12 Facts About Rush You Probably Didn’t Know About
There are several fascinating facts you may want to know about the iconic band Rush. This Canadian rock band with the trio Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Neil Peart, has 24 gold and 14 platinum albums on their belt. Though they may not have achieved the same level of mainstream fame as some other rock bands, their impact on music and their devoted fanbase is undeniable.
Genesis of a Band
The birth of the band started in 1963 when guitarist Alex Lifeson met drummer John Rutsey. No one knew that this meetup was the start of a long journey that would lead to the band’s international acclaim.
Geddy Lee Joined After Lending an Amp
Originally, the band had Jeff Jones as bassist and vocalist. But in 1968, he left, and Lifeson’s school friend, Geddy Lee, joined as his replacement—after first lending the band an amp for a show. Lee’s addition brought the band the distinctive voice and bass style that would define their sound.
Early Influence of The Paupers
Rush was influenced by the Toronto-based band The Paupers. This influence, highlighted in the documentary Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage, shaped the musical style that Alex and Geddy would bring to the band in its early years.
First Live Performance for 11,000 Fans
1974 was the breakthrough of their career as they performed live for a crowd of 11,000. It was the first of many sold-out concerts in the band’s long career.
Neil Peart Steps In
Rush found its new direction when Neil Peart joined the group on July 29, 1974. With Peart’s technical drumming and creative lyrics, Rush emerged with a unique sound and musicality. His creative influence can be seen in tracks like “Tom Sawyer” and “The Spirit of Radio.”
Personal Tragedy Marked Peart’s Life
The year 1997 was a tragic year for Peart. After facing an immense heartbreak losing his daughter in a car accident, he lost his wife to cancer just 10 months later. Despite his losses, Peart eventually returned to Rush, performing on the band’s last tour in 2015.
Canadian Music Hall of Fame Induction
In 1994, the band was formally inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame for their significant contribution to music. Tom Cochrane presented the band at the JUNO Awards.
Geddy Lee Is a Collector of All Kinds of Things
Geddy Lee is also known for his passion for collecting. He is well-known for his bass guitar, baseball memorabilia, vintage wine, and watch collections. Lee often jokes that it’s a “disease,” but, well, that makes him happy.
Alex and Geddy’s Early Friendship
Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson first met in a history class at Fisherville Junior High. This friendship laid the foundation for Rush and their chemistry on stage. They played their first show together in 1968, and by 1974, the band released their debut album.
Rock and Jazz Were Peart’s Musical Inspiration
Peart was initially inspired by rock drummers like Keith Moon and John Bonham but later incorporated jazz influences. This mix shaped his technical style and helped Rush become respected not only by fans but by musicians as well.
Rush’s Finale Concert
Rush didn’t announce their official retirement until 2018. However, their final concert performance was on August 1, 2015, in Los Angeles as part of their R40 tour. For more than 40 years, the band made their final bow.
Peart Wrote Most of Rush’s Lyrics and Seven Books
Aside from being the drummer, Neil Peart was the main lyricist for Rush. He even shares his literary side having written seven books, including personal stories and travel chronicles.
