I tend to believe all of you because it's what I hear too. This coming from a BIG Zeppelin fan (nobody came close, bla bla bla), who thought Bonzo was God, but him and Neil are both Gods. That's the reality. Rush exceeded Zeppelin and many others in the small number of musicians used that creates a truly massive sound.
@@scottzappa9314 Agree 100% The list of great bands is long, so I wont bother but ZEP & RUSH along with the other Rock gods from the 60s, 70s, 80s, and part of the 90s will rule for a very long time, possibly forever. There never will be another band like RUSH or Zeppelin, or Queen or YES. Music isnt music today it's mass produced, auto tuned garbage with no soul.
This song was really personal to Neil Peart, who wrote the lyrics to 99% of all Rush songs. Neil really struggled with his fame. He was driven to be the best drummer he could possibly be, but he really didn’t like dealing with fans. He had a bit of a phobia when it came to meeting strange people. He shares that in the lyric in the second verse, “I can’t pretend a stranger is a long awaited friend”. Neil was a shy introvert, who liked reading. It made him uncomfortable when people gushed over him and he obviously found it impossible to put on an act as though they were his friends. Geddy and Alex used to do all of the meet and greet after the shows. They were both very social with a great sense of humor. Neil would typically sprint off stage and leap on his motorcycle, which he rode from city to city, following the tour. It worried Geddy and Alex a lot that something might happen to him on the way to a show, but Neil was Neil and nothing could change his way. This song’s lyrics speak volumes about his person. He was living in the Limelight, but was actually a quiet, reserved individual and the best drummer in rock and roll music (RIP professor).
That's where the lyrics "I can't pretend a stranger is along awaited friend" come from. Thankfully the rest of his band mates realized it early on and took care of the media and fan meet and greets.
I wish I could upvote your comment a million times. Those lyrics are so, so personal to Neil yet also describe a reality of humanity that many people never realize or, choose to deny. So beautifully written.
@@Darin.Pearson Are you saying Neil wrote the lyrics? Despite being born in '71 in upstate NY and hearing their music most of my life, I don't really know much about the band. The fellas themselves.
@rmg03c Yes, Neil wrote the lyrics from the "Fly by Night" album until their final album "Clockwork Angels". John Rutsey was their drummer on their first album. Alex and Geddy wrote the lyrics. John had to leave the band for health reasons. Rush then auditioned drummers and, fortunately for them and us, Neil auditioned and was chosen. Neil immediately started contributing lyrical ideas. Alex and Geddy recognized his talent and decided Neil was much better than they were as a lyricist. Not only that, he was prolific. Many of Neil's lyrics are renowned for their beauty, insight, and commentary on humanity. Neil was a voracious reader but, reading alone is not enough. I am a voracious reader and could never write like Neil did. Neil was a special talent.
@rmg03c Naturally, you can read about them on the Internet. A fun documentary about them is called "Beyond the Lighted Stage." That title is a play on the lyrics in "Limelight", the lyrics from which are the quote above on which I commented and which started this discussion. I believe you would really enjoy that documentary.
When I was a young sailor stationed at Meridian Mississippi, my co-worker and friend Darren Karstensen was a HUGE RUSH fan. As he put it " In the world of Rock no three persons ever made SO MUCH SOUND". Tragically we lost Darren Mar 07, 1984...only 15 months after I first met him. It was many years later before I dabbled into listening to Rush music but I now understand Darren's comment, and fascination of/for the group.
For those of us who have been listening for over 40 years, seeing someone coming to Rush is an unbridled delight. Welcome! Xanadu from Exit Stage Left will leave you speechless.
I love the way The Trees ends and goes into Xanadu on Exit Stage Left!!! It’s like your are going into a trance and it’s freaking awesome!!! Xanadu is my favorite!
I will go to my grave believing Moving Pictures is the best album of all time. Writing, musicianship, engineering... I have simply never heard anything like it. It's perfection.
Totally agree - I believe that not only is it one of the best progressive rock albums it was the pinnacle of Rush’s career. I first listened to Moving Pictures during a Midnight Album Hour on WRNO New Orleans the day it was released and it just never gets old.
When I listen to this album , I turn it up to 11 and hear something different every time , especially when listening through headphones . In my top ten albums of all time , and I’ve listened to thousands of albums over the years , mainly due to working in a record shop for twenty years during the 80s and 90s ,
Totally agree. Seeing them play the entire album live in 2010 was life changing. Camera Eye live was one of highlights of the 19 times I saw them in concert.
@@redbarchetta4 the one and only time i was able to see them. they were in Canada across the river from my home town where i wasnt allowed to go to their 1977 concert (in my home town) because i was only 11 and my parents a) didnt go to concerts b) didnt have the money to go to concerts c) wouldnt have let me go alone anyway... absolutely the best concert of my entire life and at least i can say i saw them, live, from 2 rows back of the barricade/pit
Very nice reaction. Rush were famous for several reasons, but their ability to replicate studio recordings into flawless live performances set them above the rest. They cared more about being great musicians than being popular. Pretty damn rare in any era or genre.
You're experiencing the wonder of Rush that some of us started having 40 years ago. IMO, since you like the studio setting with the combined views of them performing, it's time to watch "Tom Sawyer" also done at LeStudio. Probably considered their "signature" song, although by no means the last one you'll want to hear.....their discography is huge. As always, RIP to The Professor.
his hemispheres hair was his best hair. I have on my wall the photo of him in mid scream, playing the Rickenbacker, the turquois ring, DV DS 35 mic.... spectacular!!! 😊
When they were inducting YES into the Rock&Roll HOF, because Chris Squire was no longer there they needed a Bassist, and Rush was inducting them, they asked Geddy to sit in with them for the show
@@kevinmoore5053 Geddy did such a great job that evening; just playing in the background, recognizing that it was Yes’ night, and didn't make a big deal of himself.
