thank goodness - Rush needs to stay unique. Other bands have been influenced by them, which I think is a great spot to be in. LONG LIVE RUSH, RIP Neil. You definitely left your mark on the music world. You will be misseed.
I saw Rush live once and it was the best show I've ever been to, time absolutely flew by and I was fortunate to get to sit next to other big Rush fans in the audience. Literally a 3 hour show
It is to be noted that they were in their late 50s, when this was recorded and there are plenty of performers in their 20s, that could not even come close to matching that.
@@TheEternalWayfarer No this is not so common, I know plenty of people that went to tours or reunion tours of legendary groups and told me that it was pathetic and they should have retired or stayed retired, so not so common to still be this good that late in the game.
The old joke goes, Eddie van Halen was once asked what it was like to be the best guitarist on Earth. He replied, "I don't know...why don't you ask Alex Lifeson!"
@@ShawnBoikethemaharishi only problem is.....it never happened. That quote has been used several times since the late 60’s as it turns out. Starting with Johnny Carson asking Hendrix the question and Jimi responding you’d have to ask Phil Keanu. My first hearing of this nuggets iwas supposedly Eric Clapton being asked what it was like to be the worlds greatest guitarist to which his supposed response was I don’t know, ask Prince. In any event I have been unable to find any verification of it for Clapton/Prince or EVH/Lifeson and Snopes says false, urban legend with no verifiable sourcing.
@@jhc2093 Eddie did say one thing recorded about Rush. When he was asked how complex Van Halen music was he said "We're not Rush" or something like that. The interview is on youtube somewhere and you can hear him say it.
The cool thing about Rush is how they managed to stay best friends even 40 years in. You hear so many stories of band members hating each other. Especially with bands that have been together that long. But that never happened with Rush. In fact, Geddy & Alex have been best friends since they were kids. And that's probably why the music was so good. They never felt forced to be there and to play with each other. They wanted to. And they never tried to hold each other back either so that they could get their shit in. Rush is a band where every band member is important.
What are the odds that Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson would be in the same highschool class. Apparently the two of them met Neil Peart at a school event. While he didn't join the band until much later it was certainly a serendipitous meeting and we are all better off for it.
Rub it in why don't you, you bastard!! I live in Australia, so no Rush tours here, ever. I did have the good fortune to see the Presto and Counterparts tours in Montreal.
How great was that?! Nothing beats a Rush concert!! The fans are the best and most fun crowd!! I was in the 5th row for that concert as well, but in Las Vegas... Loved every second and will miss those those forever now
VanillaThunder I’m realizing now, that he deserves to be in the Top 10 as the greatest guitarists ever, probably top 5. He’s gotten overshadowed by Neil Peart & Geddy Lee, because how good they are, and they have more active with the band.
Well, when your band of only three has arguably the best or tied for best of all time drummer and bassist, then you unfortunately have to be number three. But Alex is awesome nonetheless.
The main reason Alex seems underrated, is mostly because there is a lot more competition at the guitar. Over the decades, since the beginning of metal, the guitarists often took center stage, after vocalists of course. There have been so many great guitarist, including Alex, that everyone’s list can become very long. There have been some really great drummers too, but not nearly as many of them as guitarists. Think about it, most people can tell you the name of every vocalist for every famous metal band, nearly as many can also name the lead guitarist, but after that, only the most dedicated fans of a group can name the drummer and then even less can name the bass player. People who can’t name one Rush song can name the drummer. Peart has been a legend since 2112 in 1976. Geddy is such an exceptional bass player and also the lead vocalist, so of course he’s going to be memorable. For Alex, it’s the exact opposite, because even casual fans can name the drummer, almost as many can name Geddy, but the lead guitarist is the one that mostly only real fans of the group know and those fans also know he is one of the best to ever strap on a guitar. He is probably as well known as any other lead guitarist for a band, but Geddy and Neil are just so ridiculously famous because their field is far less competitive, with exceptional musicians. There just aren’t very many bassists at Geddy’s level and even fewer drummers in Peart’s league. In order for Alex to get the attention of the other two, he would have to also play a 12 string with his feet while playing a solo. Most other guitarists thrive on the attention, almost as much as front men (that includes front women). Most hotdogging lead guitarists get to step into the spotlight on every song, as they rip into their solo. Alex does something they can’t do; he allows the other two to shine. He never steals the song. His solos are tasteful and what fits best in the song, not how many 32nd notes he can I rip in every solo. Lifeson’s priority was the music, not the fame. I know from being a guitarist and playing in bands that it is