Watching this back in 2009 was what inspired me to become a live sound engineer. Here we are all these years later. I’ve worked alongside some of rush’s crew members and crossed off a LOT of things on my career related bucket list. To whom ever made this documentary happen: thank you. Shout out to Brad and Brent.
Howard Ungerleider was a HUGE part of my inspiration and beginnings into the journey to become a touring Lighting Director. Used to visit him at F.O.H. back when I was a kid in the late 70's and early 80's ..... bumped shoulders with him many a times yaers later as a stagehand, then at festivals while out on some of my first tours thru the late 80's and ealry 90's. Come 1992 and I was at VARI*LITE Dallas office doing my training as a opertaor/tech and he just happen to show up one day for a demo. He invited me out to lunch and we sat and talked for awhile. Still reach out to him everytime I'm in Toronto. Rush ALWAYS had great people around them.
It's very bittersweet watching this. It's fascinating to watch, but also deeply saddening. I miss our friends. I hope all of these incredible artists behind the scenes are doing well and still having fun. RIP, Neil.
As a guy who used to earn a living in concert production and mixing foh and monitors I really appreciate this film showing the good, bad and ugly angles of what it takes to put on a big show. It truly takes a village and everyone involved is very important to pulling it off. Most folks have no idea what's involved but, that's part of the beauty of it, making it look easy. If you can achieve that, we used to joke after a show "we fooled em again"
Most don't know. Hell, most probably don't even wonder. Back in the 70s, before the house lights went down, I used to marvel at all the rigging, cables, lights, and massive speaker cabinets. How it all went together, how much work went into making sure things went right, most of the time. This doc was incredibly satisfying.
UNFREAKING BELIEVABLE!!!! I have owned my own studio and have engineered / produced many projects over the years. However, the work and intelligence that goes into Rush concerts has never done anything less than stun me. So enjoyed this video that I have watched over and over. So sad we will never be able to enjoy the Rush live experience live again.
@@47Str8 me and an older guy I used to work with went, seen them in Michigan. He was in his late 50's at the time, he puts that show in his top 10 concerts he's ever seen. Been since the late 80"s since I had seen them and the 70's for him. When they came out we were blown away
You know this stuff goes on, but no one ever talks about it. I absolutely respect what these people do and how passionate they are about it. And what a band to work for. 3 of the nicest guys in rock history.
So Sadi will never see these brilliant musicians live again. I feel very privileged to have seen them live a few times. I hope Alex and Geddy are healthy and happy enjoying life with their loved ones. RIP Neil Peart. What a band. 👏👍🇬🇧
At the end of most shows I worked, we would always play 2 songs as the audience left the venue. Those songs were "We Are The Roadcrew" by Motorhead, and "East Bound and Down" by Jerry Reed. It was our thanks to the Local crews.
I've always had a lot of respect for roadies regarding how hard they work, and the long hours they put it. But it's real easy to forget it also takes a ton of intelligence, common sense, and ingenuity. Even the guys working "small" bands and concert venues are impressive... but you reach the level of mega-groups and arena or even stadium concerts, and it's just unbelievable what they're able to pull off. Once in a great while you'll hear a musician praise their road crew during the show... but it doesn't happen nearly often enough.
Another ‘once upon a life’ guy who survived his misspent youth as an invisible back line player for countless ‘neverweres’, ‘has beens’, up and comers back between 1983 and 96 in Seattle. Loved the show loved the life. Woulda loved to have stayed in it if it had been for a couple less indecisions or decisions. Depending upon what actually happened. Miss a single call and it can safely be said: it’s over. Working for I believe every single production company in Seattle, at varying times, occasionally double dipping if lighting was simple and timing was right, joining the event services team to work for stage or background properties, any of numerous other things, even finding myself enjoying the drapery department, something i ardently avoided. But one day my buddy Kieth VD (last name initials, not relating to any STDs) said he needed me to help in the dreaded drapery department. Being taken from the calming and always beloved task of building a cable, or re-lamping the entire Par64 rig from 1KMFL to a VNflood on the old black cans was something others despised while I called it an easy and silently satisfying project to do. Between the actual events, every day in the shop prepping for a triple 7 rollout (The first was massive and as exciting as I can only imagine doing a Stones or Rush gig. Dozens of subsequent 777s to some Saudi douche prince, not so much.) The junior prince rollouts were an interesting, but embarrassing contest for out luxurying a competitor kings spoiled childish adult son pitted against the need to throw his bloody oil money away at alarming rates, while enjoying the benefits of berating the lowly surfs who handled the decor and lighting type chores of the working class. 😂 Yes, those were the glory days and years of my misspent 20s. Had I not missed a single stage call (as I am sitting and recollecting) that day, I can only remember that it followed a 2-3 week period of 16-20hour work days, and falling asleep on the bus. Often times I’d take the bus to use as my time off, pick a route that was circular, and leave Seattle, and arrive back downtown 3-4hours later at the same location. The drivers knew me by name often. One day I slept through the drivers entire shift and was awakened by the mechanic at the metro station. LOL. Now in ‘23, it’s just a good memory.