This has always been my favorite RUSH song. The intro grabs you, the lyrics give you a glimpse into the duality of being a brilliant performing act yet a shy individual, and the musical delivery is amazing. The drums are brilliant, captivating and precise, the guitar and bass work are stellar and Geddy's voice drives the emotion of the song to your heart. This song always made me appreciate that there are pros and cons to every avenue in life so do the best you can with the gifts you have and be thankful for your friends and experiences. Thanks for the reaction.
Alas Neil has exited the stage for good. This piece has always moved me in the sense of his being so vulnerable in his discomfort with the limelight. Now it brings me to tears, but not in a negative way. A mix of gratefulness, sadness, respect.
You have to bear in mind too that he is singing someone else's lyrics & he & Neil had a great respect & understanding regarding that. Geddy always said that he had to understand what Neil was talking about so that he could sing with conviction. Also Neil was so without ego that he would re-write entire parts if Geddy felt it was necessary. A small insight into why they were able to work together & remain great friends for more than 40 years.
For a more thorough education of the band’s talent, you might want to see them perform “Xanadu” live from Exit Stage Left. Life changing!! Thank you for your amazing content!!
Whilst a good song, it's a difficult one for first-time listeners to enjoy, moving as it does through many different parts over a long time period. I see reactioners of this song struggle with concentration because of that, though they do their best. Also, there's a lot more music in Xanadu than vocals.
A quick meaningless note: being black, I’m one of four blacks that I know who have been listening for years. Xanadu is one of my top three favorites of RUSH entire catalog and I have almost every song they created,, since I started listening in 76’ from seeing them on “Thr Midnight Special “
Yeah, Xanadu, whilst showcasing the band's musical prowess, doesn't really give a vocal coach a lot to work with. It's also way too long for a quick assessment of Geddy Lee's vocal range.
I like how 8:26 her facial expressions change when Alex is playing the solo especially when he hits the note at 8:36. We’ve been having those expressions for over 40 years. Welcome 🤣
Amazing how Geddy doesn't just sing but plays bass & keyboards too. What a multitasker ! The video was filmed at a recording studio outside of Montreal Canada called "Le Studio" which Rush has recorded there 6 times along with David Bowie, Celine Dion, Bryan Adams, Sarah McLachlan & Cat Stevens.
Love to see someone discover the greatest prog rock band. You have a long journey ahead of you, and it's worth every listen, I first heard Rush in 75 and have never looked back.
It's always great to see a new convert to RUSH 🙂. They are as you say extremely gifted talents that had an amazing career. Sadly, The Professor is no longer with us, but he and his brothers have left us with a treasure trove of music. I look forward to more of your analysis of all things RUSH. Great job!
Next up, the medley of Broon's Bane/The Trees/Xanadu off of their live album "Exit...Stage Left". It is the tour that they did right after Moving Pictures and is a masterpiece.
I'm thrilled that you're not one of those people that are turned off by his voice. A lot of people think it's grating. I would strongly suggest checking out a song from before this one called Cygnus x-1 where he hits his highest notes in any Rush song. Then you need to check out something from the 90s when his voice is starting to get lower. I suggest coldfire because he has a really cool chesty quality when he sings that lyric. Then you need to hear resist from the late 90s, then go a little further into the 2000s he really struggles at this point because he's now well into his 40s. I suggest a song named Driven. Then to his final album I highly recommend you check out the garden there's a section where he really does struggle with his falsetto but pulls it off. This song in my opinion was their best song ever and ironically their last song.
Agree. I can see why people are turned off by his voice. I personally love it. My favourite era is the 70's. But I love all the era's of Rush. Good choice with Cygnus X-1, probably my favourite Rush song. I love his shrieking at the end of the song!!.
After listening to them on radio and recorded media, I initially saw Rush in 1982 in ATL, and followed that up with another 7 shows through the years, culminating in their farewell tour. To say that I’m still enthralled by their music is an understatement.
When I think about it, it was really brave for us to cover this song at a music festival back in high school in 1987, which was clearly far from perfect, but at that time we were proud to be able to perform live in front of an audience.
I'm happy for you to not only discover RUSH, but your appreciation of the individual talents is what I find most heart warming and respectful. I will add, Geddy not only plays bass and sings (which is a herculean task) but he also plays keyboards and foot pedals, sometimes all in the same song. Incredible talent. Watch an instrumental by them called Xanadu live Exit Stage Left 1981 if you want to see them all shine. It was what the band said as one of their hardest, most nuanced compositions
Great reaction! Remember that the drummer is the lyricist… so he’s able to write drum parts for time AND for the vocal performance… making all of the above rhythmically coherent. 😊
I've seen a lot of concerts and I was fortunate enough to see Rush live several times. They were the only band I ever saw that sounded exactly like they did on their albums every single time. Sure they added in some amazing solos and extended jams but the songs themselves were always played perfectly, just like on the albums. Truly an amazing band. Its really fun watching a newbie getting into the band. Welcome aboard!
To hear Geddies full vocal range try one of their 20 minute epics like 2112 or The Fountains of Lamneth. Love watching you discover my favorite band and luckily you have decades worth of goat level musicianship to delve into. 😊
I agree it's the song that turned me on to Rush, what took the Rock & Roll hall of fame so long to to induct them Limelight alone was a good enough to induct them let alone the rest of their great music.
Thank you for such an insightful analysis of this man's vocal abilities. His voice has caused many to lose their minds and heavily criticize him for it, but also caused many to absolutely love him for it, too.
Your channel just popped up tonight. No wonder, one of my favorite bands of my youth. In 1976, friends and myself were walking around the Hammond civic center in Indiana. Rush was playing that night. We had no tickets. I guess we were just curious. All of a sudden a door pops open and some guy comes out and asks if we needed tickets. That night we sat off to the side of the stage and experienced Rush. 17 years old. By the time I was 20 I had invested about $2500 in a stereo system. A lot back then. Rush 2112 was my favorite album to play on it. I was in another world listening to them. Thank you for reconnecting me to Rush with your sincere excitement for them. I can still experience it.