much easier to rip out a great hotdogging solo if the other members are laying back, just giving you a great, easy progression, like a simple blues progression in A or Amin. When the bass is as complex as Geddy plays, you are far more limited on what you can play. Your piece really needs to be well written, to stay with the key changes, not to mention the time signature and tempo changes in many Rush songs. That is why you rarely hear Alex going off on some tangent and doing a lot of improvising live. He stays exactly with the written solo most of the time. Working Man is from their very early years, a much simpler time. No major key changes, it mostly stays in E. This is one time Alex can go crazy, and we see what he can do when unleashed here at this concert. He proves he belongs at the top of anyone’s guitarists list. The first solo in La Villa Strangiato is another piece where there is an opportunity for him to go nuts. Even though La Villa Stragiato is an extremely complicated and difficult song, the piece for the first solo is a straight progression of A to F and back to A again, repeating those two notes for the entire solo. That’s why Lifeson has improvised a lot on that solo over the years. It was written as bluesy kind of piece, with a bit of a throwback guitar solo, more like something you’d expect from Carlos Santana or Stevie Ray Vaughn, and Alex always delivers that quality of a solo every time, proving he belongs in the company of guitarists like Santana and SRV. I have seen Rush live on every tour since Permanent Waves and Lifeson is just unbelievable. Anyone who has never seen Rush live, has no idea how good he really is. The best thing about Rush is the lack of egos and Lifeson doesn’t have the ego of the typical guitarist in his league, so he never mugged for the spotlight. None of these guys from Rush were whores for media attention, which is why none of them ever married some hot super model or actress for a short marriage that unfortunately, wasn’t short enough to prevent kids from being born and thrust into the spotlight as their parents make fools of themselves in front of the whole world, including their kid’s friends and their enemies. These guys were regular, down home Canadian boys and all the money and fame never changed them. So don’t feel sorry for Alex, because he never cared if he was top of everyone’s guitarists list. All three of these guys just wanted to make music that please their faithful fans who supported them, making it possible for them to stand opposed to the corporatized, over processed, repetitious, garbage their label pressured them to make, but instead make the kind of music they could be proud of. Everyone of us Rush fans played a part in that. Supporting them through the decades, so they could keep making more and more of the kind of music we like and respect. In the 40+ years Rush was around, so many other bands came and went. Selling far more records and being far more popular, at least for their 15 minutes, which is how long it seemed for many of them. Yet, Rush continued on, for another 30+ years after many of these other one hit wonders were playing small clubs trying to milk as much as they could from their one or two hits. I wonder how many people had to listen to those bands playing all of their other crappy songs from past albums, waiting for them to finally play that one or two songs they actually knew the words to? Not at a Rush concert. Even when they did 3 hour shows, they didn’t scratch the surface of their catalog of great songs. They have so many incredible songs and anyone who has been to a Rush concert knows that the majority of the fans know every lyric to every song they play. You can hear them singing proudly, even to the deep cuts from every album. That’s no “one hit wonder” crowd. That’s people deeply invested into a group they love.
The Clockwork Angels tour had fair amount of explosions and fireworks, but you are correct. I seen Rush probably 20+ times and it was always about the performance!
And a crowd that ripped right along with them. Just as into it as the band was. It was an electrifying experience. The band always gave 150% on stage, and the audience gave it right back to them. It was such an amazing thing to be a part of. No other concert I've ever been to ever came close to what a Rush concert was like.
That was fun to watch guys. The expressions on your faces? Priceless! Rush may not be your particular brand of music, but as musicians and performers, you guys clearly recognize that Rush was a special band. More and more younger people are getting hip to how unique and ridiculously talented this band was. Even if Rush is not your type of music, any band can still learn from the lunch pail, workmanlike professionalism and sheer synergy as a performing unit. True masters of the craft and all done with artistic integrity without compromise. Good luck on your own journey!
I've never heard of anyone say that any member of Rush 'phoned' in their performance...EVER...sure they may have had an off night, not feeling well, etc., but I've not heard of them giving less than 100% each and every night! They are a testament to performance artists!
This is the song that broke them out in the USA. Donna Halper a DJ and music director at WMMS in Cleveland is accredited for playing the song on the station which became popular with the working class city. The response resulted in a record deal for the band, which gave her special thanks for her part in their early history and dedicated their first two albums to her! This is why Cleveland is so important to the band.