Good to see these kinds of documentaries. RUSH is one of the few bands that always gave credits and kudos to 'The Crew!' All these guys are invisible when they do their jobs right. Its a tough and demanding life.
The personal guitar techs have the best jobs. Most downtime. Best pay. Get to handle and guard legendary instruments. Forge a personal relationship with the artist. THE BEST JOB EVER.
How does one get to being in that job ? Are they usually somebody the musicians have known personally for years ? And what kind of money 💰 do personal roadies make
@@MsRocker961 Typically. Yes. It's people they've known for years or the tech they used prior to getting signed. I had a good friend who was the guitarist in a death metal signed band called Origin. His name is Paul Ryan. Absolute monster. Jason Becker good. No joke. His tech made 15% of his door and merch money. That would vary venue to venue. No in the big show??? Like John Mayer, Slipknot, and so ??? Those guys make pretty crazy money. Elwood,.....who was Billy Gibbon's tech and now his bass player, made insane money. He said in a rig review interview that he has everything he has ever wanted thanks to Billy. I'd say it low six figures a year. At the least. And those guys get set in stone contracts. So yeah. Best job ever. Besides being that guys boss. Lol
I had a friend I grew up with that worked with them starting in the early years & remained into the 90’s. He loved it, RIP, Skip...I can’t help but think of him every time I watch or listen to anything to do with Rush.
Geddy Lee one of the greatest Canadian,who befriended my brother,and they had a. Wonderful relationship until my brother passed away.Geddy I'm sure spent time. Sharing emails although Geddy was busy on tour or writing music.He brought much joy to Ralph
Rush is not your typical band of rock stars. Very appreciative of the fans and approachable. Amazing musicians. Not surprised to hear that Geddy reached out to an individual for whatever the reason. More reasons to love these guys.
I can attest to these guys doing an excellent job. Saw Rush for Snakes and Arrows and R40 and the sound was absolutely incredible (floor seats) The backstage crew are unsung heroes. Rush weren't no slouches either!
I saw them TWICE on the Snakes tour in STL- 2nd time was front row stage right- probably the best shows I’ve ever been to- those were at an outdoor amphitheater- the engineering and sound challenges must’ve been brutal- but both shows were mind blowing! The bass lines were earth shaking and heart pounding and the laser and video production was astounding! Thank you to all the people behind the scenes that make it all possible nite after nite- makes the $150 a seat we paid more worth it- and RIP Neil Peart....
Yep, the dragon spitting fire onto the stage was freaking nuts. THE coolest live effect I have evar seen.. I was seated about 200 feet back more less centered ... always wonders how that might have looked up close
Thank You to everyone for their hard work and dedication throughout the years for Rush and the fans. All we need now is a dedicated Rush channel on Sirius XM , classic rewind keeps bringing it up from time to time and we believe it's time!!!
Man, gonna miss Rush 🥲. RIP Neil Peart. Thanks for the music and memories. I feel bad for these road crew guys now too. When he said “if I don’t tour I don’t get paid”. Covid has put a lot of these guys in a bad place. Can’t wait to get back to something that resembles “normalcy “. Godspeed 🤘🏻
I remember my first RUSH concert in1977. I wish to be able to go back and see that show again in Cincinnati, Ohio at US Bank Arena.... RUSH has had the secret sauce for over 4 decades. The Fly by Night album was my introduction to RUSH. I could really get my aggressions out of my system when listening to RUSH. FAREWELL NEIL PERT. THE RUSH BAND COULDN'T PLAY AS A BAND ANY LONGER WITHOUT THEIR FRIEND AND COMRADE IN MUSIC. RIP Neil Peart - I hope you found Jesus 🙏 🥁.
Always nice to see the tech side of a 1st Class rock show, well done fella's . . . How fortunate we were to have known then as they were part of the Sound Track of our lives . . . .
