10 of the Most Iconic Drum Licks of Neil Peart

Neil Peart, the legendary drummer of Rush, was known for his unmatched precision, creativity, and ability to blend technicality with emotion. His drumming became an essential element of the band’s sound, influencing countless drummers across genres. His most iconic drum licks not only showcased his technical mastery but also highlighted his unique ability to tell a story through rhythm. Here are ten of Neil Peart’s most iconic drum licks that have stood out in his extraordinary career.

1. “Tom Sawyer” (1981)

The drum break in “Tom Sawyer” is one of Neil Peart’s most recognizable moments. It combines a steady rhythm with rapid snare fills and cymbal accents, showcasing his ability to balance technical skill with a driving groove.

This part of the song became a defining moment for aspiring drummers trying to master Peart’s intricate patterns. The syncopation and use of tom-toms created a dynamic feel that continues to resonate with fans of Rush and drumming enthusiasts alike.

2. “YYZ” (1981)

The instrumental track “YYZ” features a drum lick that pairs perfectly with the song’s irregular time signature. Peart opens the track with an unforgettable rhythmic pattern that mimics the Morse code for “YYZ,” Toronto’s airport code.

The lick demands an incredible sense of timing and control, as Peart navigates through polyrhythms while keeping the track cohesive. It remains one of the most challenging and admired performances in progressive rock.

3. “La Villa Strangiato” (1978)

This epic instrumental showcases Neil Peart’s flair for blending jazz-inspired drumming with rock intensity. The drum lick during the middle section weaves intricate cymbal work with sharp snare hits, creating a sophisticated rhythmic texture.

The complexity of this piece challenges drummers to maintain precision while switching between time signatures. Peart’s ability to make these transitions sound seamless highlights his extraordinary sense of rhythm and musicality.

4. “The Spirit of Radio” (1980)

The intro to “The Spirit of Radio” features an iconic drum lick that is both powerful and rhythmically complex. Peart’s use of syncopation and precise hi-hat work creates a lively opening that grabs the listener’s attention immediately.

As the song progresses, his drumming complements the shifting dynamics and showcases his ability to add depth without overshadowing the other instruments. This lick has become a favorite for drummers to learn and perform.

5. “Subdivisions” (1982)

Peart’s drumming in “Subdivisions” demonstrates his mastery of electronic drum pads and acoustic drums. The opening lick incorporates a steady, pulsing rhythm with subtle fills that enhance the track’s moody atmosphere.

Throughout the song, he blends traditional drumming with innovative electronic elements, showing his forward-thinking approach to percussion. This combination adds a unique layer to the song’s overall sound.

6. “2112: Overture” (1976)

The drum lick in “2112: Overture” is a hallmark of Neil Peart’s early career. It combines thunderous drum rolls with rapid cymbal crashes, creating a sense of urgency that drives the epic narrative forward.

This performance highlights Peart’s ability to craft dynamic rhythms that enhance the storytelling of the song. The transitions between the intense sections and softer moments are executed flawlessly, making it a fan favorite.

7. “Freewill” (1980)

In “Freewill,” Peart delivers a drum lick that is both intricate and energetic. The syncopated snare and cymbal patterns during the instrumental break demonstrate his technical prowess and creativity.

This section is a masterclass in maintaining control while delivering a high-energy performance. Peart’s ability to elevate the track without overshadowing the melody makes this one of his standout moments.

8. “Red Barchetta” (1981)

The drum lick in “Red Barchetta” captures the excitement and movement described in the song. Peart’s tight, fast-paced rhythm adds a sense of urgency to the track, perfectly matching the lyrics.

His use of tom-toms and cymbals creates a vivid soundscape, making listeners feel as if they are part of the chase described in the song. It is a brilliant example of how Peart used drumming to enhance storytelling.

9. “Xanadu” (1977)

“Xanadu” features a drum lick that combines complexity with subtlety. The intricate patterns on the hi-hats and toms during the opening section create an ethereal atmosphere that sets the tone for the song.

As the track builds, Peart seamlessly transitions to more powerful rhythms, demonstrating his versatility and attention to detail. This performance showcases his ability to adapt his drumming to the changing dynamics of a song.

10. “Closer to the Heart” (1977)

Although “Closer to the Heart” is a more straightforward track, Peart’s drumming still stands out. The drum lick in the bridge section uses delicate cymbal work and crisp snare hits to add depth to the song.

His restrained approach shows that he didn’t always rely on technicality to create memorable moments. Instead, he focused on what best served the music, making this drum lick a subtle but iconic part of his legacy.