This song is an encore after a nearly three hour show performed by three musicians in their (at this time) late 50s or early 60s and they were still showing the younger folk how it’s done.
AND *"YYZ" (why why zed).* when else will you get to hear a crowd in the tens of thousands(they filled a soccer stadium), singing along with an *'instrumental'?*
This was the first release from their first album in 1974, and it was presented to America in Cleveland. This performance was in Cleveland, so call it a love letter to the city.
Besides RUSH gotten their break in Cleveland, term Rock N Roll was coined by DJ Alan Freed in early 50's at a radio station in Cleveland too. Naturally, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is located in Cleveland.
This band is so freaking awesome. The longevity alone is incredible. They loved their fans. They loved making music and performing. Greatest band ever!🤘🤘🍁🍁🍁🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦
Doc, so true! Only thing I think is other underrated three piece band triumph! Seen them up front in the mid 80’s, best concert ever, and great guitarist !
You can see, even at their age, that this is what they love. I've seen them 5 times and they have never ever disappointed. Just jamming out and pulling the crowd in. Great musicians and performers
Working Man was from their first album and it was the song that got them their break in America when a Cleveland DJ started playing it on the radio. People were calling in asking for the new Led Zeppelin song. I didn't discover them until I heard the album 2112 in 1976. You need to check out the epic song 2112 which took up side one from their fourth album. You may find a live video on RUclips but I am not sure if will be complete. I would recommend the video with the accompanying illustrations which helps with the story behind the song but the song itself is killer especially 2112 Overture/Temples of Syrinx. Finding a good live video that would be worthwhile.
Donna Halper, and they never forgot her either. They took her with them to every Awards ceremony, every major concert or special. These dudes were the most superior human beings then I ever saw.
So glad I am old enough to have seen these guys several times. 1st Tour for me was moving Pictures. I am a grease monkey. This song is played loudly from my speakers on my tool box once a day..every day. Now the whole shop rocks out to Rush at least once a day. How man working men out there?? The lyrics to this song are my life.
I have watched probably 10-12 different reaction videos to this tune and everyone who watches this is blown away and rightfully so. This live version is a complete face melter🤯! I love how Geddy and Alex get to just let it it all hang out🎸. The real reason for my comment though is the crowd. The crowd is absolutely into it and probably one of the loudest audiences I've heard on a live recording! I think the crowd really brings it all together! Love it👏! RIP Professor 😢
I have been privileged to see them six times in many years past. I am privileged to have lived in the same time as such artists and been in the presence of their music from their own hands and hearts. I will forever cherish them as the greatest band of all time, with three of the greatest musicians of all time. RIP Professor, your insights were truly profound.
Rush owes a lot to Cleveland radio back when they were starting out. WMMS Played Working Man when no other stations would play it. So that's why they filmed this video in Cleveland! They never forgot their Roots and who helped them get started in the music industry! True Story!
Playing the first song they ever wrote 40 plus years ago with the energy level like it’s their first tour. That is very rare. A lot of groups play their old songs like they’re sick of playing them
Thanks guys.4:55 and 5:45 is why I've recommended you check this out. Glad you appreciated it. A lot to learn from a song recorded in 1973 that still resonates today.
Your reactions were as awesome as mine watching you! I even threw my arms in the air and hollered “Are you ‘effing’ kidding me?!!” I love RUSH but never saw that before!! Great video, great reactions! RUSH RULES!!
And you have to remember this song was written very early in their career and is one of the favorites every time they play it it was one of the songs that really turned me on to this band when I was a very young kid I was probably 12 years old one of the greatest bands ever. May Neil Peart Rest In Peace
Keep in mind this was the encore. Also I believe that this song was what paved the way for them to become popular in the United States. 100.7 WMMS (based in Cleveland) was the first American station to play Rush on the radio.
They were not only band mates but also were truly best friends! You can see that in their performances that they were constantly joking around with each other. Doin' what the love and lovin' what they do!!
I had been hearing them play that song live since 1977. As much as I love that song, it's just a little sad because I remember that's the last song they ever played. It was fitting that they went out with the song that got them noticed. The Time Machine Tour was a special tour they did when one of their most popular albums, Moving Pictures, turned 30 years old. They "went back in time" and played the entire album from beginning to end as the opening of the 2nd act.
Not only was it the song that got them noticed, but it was in Cleveland where the radio station first played that song. They were paying homage back to that great city!
