incredible musicians.
MrDaChicken lol I was hedging myself as I didn’t say rock drummers. Hard to say he was better than buddy rich or a few other jazz drummers. And within rock, some think Bonham was better. Not me. I never once listed to a zeppelin tune and said, listen to those drums! It’s all about the guitar in my mind when listening to them. But with Rush, I’m mesmerized by how creative Neil was at making songs within a song all while still keeping time and beat. He was amazing. I’m a big fan of Gavin Harrison these days. He plays differently from Neil but has the same thoughtfulness when constructing his parts. Smooth player.
@@mpkelley20 Neil never referred to himself as "the best drummer in the world". He was always uncomfortable with that label. I don't think he failed to recognize his abilities, but he had deep respect and influence from a number of players over the course of his career and a keen understanding of his own strengths and weaknesses as a player. One that Neil respected all along, given that they were contemporaries, was Steve Smith of Journey, who is a monster fusion and jazz drummer as well as playing some of the biggest arena rock hits of the '80s. His books list many of his other favorite players, including Richie Hayward of Little Feat and Robert Plant's early solo bands, Stuart Copeland of The Police, Bill Bruford of Yes, King Crimson, and various solo projects, along with many others. Neil's understanding was so deep that in the early 1990s rather than resting on his laurels, he decided to retrain his entire approach to the drums when he studied with Freddie Gruber.
crimfan Yes. I read all his books and own the cds and dvds of his work with the buddy rich tribute. Those got me very much into big band jazz music which I had never paid attention to. And I own the dvd of a work in progress from test for echo days where he discusses his Gruber sessions in detail. And explains how he has to modify some techniques that he just can’t use very well. The wonderful thing about Neil was his passion about learning and exploring. It gave us incredible lyrics, music, books and interviews to forever cherish.
I was at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction when they where inducted. One of the most memorable moments was when Public Enemy came up to get their award and Chuck D stated. "thanks for the award but we all are here for 1 thing and we are going to scratch us some mean Tom Sawyer" Instead of jumping into one of their many great songs they instead did Tom Sawyer for their intro of their music performance.
Now that's respect. So radically different, yet they know greatness. Listen to Chuck D talk about enough artists and you'll figure out he gets music. It's why PE are among the 5 best hip hop groups ever.
@@davidtingley9978 "louder Than A Bomb" and "Black Steel In The Hour Of Chaos" Chuck was a lyrical Monster in those tracks...!!! Ahead of his time. I saw them in 87 with Whodini and Salt & Pepa
Welcome to one of the great Rock legends from Canada. This is three guys!! Neil Peart is the drummer and lyricist, he is considered the greatest drummer in Rock history. Sadly he passed away only months ago from brain cancer. Rush's lyrics were often very anti-authoritarian and so you are definitely getting their vibe. There are two powerful songs with impactful lyrics you might also like, ' Freewill ' and 'Witch Hunt'
@@abracadabra3033 also be careful with Fleetwood Mac stuff i think. People seemingly can only get a few of their songs out and then they get stopped by internet police if they wanna upload more by them. It sucks but FM are blockers
@@abracadabra3033 If you are feeling a fondness for Canadian rock, especially of the story telling variety.. I present to you... The Tragically Hip. Gord Downie out front.. " Thirty Eight Years Old." start there. Most Americans never heard of them.. shame..
@@abracadabra3033 Rush has a number of different eras but it's really hard to go wrong with Exit: Stage Left, which is a live album from around the time "Tom Sawyer" was released. I generally think the live versions of their songs are better representations than the studio versions.
Imagine being a 15 year old kid who's never been to a concert before and you're older neighbor at about 5 in the evening asks if you'd like to go with a bunch of other guys to a general admission concert to see a band called Rush and you've never heard of them before. Of course I begged my mother to go, I was allowed to go and the rest is history they became my favorite band instantly. It was the Permanent Waves tour with Spirit of Radio just blowing me away. How could three people put out that much quality sound it was just amazing to me. Stage presence for each was amazing.
Damn, you really nailed the lyrics! That's exactly what they were talking about, the freedom from convention and expectations from the establishment, whoever the establishment is. Great job!