I've always felt this song is an EXCELLENT example of how silence can be used as another virtual instrument in a song. This song uses a LOT of time signature changes and the use of "nothing" instrumental wise (while the vocals often continue) is masterful.
I saw them live in Nova Scotia Canada twice in my life. As we have always said in Canada, it’s hard to believe three guys can make so much noise :) all joking aside they’re incredible. You might like the video “Rush Live in Rio” if you haven’t seen it already :) the band had a huge following in rio Brazil. Mostly male. They were considered poets. When they played their famous instrumental YYZ (which is the call sign for Toronto Canada international airport, their home base) you’ll see and hear tens of thousands of Brazilian men dancing and yelling to the song. I remember geddy talking about how they showed up there with millions of dollars in gear having no idea they were going to have such a wonderful time. It was amazing after all their success to see how humble they all were about this. Good Canadians :) makes me proud. Seeing them live made me realize just how talented and creative they are, and the famous chicken cookers onstage (with the stage hand dressed in a chicken costume coming out to do the basting) was hilarious. Anyways I’ve watched a number of your videos now and enjoy them. I always tried to sing like steve Perry, to no avail lol but when I’m alone in the car I belt it out anyways lol. Cheers
It is a beautiful thing when I hear musicians discover Rush and deeply appreciate what they did. Another key element here were Neil Peart's (drummer) lyrics and how rhythmic it was allowing Geddy to articulate accordingly. Sometimes it was a challenge for Geddy to fit words within a particular measure given that Neil was an extremely literate and poetic writer. Pure genius band.
I just love watching her falling in love with Rush. This is one of my all time favourite Rush songs and likely my favourite opening riff of any rock tune.
I remember reading that Geddy’s vocal range spans over three octaves. RUSH wrote the epic “2112”, a multi-part 20+ minute piece that shows how expansive his range is and how he can change from the high end and amazingly switch down to the lower end.
The music of my life ... introduced at 15 and they were my go to until the end of their career ... there will never be another band that can do what they did with nothing but pure talent, no tech wizardry
Great reaction. I love the way your face scrunches up when you hear Geddy hit those high notes. I've been a fan since the mid 70's and love all their music. I recommend Red Barchetta for your next reaction.
Three incredible, talented people put together is a recipe for success big time !!! Soundman has vocals up loud, with some perfect effects... Thats rock n roll ...
I'm glad you didn't wait too long for another Rush tune! Nice choice too 😎The respect and joy that you show discovering these guys just warms my heart. Yup, you get Rush not everyone does.
Now you know why we RUSH fans are so dedicated to this incredible band 🙂 I'm so glad you're giving them another listen and promise that the further you go down the "rabbit hole" of RUSH the more you will fall in love with them. Some suggestions are "2112" (you MUST hear this masterpiece!), "Xanadu" (live 1981 version) or "The Spirit of Radio". Enjoy your journey!
Thank you for this. As a music fan, but totally unskilled at any instrument, I love this breakdown. This is like watching a football coach go over the game and describe "because we see this, they're going to defend like that" and break down the plays. Love it. Keep rolling.
It's really cool to see how you enjoy music as a whole... You are literally appreciating not only Geddy Lee, but also Lerx's and Neil's (RIP) skills. It overflows with sympathy... I've loved the video. Not only because of the delicacy of your work, but because we realize that you are now the newest RUSH fan. Welcome to the club... Greetings from Brazil, kisses.
I'm really enjoying your discovery of RUSH! A very beautiful song by them was the last song on their last album is called "The Garden". On that song you will hear how Geddy has evolved his voice over time. So, there would be some more technical interest for you there as well. So much to explore. Have fun!
Loved the way you broke this down. Always loved them as a band and was lucky enough to see them live 5 times. As I got older I listened them in interviews and was even more impressed. Not just three great musicians and friends, but each of them individually are just good people. ❤
So nice to hear your enthusiasm!! Easily one of the top 5 rock bands all time. I know Lee’s voice not for everyone but I have always loved it. RIP Neil and thank you Rush!
So the more you dig into rush the more amazing individual songs you're going to find, and these are some of the tamest examples of Geddy Lee's range. No other group that I know of from that era has so many unique hits. Twilight Zone and A Passage to Bangkok really show-off his voice, but you can find another 10 much larger songs to really show off the groups mark on music history. They are getting a lot much recognition lately as our generation looks back for more unique sounds and they have it covered
Rush is amazing. The lyrics are incredible and so meaningful too they really speak to your humanity on some way. and the music is sooooo good, I can't believe it's a three piece band! i saw them live too and they really delivered the goods. incredible band. RIPNeil Peart
Goosebumps over Geddy's last six bass notes (and I have heard this song hundreds of times!). Loved this second Rush video of yours with your delightful reaction and enlightened commentary! Subscribed...
Theses are 3 of the greatest musicians to ever grace the Earth. Neil the lyricist was arguably the best drummer ever, Geddy the singer, bassist and keyboardist is arguably one of the greatest bass players of all time, and Alex is a very underrated guitarist although good guitarists will tell you he is amazing.
I love all the reactions from classical, music theater, and opera nerds. I went to music school for trumpet performance. But also play guitar and sing rock and roll. I learn something about singing pedagogy every time from you. You and the Charismatic Voice always make me smile. I am an old gen-x nerd, and you remind me of my daughters.
I felt in love with Rush the first time I heard them as a teenager and they are the only band that I still listen to regularly some 40 years later, all three are incredible musicians by themselves, but they mesh so well that together they are so much larger than the sum of the parts.It´s one of those bands that you either love them or don´t like them much, there’s not much of a middle ground.
Incredible group, and also one of my favorites. No one is a better bassist than Geddy, and no one comes close to matching the Timekeeper, Neil Peart, on percussion - RIP!