Very very appreciative of this. I really enjoyed learning about the monumental effort involved in setting up a Rush Show...I’ve seen them so many times..#RIPNeilPeart
Good to see fellow Rush fans and musicians commenting. I'm a drummer myself but I also did some stage/sound work. For anyone who thinks this would be a dream job, I can tell you that being a roadie/tech support in any of these roles for a touring band, is a dirty, greasy, dangerous, and hard job! Of note, and as they tell you, the most time consuming part is getting the rigging points, then attaching the chains for the motors to lift the lighting and PA rig. Unlike having a different venue every night, we saved time by making permanent rigging points in the rafters of the one arena I worked, and placed beam clamps there, and painted them, so they wouldn't be visible. Then, we'd only need a lift to attach the chains (about at least 50 feet-100 feet in the air) to the four (or approx. 6) points to lift the PA/lighting rig. Also, those chains and motors for the lifts need to be well-lubed with grease, hence the "dirty" part of the job. Expect to lift A LOT of heavy gear. You can get yourself hurt easily in this line of work. Sometimes the overall crew is broken down by lighting crew, sound crew, stage crew, and band crew. Being in the band's direct crew (being responsible for their personal instruments/gear) is probably the "top" of the totem pole, in the hierarchy of things. Also, sometimes, the crew will hire union/local crew staff to supplement the band's core crew for the more menial/grunt tasks. It's not a life I want to live anymore, so be prepared for long days and heavy lifting if you want to work in this field.
@@surveyordave David, I would agree with you statement, hence why I said in my post: "Being in the band's direct crew (being responsible for their personal instruments/gear) is probably the "top" of the totem pole, in the hierarchy of things."
Those were about 8 Basses on that rack there @ 43:45 . I am sure audiences appreciate the work done behind the scenes and the Band certainly does. Thanks muchly!
I've wanted to be one of these guys since I first saw them , Moving Pictures tour , an instant connection with RUSH . Specifically , I would have most wanted to control the lighting . However , my 15 times seeing them in concert , ( the last in Cleveland Ohio ) , will help fill that void that now exists . Thank you Alex , Geddy and especially Neil . " Suddenly you were gone from all the lives you left your mark upon " . You departed on January 7th , but was made public on January 10th , my birthday . It was like someone smacked me with a telephone pole . I thank you for all the memories guys and getting me through some tough times . Rest in peace Professor , I pray that you are with your lost loved ones in Heaven . You will never be forgotten , ever . ❤ 🇨🇦🇺🇸
Watching this reminded me how much this band was so much of a joy to listen to. They kept their values to the rend, not giving in to corporate pressure. Their fans was the priority and it showed. Thanks rush for being you!
In my 63 years on this earth.I have enjoyed their tallents and skills for most of my life.It isn't much but i saw them twice here in Indiana.....in 75 and 78.I watched Neil like a hawk because i play drums.I saw him drop a few sticks and never miss a beat.I have real pictures of them when they were in Chicago at Comisky Park (White Sox).....and have most of their CDs and a few DVDs. RIP Neil.....now your with Selena and Jackie somewhere..!!
I worked on the last leg of the Scorpions Face The Heat tour back in 1994. This brings back lots of memories. A big rock-n-roll traveling circus. Some of my fondest memories of my life. Thanks for the video. Really good and positive disposition within the crew. (At least whats presented on the video.)
This documentary is really fascinating and shows the serious amount of hard graft it takes getting all the equipment into place so the band looks and sounds great.....only for it all to be dismantled, packed away, and on to the next gig. The techie guys certainly know their stuff and earn their money.
This was great to watch. I have been a fan of the band since "Moving Pictures" ... Being able to see a lot of the set up, hard work and personalities behind the production really allows me to understand the magnitude of the event. The performance seems flawless, due to the fanatical commitment of guys like Brad and Bret. Rush is a unique band on so many levels.
I wonder if the guys in the band ever wax nostalgic about the days when they had to lug around and set up all their own gear? I bet a small part of them would miss that. When they were young and invincible and dreaming of making it big.
I have about 7000 W/RMS of amplification from my four NAD vintage amplifiers. I only use about 30 watts of it in my 30' by 20' listening studio. You can never have to much headroom. 😎 Rush and Heart are the two best sounding (tightest sounding) live bands in the world. The roadies, instrument technicians and sound engineers are the unsung hero's that make these bands sound great at all of the different venues.
Great documentary! Rush is one of my all-time favorite bands. I've been listening to them since I was a kid back in the 70s. I own all of their albums and love every one! Unfortunately, I never had the chance to see them live.
That is a crime bro! They are amazing live. I have fond memories of just waiting in line overnight for Rush tickets to go on sale and the waiting was more than worth it!
Saw them live 'back in the day', right before 2112 came out. What a show, I couldn't believe 3 guys could make so much sound. We hadn't even really heard of them in Boise ID yet, but they were better than Styx, who they opened for.
I have a photo of my brother with Geddy Lee and Jim Cuddy,these two gentlemen gave my brother so much enjoyment,for this I'm so thank ful for making my brother realize how much he joys life
It's funny as I am sure the band can remember back to the grinding task of doing everything yourself. It takes years of struggle to hopefully make it to the big league. For most of us, it is a lot of work for very little pay and just the pure love of playing.