I only discovered Rush around 18 months ago myself but they quickly became my favorite band. Not only are they three of the best musicians at their respective instruments, but thanks to Neil Peart they also have the most philosophical and questioning lyrics of any group out there. Throughout their 40+ year history they've always pushed the boundaries, both musically and lyrically. If you intend doing more Rush reactions I would suggest watching them live to experience their amazing musicianship, and also to experience their sense of fun when performing because Rush never took themselves too seriously.
lucky you discovered these dudes lol. Top notch stuff. I am lucky enough too live only about 300 miles from their hometown and have seen them multiple times. One thing with Rush every time you listen too the same song over and over you find something new. Canadian rock bands are killer.
Here ya got 40 years of stuff to get to. One of the greatest rock bands of all time. A trio of impresarios that were and are unmatched in their talents like this, may never come to us again.
You just stumbled into THE Diamond Mine of RUSH. When Rabid RUSH fans find out that a new listener/reactor has just embarked on a RUSH expedition, you're subscribers will quickly double. Enjoy the ride man, RUSH is a rare GIFT. They are deeply beloved around the world.
@@abracadabra3033 You'll likely soon discover that RUSH never played the RockStar BS Fame game. They were a band of supremely talented, intellectual gentlemen, without any need for huge ego's. They still are THE gold standard for professional rock musicians/artists. Also, they are funny as hell too! They never took themselves too seriously and always infused a healthy sense of humour into their shows, interviews, and films. This is just part of why fans love them so much. They are normal people that you could relate to and admire.
Some of the first music I ever got into as a kid is on this album right here. I'm glad you dig it, it's made me smile for years!! When Neil died this year, man it hurt. this music has been a piece of my life.
Being a hip hop guy I should not be surprised you have not heard of RUSH. What you have found is the best rock band in history, 40 years of brilliance! Their virtuoso musicianship is unmatched by anyone, and their lyrics are more than words, they are life lessons. Another great introductory song for a new listener is "The Spirit of Radio" I have watched your Band Maid reactions and know you appreciate them, RUSH has a lot in common with them but RUSH is next level! 🎸🥁🎸🎶🎶
Gerard I would say the same thing to you. There are countless bands who display as great of “virtuoso musicianship” and even greater. Rush are great, there’s no doubt about it. But to suggest there’s no other band that exceeds, or even meets, their level of musicianship is simply preposterous, especially in the world of jazz and metal.
Gerard I don’t like them but Dream Theater is just one example. Meshuggah in many ways. Tool in basically every way. Phish. Return to Forever. Between the Buried and Me. Necrophagist. There’s a long list.
Every time I see someone react to RUSH for the first time it breathes new life into the enthusiasm I have for a band that, for me, was love at first listen. Welcome to the family. You're on your way to an amazing catalog of music to explore. Thanks for the great video.
I've been a fan of Rush since the late 70's and find it remarkable that young musicians, from all kinds of backgrounds, just love them when they are exposed to their music. Cool!
Great band was fortunate enough to have seen them 5 times and was never disappointed! Check out the drummer Neil Peart live in Frankfurt Germany, his solo!
Nice reaction to a classic Rush tune. The trio are widely regarded as one of the best progressive rock bands ever. All three as excellent musicians. I had the same reaction the first time I heard this song, I had to know who this band was. I never looking back and it was the best investment of my time to get to know their music. Nothing just happens, and maybe it's a sign that gives you a reason to dive into their music. The album "Moving Pictures" where this song is from is fantastic. I would start there if you decide to follow your gut instincts. Cheers.
My favorite band of all time. I get so jealous when I see RU-vid reactors listen to Rush for the first time. Rush has given me so much joy in my life. They deserve to be in yours. Impeccable musicians. You have stumbled upon the diamond in the haystack. If your day sucks, I always grabbed a Rush album to save that shitty day. Give yourself the freedom to dive into their impressive catalogue. Rush are truly my gods among men.
That's so cool you were intrigued enough by hearing something in popular culture (a movie) that it incentived you to check out Rush! Three of the best musicians at their respective instruments, and so multi-talented and in sync with each other, AND with such intriguing lyrics ... well ... I hope you do yourself a favour and check out more. 🙂
I love coming across people (especially older people) who've never heard RUSH before! Most especially those people whose musical interests are outside the Rock/Metal genre. Their reactions to what "real" talent can do (& in the case of older people, the particular reaction of; "How could I have ~not~ heard them before now!" [grin]) is just amazing. [smile]
"Tom Sawyer" is more than likely their signature song. Ohhh what an incredible journey those three guys had though! They did their farewell, fortieth anniversary tour, "R-40" in reverse chronological order for their fans. If you choose to delve into this rabbit hole, I suggest you do it mostly from the beginning. I've seen a couple requests for "The Spirt of Radio". They opened every one of their many shows that I saw with that song. Best line of the song: "One likes to believe in the freedom of music but glittering prizes and endless compromises, shatter the illusion of integrity". Thank God Neil was still around to speak for their long overdue induction to, 'The Hall". Who remembers Alex's speech?