I am 57, but I didn't really discover Rush until the mid-1980s, a few years after this album "Moving Pictures" came out. If you've continued to listen to Rush, you've surely experienced the evolution of Rush's sound through the years. I remember reading that Geddy sang as high as he did so he could cut through the band's musical mix and be heard. Geddy's voice is part of the welcoming sound that Rush is to me.
As stated before, the bands lyricist, Neil Peart (also the drummer) is a master at telling a story through his lyrics. Being as well read as he is, he pulls from various books to bring his lyrics to life. This song was reflecting the bands amazement at how popularity can occur by being a rock band and how their music became so sought after, thus thrusting them into the Limelight! Rush is one of the most incredible bands to come from the 70s!
I've just discovered you and it's awesome that you are discovering RUSH. Love your comments and evaluations. I've been a fan since 1976. Around 1980 I bought their previous albums and have been a lifelong fan ever since. Been to a couple of dozen shows. You might imagine what they were like at a live performance. They have so much material it's tough to recommend to a newbie where to begin but you are off to a great start! I hope that you continue your exploration. And if I my say so, you are absolutely adorable.
Signals, no wait. 2112, no, Snakes and Arrows, wait, Hemispheres, no, Power Windows, nah, Grace under Pressure, what about Roll the Bones, counterparts, the debut album, Test for Echo…… We can do this all day.
Moving Pictures was the defining album that catapulted Rush into superstardom globally . They were popular before MP but MP especially with the hit Tom Sawyer made Rush into the mainstream of rock.
The best of reaction / breakdown to a song or video. You picked a great song, but you nailed so many of their strengths. I liked them younger. I love them now. 3 of the best musicians of all time. Excellent breakdown.
Definitely "Red Barchetta" next. It reall has that chill vibe that is a cruising down the highway music. Geddy Lee is an amazing bass player as well as a totally unique singer.
If you have reason to pay attention, after every high note in this piece, Geddy concludes the line with a three-step pitch reduction, back down into a theoretically spoken range. The perfect place from which to explicate or to climb high again.
Tom Sawyer is likely their best known song but they have a huge catalog to choose from. I'd suggest Xanadu, Subdivisions and maybe Fly By Night for a selection of their stuff
It's hard to believe that three people can sound so incredible. They were one of the greatest bands for two generations.
Rush was working band for 5+ decades
My choice as well. RUSH is was and will be the best, always.
Rush is the greatest band of all time. RIP Professor.
I tend to believe all of you because it's what I hear too. This coming from a BIG Zeppelin fan (nobody came close, bla bla bla), who thought Bonzo was God, but him and Neil are both Gods. That's the reality. Rush exceeded Zeppelin and many others in the small number of musicians used that creates a truly massive sound.
@@scottzappa9314 Agree 100% The list of great bands is long, so I wont bother but ZEP & RUSH along with the other Rock gods from the 60s, 70s, 80s, and part of the 90s will rule for a very long time, possibly forever. There never will be another band like RUSH or Zeppelin, or Queen or YES. Music isnt music today it's mass produced, auto tuned garbage with no soul.
Her enthusiasm is adorable, I mean that in the most respectful way. She’s great and obviously very knowledgeable.
That's so true 🎵🎶🎵🎤
It’s cool when someone who is trained in this discipline love the stuff I love.
This song was really personal to Neil Peart, who wrote the lyrics to 99% of all Rush songs. Neil really struggled with his fame. He was driven to be the best drummer he could possibly be, but he really didn’t like dealing with fans. He had a bit of a phobia when it came to meeting strange people.
He shares that in the lyric in the second verse, “I can’t pretend a stranger is a long awaited friend”. Neil was a shy introvert, who liked reading. It made him uncomfortable when people gushed over him and he obviously found it impossible to put on an act as though they were his friends.
Geddy and Alex used to do all of the meet and greet after the shows. They were both very social with a great sense of humor. Neil would typically sprint off stage and leap on his motorcycle, which he rode from city to city, following the tour.
It worried Geddy and Alex a lot that something might happen to him on the way to a show, but Neil was Neil and nothing could change his way. This song’s lyrics speak volumes about his person. He was living in the Limelight, but was actually a quiet, reserved individual and the best drummer in rock and roll music (RIP professor).
That's where the lyrics "I can't pretend a stranger is along awaited friend" come from. Thankfully the rest of his band mates realized it early on and took care of the media and fan meet and greets.
Neil shared a lot of himself in his books.
the man was a genius and his music will be listened to as long as the technology to hear it exists.
Neal was a badass
He was also paraphrasing Shakespeare.
One must put up barriers to keep oneself intact...... I cant pretend a stranger is a long awaited friend... best lyrics ever
I wish I could upvote your comment a million times. Those lyrics are so, so personal to Neil yet also describe a reality of humanity that many people never realize or, choose to deny. So beautifully written.
Sorry if I'm being pedantic, but intact is one word. It's meaning and what is meant would be changed. It matters only because they are great lyrics.
@@Darin.Pearson Are you saying Neil wrote the lyrics? Despite being born in '71 in upstate NY and hearing their music most of my life, I don't really know much about the band. The fellas themselves.
@rmg03c Yes, Neil wrote the lyrics from the "Fly by Night" album until their final album "Clockwork Angels". John Rutsey was their drummer on their first album. Alex and Geddy wrote the lyrics. John had to leave the band for health reasons. Rush then auditioned drummers and, fortunately for them and us, Neil auditioned and was chosen. Neil immediately started contributing lyrical ideas. Alex and Geddy recognized his talent and decided Neil was much better than they were as a lyricist. Not only that, he was prolific. Many of Neil's lyrics are renowned for their beauty, insight, and commentary on humanity. Neil was a voracious reader but, reading alone is not enough. I am a voracious reader and could never write like Neil did. Neil was a special talent.
@rmg03c Naturally, you can read about them on the Internet. A fun documentary about them is called "Beyond the Lighted Stage." That title is a play on the lyrics in "Limelight", the lyrics from which are the quote above on which I commented and which started this discussion. I believe you would really enjoy that documentary.
