Alex Lifeson Reflects on Recent Performances with Geddy Lee Bringing ‘Closure’
In a heartwarming revelation, Alex Lifeson shares how recent performances alongside Geddy Lee provided a sense of “closure” for both him and the devoted Rush fans. The guitarist joined his longtime bandmate on stage during stops in London and Toronto as part of Lee’s book tour for “My Effin’ Life.”
During a chat with SiriusXM’s Eddie Trunk
Lifeson expressed the naturalness of these joint shows, emphasizing their enduring friendship.
“Doing these shows with him was a no-brainer,” he explained. “Because basically I just sat on a stage with him doing the stuff that we’ve been doing for 50 years in the back of a car or in an airplane or on the bus. We’re best of friends. So it was just getting up and riffing and laughing and goofing around. Just like we always have.”
The guitarist reflected on the overwhelmingly positive response from Rush enthusiasts at the Toronto show, noting the fans’ need for closure after the band’s last tour.
“The audience in Toronto was like just being in a room with a bunch of friends,” Lifeson shared. “A lot of people didn’t feel they had closure after we finished the last tour. And I think this is a way of giving them a little bit. To see that everything is OK, that we’re still friends and together and doing stuff together, having the same kind of wonderful experience that we’ve always had.”
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Despite the joy derived from these appearances, Lifeson clarified that there are no plans for him and Lee to embark on a tour together.
The guitarist declared his disinterest in touring altogether, citing the toll it takes on personal relationships.
“So 40 years of touring, I’m not interested in touring anymore,” he confessed. “I enjoyed it when we did it, there were lots of ups and downs. The gig is great, the show is great, and for the other 21 hours in a day, you’re just waiting for those 3 hours. And it gets tiring, especially when you have a family and you have loved ones at home that you’re estranged from for months and months and months at a time. I don’t miss that aspect of it.”
Amid speculations of a Rush reunion, Lifeson admitted to discussions with Lee about potential future collaborations but emphasized the lack of concrete plans.
“I know Ged would like to play again and he would like to spend some time writing,” Lifeson explained. “But beyond that, honestly, we haven’t talked about anything beyond just getting together and having a coffee and bashing out a few notes.”
“Whenever he’s ready, like usual, I only live five minutes away from him,” Lifeson continued. “I’ll go over and hang out and we’ll turn the recorder on and do some stuff. But there’s no plan for a tour. There’s no plan for anything.”
In essence, Lifeson’s recent collaborations with Lee provided a touching reunion but don’t signal a return to the touring lifestyle for the legendary Rush guitarist.
