In a loss that’s both shocking and hard to fathom, Neil Peart the legendary drummer of Rush passed away this week from a 3.5 year battle with brain cancer. Peart’s last tour with Rush was in the summer of 2015 and he’s been seen few and far between if at all since, as Rush founding members Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson have since said the music of Rush is probably done forever.
Peart was a monster lyricist, whose lyrics were the cornerstone of the Rush songs and his drummer of technical proficiency was unrivaled: one who wrote drum solos as their own piece of music. Clearly a league of his own, “the professor” to be missed, is an understatement. An incredibly smart, unassuming thoughtful and grounded musician as there was, Peart rarely did interviews or met with fans. Similar to David Bowie’s death in January of 2016, nobody knew of Peart’s sickness, which is indicative of how private a person Peart was.
Rush posted the following messageon their website
It is with broken hearts and the deepest sadness that we must share the terrible news that on Tuesday our friend, soul brother and band mate of over 45 years, Neil, has lost his incredibly brave three and a half year battle with brain cancer (Glioblastoma). We ask that friends, fans, and media alike understandably respect the family’s need for privacy and peace at this extremely painful and difficult time. Those wishing to express their condolences can choose a cancer research group or charity of their choice and make a donation in Neil Peart’s name.
Rest in peace brother.
Neil Peart September 12, 1952 – January 7, 2020
…dude…fu%+in Neil The GAWD. All respect due to the legend. RIP. @ Hamilton, Ontario https://t.co/kuqlmiG1ku
— Director Questlove (@questlove) January 10, 2020