And let us not ignore the transcendental awesomeness of Alex Lifeson...
My favorite
Absolutely!!!@@ford-oz3vs
His playing has made my life very joyful❤️☄️
You mean guitar god Alex Lifeson, LOL. Cheers...
In any other band, Alex would be the star, but are all that way and Geddy and Neil are more distracting!
When I was a young sailor stationed at Meridian Mississippi, my co-worker and friend Darren Karstensen was a HUGE RUSH fan. As he put it " In the world of Rock no three persons ever made SO MUCH SOUND". Tragically we lost Darren Mar 07, 1984...only 15 months after I first met him. It was many years later before I dabbled into listening to Rush music but I now understand Darren's comment, and fascination of/for the group.
For those of us who have been listening for over 40 years, seeing someone coming to Rush is an unbridled delight. Welcome! Xanadu from Exit Stage Left will leave you speechless.
I fully agree!!!
It really is !!!
I concur.
I love the way The Trees ends and goes into Xanadu on Exit Stage Left!!! It’s like your are going into a trance and it’s freaking awesome!!! Xanadu is my favorite!
Fantastic recommendation!
This song is an absolute masterpiece
I will go to my grave believing Moving Pictures is the best album of all time. Writing, musicianship, engineering... I have simply never heard anything like it. It's perfection.
Totally agree - I believe that not only is it one of the best progressive rock albums it was the pinnacle of Rush’s career. I first listened to Moving Pictures during a Midnight Album Hour on WRNO New Orleans the day it was released and it just never gets old.
When I listen to this album , I turn it up to 11 and hear something different every time , especially when listening through headphones . In my top ten albums of all time , and I’ve listened to thousands of albums over the years , mainly due to working in a record shop for twenty years during the 80s and 90s ,
Totally agree. Seeing them play the entire album live in 2010 was life changing. Camera Eye live was one of highlights of the 19 times I saw them in concert.
@@redbarchetta4 the one and only time i was able to see them. they were in Canada across the river from my home town where i wasnt allowed to go to their 1977 concert (in my home town) because i was only 11 and my parents a) didnt go to concerts b) didnt have the money to go to concerts c) wouldnt have let me go alone anyway...
absolutely the best concert of my entire life and at least i can say i saw them, live, from 2 rows back of the barricade/pit
Spot on! While a lot of fantastic songs followed that album, none of those albums achieved the same overall level of greatness.
The song still blows me away today, as much as it did when I first heard it in 1981.
Very nice reaction.
Rush were famous for several reasons, but their ability to replicate studio recordings into flawless live performances set them above the rest.
They cared more about being great musicians than being popular. Pretty damn rare in any era or genre.
💯
Yes. One of the bands I'm sorry I never got to see in concert.
Exactly
Amen. Live they were the best band I ever watched.
Peart just lays out such a colorful canvas for Alex and Geddy to paint on, as well as adding his own colors to it. just brilliant players.
You're experiencing the wonder of Rush that some of us started having 40 years ago. IMO, since you like the studio setting with the combined views of them performing, it's time to watch "Tom Sawyer" also done at LeStudio. Probably considered their "signature" song, although by no means the last one you'll want to hear.....their discography is huge. As always, RIP to The Professor.
Some of us for over 50 years now. They outgrew Yonge St. bars in Toronto like the Gasworks very quickly.
@@mikebell0315 And some of us were lucky enough to see them back then. I saw them at the long gone Picadilly Tube
Yep. . .40 years here too.
Nobody else played like The Professor, with such intensity and precision. He is missed.
@@mikebell0315 plus, in Southern Michigan, played Coral Gables, the Rafters, and the Crazy Horse during the mid 70's, prior to Neil joining the band
CONGRATULATIONS on becoming a new member of the Rush entourage. Keep listening to them..🤙
Honorary Canadian.
Geddy lee literally is regarded as one of the greatest bass guitarist of all time + singing + keyboards + foot pedals + that hair
his hemispheres hair was his best hair. I have on my wall the photo of him in mid scream, playing the Rickenbacker, the turquois ring, DV DS 35 mic.... spectacular!!! 😊
When they were inducting YES into the Rock&Roll HOF, because Chris Squire was no longer there they needed a Bassist, and Rush was inducting them, they asked Geddy to sit in with them for the show
@@kevinmoore5053 Geddy did such a great job that evening; just playing in the background, recognizing that it was Yes’ night, and didn't make a big deal of himself.
+ that hair
Ahahahahahahahah!!!
Let's not forget his hair in Show of Hands... the pony hair!
He’s a genius
THEY ARE INCREDIBLE!! One of the greatest bands of all time.
“ the respect they are due” well said.
This has always been my favorite RUSH song. The intro grabs you, the lyrics give you a glimpse into the duality of being a brilliant performing act yet a shy individual, and the musical delivery is amazing. The drums are brilliant, captivating and precise, the guitar and bass work are stellar and Geddy's voice drives the emotion of the song to your heart. This song always made me appreciate that there are pros and cons to every avenue in life so do the best you can with the gifts you have and be thankful for your friends and experiences. Thanks for the reaction.
You summed this song up brilliantly.
@@chrispack7382I second that. This is my favorite Rush song also.
Same here. In fact this is my fav album too. Showcases their amazing musicianship in ways not seen before. RIP Professor 😢
One of the best opening riffs in music history.
And the way Neil comes in at the beginning is perfect
And the best outro in any song ever!!!
Sounds better on big speakers.
I agree. I always turn up the volume if I know it’s up next. ❤️
Alas Neil has exited the stage for good. This piece has always moved me in the sense of his being so vulnerable in his discomfort with the limelight. Now it brings me to tears, but not in a negative way. A mix of gratefulness, sadness, respect.
I'm so happy to see your unabashed enjoyment of Rush. Great music never goes out of style.
You will like Rush - Xanadu - Exit...Stage Left - Live 1981 (1080p)!!!