@@skybridge3126 yes I did at the Garden State Atrs Center now the PNC bank atrs center i believe here in N.J. I also saw them at Madison Square Garden. Must say Rush was more powerful as crazy astir might sound.
Thank you for this video! What an incredible insight into the making of the concerts that most of us only notice the performers (and portrayers). So great to highlight the work of the roadies who put it all together for the band and audience!
i was a roadie for local shore band, not anywhere on the level of this....but we miss you Neil!! and thanks to all these guys and gals who set up this stage....AMAZING talent knowing what to put where? that is the question.....
Amazing on how many people lives these three men from Willowdale touched. I hope all the great people that brought us Rush live have found other artists to work with. All the Rush concerts I've been to have been the best live performances I've ever seen. Not only the music but what these people setup and do to make the shows special. The people behind the stage are just as talented as the three men stage center. It's still a little painful to listen to Clockwork Angles as I know this is the last tracks ever recorded by the late, great Neil Peart.
I am a stagehand in California.... Its been a year since i worked.. I cant believe everything is shut down like it is.....just wiped out the whole industry!!
Sad isn't it? The big production company here is taking anything and everything they can to keep the doors open. I know the owner & he's doing jobs they normally wouldn't do. I feel horrible for you guys, keep the faith!
This is what my son does. Because he tells me all about his job I know exactly what those guys are doing. It's not a life I would choose but he loves it.
I was a roadie back in the 60s. This today is so sophisticated that its no wonder that the band of today sound perfecr because all these systems make it almost imposible not To have a bad night....
Umm no. It's not crew wages that drive up ticket prices, it's companies like Ticketmaster taking a larger cut. 30 years ago Rush still had a top-notch production and staff, and ticket prices were very reasonable, $20-30.
@@NelsonClick Consider this : we have been getting paid the same rates for the last several years maybe as long as 5- 10 years, while ticket prices continue to skyrocket. There is no direct relation of ticket prices to our Weekly / Day rates on tour. In fact the trend over the last few years has been for Rec label/ Tour Management to try to undercut our rates. With some of us taking a tour positon at a lower rate then what has been long established as standard for a particular position. What does drive up ticket prices ? Venue rental fees increasing, Promoter cuts increasing- remember they are the ones that book the show and put it on in your city- , Travel and Trucking expense increasing, Record labels attempting to maintain or increase their profit margins. The Promoter sees that Record label will put it's band on tour, said promoter than asks how much the Tour would charge for being booked . Promoter calcs that in along with venue rental fees , local crew hire, negotiations per Merch sales, Parking fees, Concessions cuts, Promoter thinks I need to make this much profit THEN sets ticket prices with a ticket vendor getting cut usually. Tour makes the same no matter what. No sell out or at least 75% sold ? then its the Promoter taking a bath. Get the picture ???!!!
It's always fun to revisit this video, the production crew is amazing they work hard to bring a good show for the fans and are the unsung heroes of many great concerts.
2 ,ND to none. The best in the business. The sound was very good every time I seen them play. Hands down !!!!!! As a DETROIT concert goer I should know thanks to all you guys ...your 1!!!!!!
This was such a great learning experience to watch what it takes to bring the magic of music alive especially with this level of talented players! We never give these guys the credit they deserve. Whenever the next big show comes I will definitely pay a whole lot more attention to what you guys are doing behind the scenes. I'm sure you all were devastated more than the fans were when Neil passed away. Working with Rush had to be the best job on the planet. I just hope and pray that Geddy and Alex will let someone sit in for Neil and maybe do another tour. Their music is to good to not continue.
depending on the ballbags playing their love songs and the quality of the lsd determins how much bullshit you can take setting up a tour show . when does rush do free im going to have more lsd then thats whati would do .
It’s amazing to witness how the technology has drastically changed since the 1980’s. Most of the gear from this 2007-2008 tour is long obsolete. We live in the digital world now, Dante, MADI, AES50, CAT6, Waves Soundgrid, on and on. I run 64 channels of FOH over one CAT6 network cable w/ a secondary backup. Great video, thanks!
Love these guy the sound stage is what they’re known for world wide and three musicians the make a lot of sound . Even to date they where the best and loudest concert , seen them early 80s outside Seattle Memorial stadium and in coliseum . Thanks for the back stage pass very cool
It's crazy how different things can sound depending on where you are in a venue. For instance, I was at a Slipknot show a couple years ago, I was up against the gate, in the very front, dead center, (it was awesome) but it sounded like shit. We basically had the PA to the side of us, facing behind us. So we could hear like the drums from the stage itself, some of the instruments, but barely any vocals. I've been to many other shows where if you are back a bit, it sounds amazing. So really the best position for optimal sound is in the center, like 50-100 feet back from the stage.