Great reactions so far for Rush. Try "Dinner with RUSH". It's the three of them eating, drinking, laughing and drinking. Just three good friends sharing a wonderful evening together. Very rare to see this type of friendship in the music industry.
I was 12th Row for that show in Greensboro North Carolina. It cost me $600, I thought that was ridiculous at the time, and now I would spend four times that much!
Rush must have been careful about where they went on tour, because some of the things Geddy and Alex did with their guitars are probably banned in 37 states.
You guys want to be shocked, there is a pretty good black and white video Rush “Anthem” or “bastille day” 1976( one of their harder songs) , they’re in their 1970’s garb , Geddy voice is stellar .....they had just come out with their fourth album 2112
Thank you, thank you, thank you! This was just about 30 years after the Xanadu video you reacted to the other day... 30 years in which they just got better, and better.
BOTH OF YOU ARE GREAT...A MUSICIAN MYSELF ...DRUMS, SINGER AND LYRICIST..LOVE YOUR PASSION! HAVE SEEN RUSH 117 TIMES. RIP MY MENTOR NEIL!! TRAV ..LUCKY MAN SUZIE Q is GORGEOUS, SMART AND CAPTIVATING SMILE...GOD BLESS BOTH OF YOU! KEEP ROCKING..
So many emotions.. I saw this show in London, but watching this now brings out all the emotions not to want to put a dampener on it.. after seeing them many times and it is a rush watching Rush! 40+ years on the road refining their art, we won't see them again :( thank you for keeping the memories alive! They were a very special band!
I've been a Rush fan since the early eighties. Best 3 man band ever, Possibly the best, ever. There Catalog spans 40 years, 167 songs. They are amazing. I love seeing young people like yourselves get into this legendary band.
I.... have NEVER since 2112, heard these guy TEAR OFF into indescribable RIFFS,BARS,and MINDBENDINGNESS that they just performed like they were opening the door for an elderly lady! BLOWED THE LAST FEW CELLS I HAD LEFT......
I appreciate your humility as musicians which is why I subscribed. The comment made at the end, "we could learn a thing or two from that," speaks volumes and will now watch your personal band's music and see your evolution.
Saw them live twice. Once was on the Time Machine tour. Listening to them since the 70's. What a band. Ok, suggestion: LA VILLA STRANGIATO. You will be BLOWN AWAY. :) Peace.
Anything live from Rush you will enjoy. Their last tour, R40, the Roadies came onstage and changed the stage to match what album they were playing from and the concert was done chronologically, beginning with their latest album, Clockwork Angels from their debut album in 74 or was it 73? In either case, concert began with that backdrop and ended with a chair, a marshall amp and microphone... Bittersweet as I said before.. but so amazing.
Great reaction! You should listen to the original to hear the difference in voice and style. Both versions are excellent. I think it's time for La Villa Strangiato - official music video. Probably better requested on the site . . . .
how many 3 man bands can put out the sound these 3 permeate the air with? true masters of their crafts.... saw them 40 yrs ago in a little arena in London Ont. amazing
Cleveland broke these guys and Cleveland is where they do it the best. This concert was great. Miss this kind of stuff (real music, talented musicians, giant concerts, the energy)
Thank you for not just going through the motions on your reactions. I don't care if you like the bands you react to or not but you definitely watch and pay attention and I admire that. Keep it up.
Keep in mind that they were in their sixties, outdoing 20somethings with all that energy. You were absolutely right in saying they were having fun, cause they were. Alex and Teddy have been best of friends since middle school, then Neil was added in 1974. He was not on the original recording, that was John Rutsey (rip as well). Neil joined just before their 1st US tour. Just a group of great guys.
Rush first debuted in the US on Cleveland radio station WMMS thanks to an astute young music director from Massachusetts, Donna Halper, and me being a resident was the beneficiary of that serendipity. The song was working man off of their titular album Rush
This is the performance that separates the men from the boys. This chemistry takes decades to acquire and Rush right here, demonstrates how you do it. Start off nice an cool-like, all chilled and groovy, then take it up a notch and rock it out, then just for shits & giggles, take it to another level of musicianship as if it was a stroll in the park. 40 years + of hard work and perfection on display right there. Rock gods of the highest order.
I do believe that was the last concert and the last song they played on stage together. After that gig Neil Peart ( The Professor) retired. I also believe it was 2015.