You have to bear in mind too that he is singing someone else's lyrics & he & Neil had a great respect & understanding regarding that. Geddy always said that he had to understand what Neil was talking about so that he could sing with conviction. Also Neil was so without ego that he would re-write entire parts if Geddy felt it was necessary. A small insight into why they were able to work together & remain great friends for more than 40 years.
Great comment, lack of ego’s definitely contributed to their greatness
Glorious....someone who did not grow up with Rush, knowing their greatness.......this still gives me goose bumps, over 40 years later...
For a more thorough education of the band’s talent, you might want to see them perform “Xanadu” live from Exit Stage Left. Life changing!! Thank you for your amazing content!!
Whilst a good song, it's a difficult one for first-time listeners to enjoy, moving as it does through many different parts over a long time period. I see reactioners of this song struggle with concentration because of that, though they do their best. Also, there's a lot more music in Xanadu than vocals.
Good point. Never thought of it that way.
A quick meaningless note: being black, I’m one of four blacks that I know who have been listening for years. Xanadu is one of my top three favorites of RUSH entire catalog and I have almost every song they created,, since I started listening in 76’ from seeing them on “Thr Midnight Special “
Yeah, Xanadu, whilst showcasing the band's musical prowess, doesn't really give a vocal coach a lot to work with. It's also way too long for a quick assessment of Geddy Lee's vocal range.
@@Emperor-Dra-of-TX Not at all a meaningless note, as I too became a fan back in the 70's!! Always great to hear from yet another fan!! Cheers!
I like how 8:26 her facial expressions change when Alex is playing the solo especially when he hits the note at 8:36. We’ve been having those expressions for over 40 years. Welcome 🤣
That solo and particularly that note, after these years, always brings a tear to my eyes. Is it a touch of nostalgia?
Rush on! Much greatness awaits around every bend. 😊.
@1:24 "I wanna go all the way back" we're all with you there 😀
Amazing how Geddy doesn't just sing but plays bass & keyboards too. What a multitasker ! The video was filmed at a recording studio outside of Montreal Canada called "Le Studio" which Rush has recorded there 6 times along with David Bowie, Celine Dion, Bryan Adams, Sarah McLachlan & Cat Stevens.
the first time i saw le studio was in an april wine song called i like to rock
Love to see someone discover the greatest prog rock band. You have a long journey ahead of you, and it's worth every listen, I first heard Rush in 75 and have never looked back.
I'm a big fan of Boston, too! But, I do look back. ✌️
So happy my older sister turned me onto RUSH when Moving Pictures came out. They have been my life band for the over 40 years now. Rest in Peace Neil.
It's always great to see a new convert to RUSH 🙂. They are as you say extremely gifted talents that had an amazing career. Sadly, The Professor is no longer with us, but he and his brothers have left us with a treasure trove of music. I look forward to more of your analysis of all things RUSH. Great job!
Next up, the medley of Broon's Bane/The Trees/Xanadu off of their live album "Exit...Stage Left". It is the tour that they did right after Moving Pictures and is a masterpiece.
I'm thrilled that you're not one of those people that are turned off by his voice. A lot of people think it's grating. I would strongly suggest checking out a song from before this one called Cygnus x-1 where he hits his highest notes in any Rush song. Then you need to check out something from the 90s when his voice is starting to get lower. I suggest coldfire because he has a really cool chesty quality when he sings that lyric. Then you need to hear resist from the late 90s, then go a little further into the 2000s he really struggles at this point because he's now well into his 40s. I suggest a song named Driven. Then to his final album I highly recommend you check out the garden there's a section where he really does struggle with his falsetto but pulls it off. This song in my opinion was their best song ever and ironically their last song.
Agree. I can see why people are turned off by his voice. I personally love it. My favourite era is the 70's. But I love all the era's of Rush. Good choice with Cygnus X-1, probably my favourite Rush song. I love his shrieking at the end of the song!!.
I cannot think of another voice that would fit this style of music as well as Geddys does.
This is awesome. I love that with your recommendations you give a sneak peek into the different vocal nuances with each one!
@@TheVocalyst I can attest to everything he said...I'm a 45 yr Rush listener.
@@SnowDogisVictorious “Presentation” is so good at showing his dynamic range as he vocalizes the two characters.
After listening to them on radio and recorded media, I initially saw Rush in 1982 in ATL, and followed that up with another 7 shows through the years, culminating in their farewell tour. To say that I’m still enthralled by their music is an understatement.
When I think about it, it was really brave for us to cover this song at a music festival back in high school in 1987, which was clearly far from perfect, but at that time we were proud to be able to perform live in front of an audience.
@-TheVocalyst0 Another fake account trying to fool me? Why can't youtube filter out annoying stuff like this?
I'm happy for you to not only discover RUSH, but your appreciation of the individual talents is what I find most heart warming and respectful. I will add, Geddy not only plays bass and sings (which is a herculean task) but he also plays keyboards and foot pedals, sometimes all in the same song. Incredible talent. Watch an instrumental by them called Xanadu live Exit Stage Left 1981 if you want to see them all shine. It was what the band said as one of their hardest, most nuanced compositions
Great reaction! Remember that the drummer is the lyricist… so he’s able to write drum parts for time AND for the vocal performance… making all of the above rhythmically coherent. 😊
Their talent is astounding! Thank you for digging into one of the best bands of all time 😊
I've seen a lot of concerts and I was fortunate enough to see Rush live several times. They were the only band I ever saw that sounded exactly like they did on their albums every single time. Sure they added in some amazing solos and extended jams but the songs themselves were always played perfectly, just like on the albums. Truly an amazing band. Its really fun watching a newbie getting into the band. Welcome aboard!
To hear Geddies full vocal range try one of their 20 minute epics like 2112 or The Fountains of Lamneth. Love watching you discover my favorite band and luckily you have decades worth of goat level musicianship to delve into. 😊
Another great reaction.....absolutely spot on with the voice appraisal.....also so cool to see you enjoying Rush's music so much.👏👏
Limelight has wonderful melody and is a technical work out. Very atmospheric and beautiful. A joy to hear it again.
