Rush was a Canadian rock band that enjoyed a long and influential career in the music industry
Rush was known for its progressive rock sound, characterized by complex musical arrangements, extended instrumental sections, and philosophical lyrics. They released numerous critically acclaimed albums over their career, including classics like “2112,” “Moving Pictures,” and “Permanent Waves.”
Rush Facts
1- The Band from Willowdale, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
2- Band Formed in 1968,
3- They first got a job to play at a coffee house called the “Coff-In.”
4- Rush Inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1994.
5- Geddy Lee was born Gary Lee Weinrib. “Geddy” came from his grandmother’s pronunciation of “Gary”
6- Neil Peart’s daughter Selena was killed in a car accident in 1997.
7- The group has been awarded 24 gold, 14 platinum, and 3 multi-platinum albums.
8- The song “2112,” which is made up of seven parts, together is 20 minutes and 33 seconds long, making it the band’s longest song.
9- Geddy Lee is a connoisseur and collector of classic wines.
10- Rush was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1994 and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013.
11- In late 2009, Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson launched an auction for their initiative “Grapes Under Pressure”, in support of the cause “Grapes for Humanity”
12- Rush has received nominations for seven Grammy Awards
13- Neil Peart writes most of the lyrics
14- On April 24, 2010, the documentary Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage, directed by Scot McFadyen and Sam Dunn, premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival
15- The movie poster for Eraserhead (1977) appears 17 seconds into their music video “Limelight” (1981).
16- Alex Lifeson was influenced by Jimi Hendrix, Pete Townshend, Jeff Beck, Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page
17- The band is featured on the album Songs for Tibet, appearing with other celebrities as an initiative to support Tibet and the current Dalai Lama Tenzin Gyatso
18- On June 25, 2010, Rush received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6752 Hollywood Boulevard.
19- Alex first met Geddy in a history class at Fisherville Junior High
20- The band has won several Juno Awards, won an International Achievement Award at the 2009 SOCAN Awards,
21- Their early sound was mostly influenced by Cream and Led Zeppelin
22- Neil Peart Initially inspired by Keith Moon, Peart absorbed the influence of other rock drummers from the 1960s and 1970s such as Ginger Baker, Carmine Appice, and John Bonham
23- As of 2012, Moving Pictures was the band’s highest-selling album
More Facts
- Formation: Rush was formed in August 1968 in Toronto, Canada.
- Original Lineup: The band’s original lineup consisted of Geddy Lee (bass/vocals), Alex Lifeson (guitar), and John Rutsey (drums).
- Neil Peart: Drummer and lyricist Neil Peart joined Rush in 1974, replacing John Rutsey, and became a central figure in the band’s identity.
- Debut Album: Rush released their self-titled debut album in 1974.
- 1976’s “2112”: The album “2112” is often considered a turning point for the band, featuring the epic title track that ran over 20 minutes.
- Progressive Rock: Rush is known for their progressive rock sound, characterized by complex time signatures and lyrics with philosophical and science fiction themes.
- Album “Moving Pictures”: “Moving Pictures” (1981) is one of their most successful albums and includes tracks like “Tom Sawyer” and “Limelight.”
- Longevity: Rush had a remarkably long and stable career, performing together for over four decades.
- Live Performances: The band was renowned for their high-energy live performances and extensive concert tours.
- Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Rush was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013.
- Album Sales: Rush sold over 40 million records worldwide.
- Lifeson’s Signature Guitar: Alex Lifeson’s primary guitar, a Gibson ES-355, is known as the “White Double Neck.”
- Geddy Lee’s Basses: Geddy Lee is known for playing Rickenbacker and Fender Jazz Bass guitars.
- Neil Peart’s Drumming: Neil Peart’s drumming style was highly regarded for its complexity and precision. He’s often considered one of the greatest drummers in rock history.
- Lyricism: Peart’s lyrics often delved into philosophical and science fiction themes, making them stand out in the rock world.
- Album “Signals”: The album “Signals” (1982) featured a significant shift towards synthesizers and new wave influences.
- “Subdivisions”: The song “Subdivisions” (from “Signals”) remains a fan favorite, exploring themes of conformity and alienation.
- “Time Stand Still”: The song “Time Stand Still” (from “Hold Your Fire,” 1987) featured guest vocals by Aimee Mann.
- Retirement: Rush officially retired from touring in 2015, following their R40 Live Tour.
- Last Studio Album: “Clockwork Angels” (2012) was the band’s final studio album, featuring a concept story written by Neil Peart.