No matter how old the music is, its always fresh. Neil Peart on the drums is just enchanting and makes you lose yourself. It's tough. It's bad ass shit.
Great reaction! If you watch the official video (on your time if you wish), you will see this three-man band recording the song, and you may realize that you are watching three of the best musicians in rock. Thanks for reacting to this one. I would recommend "Limelight" and "Spirit of Radio" next, from this band.
Saw these guys in Charlotte (NC) and Greenville (SC), the second time was in Greenville in 2011 on their Time Machine Tour. Literally one of the greatest stage presence's of any band.
The actual video is pretty good. Gives you an idea of who's doing what. As an aside, don't listen to this cruising down the interstate. You'll be doing 80 before you know it.
Red Barchetta is the one that gets me in the most trouble :-) I've gotten two speeding tickets to that song. I am actually surprised it's only been two considering it came out in 81.
The thing with rush is that over their 40 year life span they’ve been a straight up hard rock band, then prog rock band, then hard rock band again, the 80s keyboard rock, then 90 s guitar rock, then 21 century heavy rock. The bass player, Geddy Lee, plays bass and keyboards at the same time (using his feet!) the guitar player, Alex Lifeson is incredibly versatile, and the drummer lyricist, Neil Peart, one of the best ever. You want to hear their greatness? Listen to la villa strangiato, an instrumental. Phenomenal.
Neil Peart’s solo in Frankfort is incredible! He was such a talented individual and one of the reasons for his impressive style is that he never stopped learning. He strove to learn other notable drummers' style, no matter what genre those drummers worked in. He incorporated those styles, making each a facet of his own style. He was truly born to be a percussionist and he applied himself to that calling fully. I believe that each member of the band did this as well. What a world this would be if each human being was nurtured to do the same!
One of Canada's most brilliant bands! You have to check them out live. Another Canadian band you should check out is The Tragically Hip. The song New Orleans is Sinking. The lead singer Gordon Downie passed from the same brain cancer that Neil Pert from Rush did. 😔 Cheers from Canada 🇨🇦
Great reaction to the best trio ever. Rush has passed the ultimate test,, the test of time...... Its gonna be fun watching you go in deep as we did years ago... Respect to you! New SUB!
What's up hip-hop Head! Liked this reaction. I grew up with RUSH. Always a big fan. Author of Tom Sawyer, Mark Twain. The lyrics of RUSH come from the drummer and are based in the writings of the writer, Ayn Rand. RUSH is Canadian, and there is only 3 people producing all that sound. So.e tidbits for Abracadabra. 😀
You know that the drummer was also the lyricist? The bassist/keyboardist/lead singer are the same guy, and the guitarist took it somewhere else. Hard to believe that 3 men made that much sound. You just discovered one of the greatest rock songs of all time, and your reaction was spot-on perfect. Keep doing what you do. Peace and love to you and yours during these crazy times.
You've been introduced to one of the Greatest rock bands in history. Any of their songs, whether it's studio or live is so dynamic. 3 masterclass musicians that makes you think that there's more. Here's a list of some of their songs to check out. Spirit of Radio Freewill Subdivision Cameras eye 2112 Working man Roll the Bones Red Borchetta Passageway to Bangkok Closer to the Heart Trees La Villa Strangietto (I might've misspelled) YYZ RIP Neil Peart : Drummer, Lyricist Geddy Lee : Bassist, Keyboardist and lead singer Alex Lifeson : Guitarist ,most underrated guitarist
Welcome to the family, my guy! Rush: making everyone else look lazy since 1972. There is such a rabbithole of musical nerdery waiting for you. Stay say.
Nice one, m friend and welcome to Rush. As a quick side: Mark Twain - Tom Sawyer. Rush is the greatest 3 man band ever and recognized as individually the most talented musicians on their respective instruments. You'll see a lot of info in comments on the Professor, Neil Peart - the G.O.A.T. He wrote the lyrics for most of the songs since he joined the band for their 2nd album. If you want a good view of them in action - react to Xanadu - Exit Stage Left video. You will not be disappointed but rather left in awe. Can't wait to see more from you on Rush!