I agree it's the song that turned me on to Rush, what took the Rock & Roll hall of fame so long to to induct them Limelight alone was a good enough to induct them let alone the rest of their great music.
The best band ever. PERIOD. ❤
Thank you for such an insightful analysis of this man's vocal abilities. His voice has caused many to lose their minds and heavily criticize him for it, but also caused many to absolutely love him for it, too.
Your channel just popped up tonight. No wonder, one of my favorite bands of my youth. In 1976, friends and myself were walking around the Hammond civic center in Indiana. Rush was playing that night. We had no tickets. I guess we were just curious. All of a sudden a door pops open and some guy comes out and asks if we needed tickets. That night we sat off to the side of the stage and experienced Rush. 17 years old. By the time I was 20 I had invested about $2500 in a stereo system. A lot back then. Rush 2112 was my favorite album to play on it. I was in another world listening to them. Thank you for reconnecting me to Rush with your sincere excitement for them. I can still experience it.
I've always felt this song is an EXCELLENT example of how silence can be used as another virtual instrument in a song. This song uses a LOT of time signature changes and the use of "nothing" instrumental wise (while the vocals often continue) is masterful.
I saw them live in Nova Scotia Canada twice in my life. As we have always said in Canada, it’s hard to believe three guys can make so much noise :) all joking aside they’re incredible.
You might like the video “Rush Live in Rio” if you haven’t seen it already :) the band had a huge following in rio Brazil. Mostly male. They were considered poets. When they played their famous instrumental YYZ (which is the call sign for Toronto Canada international airport, their home base) you’ll see and hear tens of thousands of Brazilian men dancing and yelling to the song. I remember geddy talking about how they showed up there with millions of dollars in gear having no idea they were going to have such a wonderful time. It was amazing after all their success to see how humble they all were about this. Good Canadians :) makes me proud. Seeing them live made me realize just how talented and creative they are, and the famous chicken cookers onstage (with the stage hand dressed in a chicken costume coming out to do the basting) was hilarious. Anyways I’ve watched a number of your videos now and enjoy them. I always tried to sing like steve Perry, to no avail lol but when I’m alone in the car I belt it out anyways lol. Cheers
It is a beautiful thing when I hear musicians discover Rush and deeply appreciate what they did. Another key element here were Neil Peart's (drummer) lyrics and how rhythmic it was allowing Geddy to articulate accordingly. Sometimes it was a challenge for Geddy to fit words within a particular measure given that Neil was an extremely literate and poetic writer. Pure genius band.
Can never say enough about Rush, nice to her analysis
I have become a fast fan of you!
Thank you for seeing how amazing this band is and why.
You have no idea how great they are. Glad I got to see them live.
LOVE love love
Its so thrilling to watch a new fan get it immediately and get hooked. It's not so much a fandom as a recognition of genius
I just love watching her falling in love with Rush. This is one of my all time favourite Rush songs and likely my favourite opening riff of any rock tune.
I remember reading that Geddy’s vocal range spans over three octaves. RUSH wrote the epic “2112”, a multi-part 20+ minute piece that shows how expansive his range is and how he can change from the high end and amazingly switch down to the lower end.
The music of my life ... introduced at 15 and they were my go to until the end of their career ... there will never be another band that can do what they did with nothing but pure talent, no tech wizardry
Great reaction. I love the way your face scrunches up when you hear Geddy hit those high notes. I've been a fan since the mid 70's and love all their music. I recommend Red Barchetta for your next reaction.
Three incredible, talented people put together is a recipe for success big time !!! Soundman has vocals up loud, with some perfect effects... Thats rock n roll ...
Thank you for respecting a great genra. Their melodies and rock chords are amazing. All 3 were musical geniuses.
Much respect for researching and learning. This band is special. These guys are elite musicians and humble humans.
I'm glad you didn't wait too long for another Rush tune! Nice choice too 😎The respect and joy that you show discovering these guys just warms my heart. Yup, you get Rush not everyone does.
Best rush song. The chunk on that opening riff is fantastic.
I have never seen (or heard) a band that can switch time signatures seamlessly like this band. 3 killer musicians at their peak!
Now you know why we RUSH fans are so dedicated to this incredible band 🙂 I'm so glad you're giving them another listen and promise that the further you go down the "rabbit hole" of RUSH the more you will fall in love with them. Some suggestions are "2112" (you MUST hear this masterpiece!), "Xanadu" (live 1981 version) or "The Spirit of Radio". Enjoy your journey!
Thank you for this. As a music fan, but totally unskilled at any instrument, I love this breakdown. This is like watching a football coach go over the game and describe "because we see this, they're going to defend like that" and break down the plays. Love it. Keep rolling.
Rip Neil Peart! 😞Such a terrible loss for all of us...
It's really cool to see how you enjoy music as a whole...
You are literally appreciating not only Geddy Lee, but also Lerx's and Neil's (RIP) skills.
It overflows with sympathy... I've loved the video. Not only because of the delicacy of your work, but because we realize that you are now the newest RUSH fan.
Welcome to the club...
Greetings from Brazil, kisses.
Brazilians GET Rush and we appreciate you
@@4ClassicmarketingG tku so very much dear...
I'm really enjoying your discovery of RUSH! A very beautiful song by them was the last song on their last album is called "The Garden". On that song you will hear how Geddy has evolved his voice over time. So, there would be some more technical interest for you there as well. So much to explore. Have fun!
Incredible. Thank you for your thoughtful, educational feedback.
One of the most distinctive and effective and musical rock voices ever. Underappreciated for too long. Glad you're helping to set things straight.
Loved the way you broke this down. Always loved them as a band and was lucky enough to see them live 5 times. As I got older I listened them in interviews and was even more impressed. Not just three great musicians and friends, but each of them individually are just good people. ❤
So nice to hear your enthusiasm!! Easily one of the top 5 rock bands all time.