@@abracadabra3033 RusH is composed of 3 compulsive perfectionist, and genuine good people that do not have any the ego trips that have lead to the demise of many successful bands. Truly GREAT musicians that are also truly great friends.... Resulting in some of the cleanest, tightest most amazing music ever made.
Nice reaction to a great band. I'm a drummer, and grew up listening to and playing Rush. Neil was incredible, and a really decent human being, as well. But Geddy Lee - the bass player - is also one of the best who ever picked up the instrument. Listen to what Geddy does on "YYZ" - some of the coolest riffs in the funkiverse.
I had the privilege of seeing Rush 49 times since 1982 when I was 12. I never missed a tour from then on until the final tour 5 years ago. 12-45 is a lot of life and I grew up with them and they grew older with me. Neil's drumming influence on me and nearly any other drummer is immeasurable. Just like any up and coming guitar player has to go through the Chuck Berry, Jimi Hendrix and Eddie Van Halen rooms, all drummers are going to have to go through the Neil Peart room. His influence and humility were both that large. the biggest tragedy for me aside from the horrible disease that took him was that he never had the chance to see either of his daughter's grow up into the women they either would have become or will become. I enjoyed this. Stay safe!
Alex Lifeson - Lead guitar Getty Lee - Vocals, bass and keyboard Neal Peart - percussionist and song writer Individually they are master technicians and supremely talented musicians. Collectively they are one and the excellence of execution. Their sound is extremely tight, crisp, clean, sophisticated and precise. They had been together since they were teenagers. They are the best progressive rock band to have existed. Three supremely gifted and talented musicians make music that sounds like a six piece band playing.
Saw them in '77, they became my favorite band, and stayed that way for the next 40 years. "Tom Sawyer" is not only probably their best song, but it's a classic, perfect rock song. The mood and emotions of the music match the lyrics. The music and the lyrics keep changing throughout the song, illustrating one of the key points of the lyrics. Even the ending is perfection. "Exit the warrrior.... he gets right on to the friction of the day", not ending but instead fading out with a marching rhythm, as if our protagonist is moving off into the distance to take on the next challenge. This is a timeless song that will ALWAYS be considered a great example of the artform.
I'm sure it's in the comments, but anything live from these guys are as good, if not better than studio. Their phenomenal commitment to their muscianship, friendship, and their band, shows in every live performance, spanning their 45 years together. Not ego driven and very humble, extremely talented and probably regarded as one of the most influential bands of our era, by other musicians. Another post said earlier, 'whoever your favorite drummer is right now, their favorite drummer is Neil Peart '. They have a lot of music in their catalog and it is easier for me to list the couple songs I don't care for vs trying to list our my favorites. I fell in love with these guys late in the game, around 95 and the library through that time was massive and I enjoyed every minute of getting to know these guys. Limelight was the song that convinced me to give them more of a listen. I always labeled them as one of those hard rock bands ..but that isn't what they were ever about. Three very gifted dorks from Canada... 💓💓
Neil Peart, the drummer, was also the bands lyricist. The lyrics were based on a poem; "Louie the Warrior " from Canadian poet and lyricist named Pye Dubois who was working with another Canadian band, Max Webster. The two bands were close and even recorded together once. Neil, reworked the lyrics and changed the title.
3 man band from Canada They are in the Rock N Roll hall of fame they have a couple dozen albums and even more hits through the years from YYZ(Instrumental),Bytor & The Snow Dog,2112(& part 20 minute song),Xanadu,La Villa Strangiato,The Spirit Of Radio,Red Barchetta,Frewill,Limelight,The Twilight Zone,Passage to Bangkok,Subdivisions,Marathon and many more also check out Lyricist/Drummer Neil Peart's Drum Solo live in Frankfurt Neil did a majority of Rush's Lyrics through the years and is considered The Professor The greatest Drummer (GOAT)R.I.P. Neil Peart Neil was a huge fan of Ayn Rand
You are spot on with the lyrics. The spirit of the character Tom Sawyer, by Mark Twain, embodied in a modern day individual. The drummer, who is so dominant in this song, a writes the lyrics as well. just 3 members in the band and al, that music !