I know Lee’s voice not for everyone but I have always loved it.
RIP Neil and thank you Rush!
So the more you dig into rush the more amazing individual songs you're going to find, and these are some of the tamest examples of Geddy Lee's range. No other group that I know of from that era has so many unique hits. Twilight Zone and A Passage to Bangkok really show-off his voice, but you can find another 10 much larger songs to really show off the groups mark on music history. They are getting a lot much recognition lately as our generation looks back for more unique sounds and they have it covered
Rush is amazing. The lyrics are incredible and so meaningful too they really speak to your humanity on some way. and the music is sooooo good, I can't believe it's a three piece band! i saw them live too and they really delivered the goods. incredible band. RIPNeil Peart
The most unique voice in Rock!
Goosebumps over Geddy's last six bass notes (and I have heard this song hundreds of times!). Loved this second Rush video of yours with your delightful reaction and enlightened commentary! Subscribed...
Theses are 3 of the greatest musicians to ever grace the Earth. Neil the lyricist was arguably the best drummer ever, Geddy the singer, bassist and keyboardist is arguably one of the greatest bass players of all time, and Alex is a very underrated guitarist although good guitarists will tell you he is amazing.
I love all the reactions from classical, music theater, and opera nerds. I went to music school for trumpet performance. But also play guitar and sing rock and roll. I learn something about singing pedagogy every time from you. You and the Charismatic Voice always make me smile. I am an old gen-x nerd, and you remind me of my daughters.
This song changes time signature TWENTY FIVE times in the first minute, and it's very hard to hear it. That's good musicianship.
I felt in love with Rush the first time I heard them as a teenager and they are the only band that I still listen to regularly some 40 years later, all three are incredible musicians by themselves, but they mesh so well that together they are so much larger than the sum of the parts.It´s one of those bands that you either love them or don´t like them much, there’s not much of a middle ground.
Incredible group, and also one of my favorites. No one is a better bassist than Geddy, and no one comes close to matching the Timekeeper, Neil Peart, on percussion - RIP!
Uh...Chris Squire (R.I.P.) was Geddy Lee's hero and biggest influence.
I have seen Rush 3 times & Yes just once but Both are incredible.
3 of the greatest at thier instruments unbelievable musicians.
I am 57, but I didn't really discover Rush until the mid-1980s, a few years after this album "Moving Pictures" came out. If you've continued to listen to Rush, you've surely experienced the evolution of Rush's sound through the years. I remember reading that Geddy sang as high as he did so he could cut through the band's musical mix and be heard. Geddy's voice is part of the welcoming sound that Rush is to me.
Personally, I wasn't much a fan of their stuff after Moving Pictures, but absolutely love this album and before.
my all-time favourite Rush solo
This was probably my favorite album. Every song slapped. I also like Signals a lot. If you like the synthier Rush, “The Analog Kid” is a great song
Captivating, exciting but soothing is pretty much a perfect description of Rush. Nicely observed.
As a musician I am honored and thankful to have seen RUSH live many times. One of many best concerts to experience.
As stated before, the bands lyricist, Neil Peart (also the drummer) is a master at telling a story through his lyrics. Being as well read as he is, he pulls from various books to bring his lyrics to life. This song was reflecting the bands amazement at how popularity can occur by being a rock band and how their music became so sought after, thus thrusting them into the Limelight! Rush is one of the most incredible bands to come from the 70s!
I've just discovered you and it's awesome that you are discovering RUSH. Love your comments and evaluations. I've been a fan since 1976. Around 1980 I bought their previous albums and have been a lifelong fan ever since. Been to a couple of dozen shows. You might imagine what they were like at a live performance. They have so much material it's tough to recommend to a newbie where to begin but you are off to a great start! I hope that you continue your exploration. And if I my say so, you are absolutely adorable.
Moving Pictures was probably the greatest album they had so many hits including Limelight 🤘👍😁🎶🎵🎤🎸
Nah, farewell and hemi was peak, fly by and caress up there too, post hemi involved their Duran Duran phase which lost me
@@brendanroberts4866 we have identical rush views. when did you start liking them again? snakes and arrows or clockwork angels
2112
Signals, no wait. 2112, no, Snakes and Arrows, wait, Hemispheres, no, Power Windows, nah, Grace under Pressure, what about Roll the Bones, counterparts, the debut album, Test for Echo……
We can do this all day.
Moving Pictures was the defining album that catapulted Rush into superstardom globally
. They were popular before MP but MP especially with the hit Tom Sawyer made Rush into the mainstream of rock.
The best of reaction / breakdown to a song or video. You picked a great song, but you nailed so many of their strengths. I liked them younger. I love them now. 3 of the best musicians of all time. Excellent breakdown.
Definitely "Red Barchetta" next. It reall has that chill vibe that is a cruising down the highway music. Geddy Lee is an amazing bass player as well as a totally unique singer.
Geddy's voice just pulls you back to the middle. Lots of stuff going on. Magic.
Their songwriting abilities cannot be overlooked as well
i love the way you respect the history of music! they were Icons! your smile is fantastic! hope you never lose it!
Greatest band in the galaxy. Yet the rock and roll hall of fame SNUBBED them for 14 YEARS before finally inducting them in 2013.
If you have reason to pay attention, after every high note in this piece, Geddy concludes the line with a three-step pitch reduction, back down into a theoretically spoken range. The perfect place from which to explicate or to climb high again.
Geddy’s voice is a 1 of 1…
Rush is unparalleled and
Unrivaled in Rock history.
Correct
All I can say is Go Geddy Go. What a unique singing voice.
Tom Sawyer is likely their best known song but they have a huge catalog to choose from. I'd suggest Xanadu, Subdivisions and maybe Fly By Night for a selection of their stuff
Your newfound exuberance and passion for Rush.... ALL THE HEARTS!