No buddy, sorry. This was part of the Time Machine tour in 2011. After that they did Clockwork Angels which I also saw in the UK in 2013. They played one other tour after that (R40, 2015), and then Neil declared he was retiring because, as you say, couldn't he carry on due to the pain of such a physically punishing task. Incredible, wonderful, perfect 3 piece symphony orchestra. 🙏 RIP Professor...😥
Great rendition love the Jamaica vibe. Glad you enjoyed it. I was lucky enough to see these guys something like 15 times over the years starting with the Hemispheres tour. I took my son to see rush on the Time Machine tour. If you can find it watch the whole show. It was one of my favorites
Enjoy your reactions! Rush leaves you speechless, and the live versions make them more impressive! Btw, Cleveland was their breakout town in the US when a DJ played the song and got numerous calls inquiring about the new 'Zeppelin' album! I'm a Toronto guy and that's where their heart is, but Cleveland will always hold a special place in theirs!
That performance was iconic!! I actually photographed them live in Texas on this tour for a magazine. For a different type of performance from this Cleveland show but also amazing I HIGHLY, HIGHLY recommend "Marathon"!!!!
Now you know why weve been going to see them for decades. We hit 8 shows on R40, including the opener in Tulsa, MSG and the last one at the LA Forum. RIP Neil.
@@lvgelfling72 we did Tulsa Lincoln Columbus Philly Newark MSG Kansas City and LA. We also went to their induction to the HOF at the Staples Center. We went to SARS in TO. Im stuck on 59 forever and my pal is on 79. We met in 82 and started going to shows then. He first saw them in 78.
@@lvgelfling72 now we wear our RUSH jackets to go see The Rush Tribute Project from the Milwaukee area. They are 3 great guys and very talented. I have put some video up and they have their own and other fans do as well. We had tickets for 2 shows last spring b4 all this crap started. One date has been reset in Indiana and we are waiting for the St Charles ILL show to be reset. Indiana show in December. My pal and I had been going to see all the legends we could before this virus stuff. Blue Oyster Cult and TOTO were really great shows we saw. We have some serious RUSH jackets. We might donate these to the HOF....maybe. My pin jacket has over 400 RUSH pins and weighs over 8 lbs. My pal has a group of amazing patch jackets. I did pins and he did patches.
@@rushfan9thcmd oh how awesome!! I will check out your videos! So you any pics of the jackets?? The guy who introduced me to Rush, the second time, is my concert buddy also! I became a fan late in the game, like 96 or so. My friend, on the other hand, saw them in 81 or 82 for the first time, in Frankfurt or maybe Mannheim? I'm not sure... He's got a ton more concerts under his belt, but I'm super happy to have seen them as many times as I have. I'm also glad we started spending the money for the VIP tickets, because we live in Vegas and unfortunately most of the front seats are reserved for hotel VIPs, so it is definitely worth it. Otherwise we are 25 rows back or something. Still so sad over Neil's passing and that we won't get to see anymore live shows (selfish me). Looking forward to the end of virus so Primus gets back on tour. Already have our tickets for that tribute your.. just on hold.
![Rush ~ Xanadu ~ Exit Stage Left [1981] The Wolf HunterZ Reactions](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/P2FLmpcb1Lw/mqdefault.jpg)
There will never be a band like them ever again. Not. Ever.
Rest In Peace, Neil Peart 😥😥😥😥😥
thank goodness - Rush needs to stay unique. Other bands have been influenced by them, which I think is a great spot to be in. LONG LIVE RUSH, RIP Neil. You definitely left your mark on the music world. You will be misseed.
Amen brother amen
Violator41 You said a mouth full there, sir.
Rush is gone.... there is no Rush without Neil.
Best band ever , beyond contestation
Rush live was a three hour experience with a 30+ song set list. No opening band required. Best live shows I’ve ever seen. Cheers!
Totally agree !!!
Ya seen them 3 time's no other band compares to them live they're the best
I saw Rush live once and it was the best show I've ever been to, time absolutely flew by and I was fortunate to get to sit next to other big Rush fans in the audience. Literally a 3 hour show
It is to be noted that they were in their late 50s, when this was recorded and there are plenty of performers in their 20s, that could not even come close to matching that.
@Shallex I am talking about the energy level.
shuriken48 how true!
@@shuriken4852 And this was the end of a nearly 3 hour concert
It is full of performers who in their 50s, 60s, 70s are better than they were in their 20s, 30s, 40s. That is what they call being professionals.
@@TheEternalWayfarer No this is not so common, I know plenty of people that went to tours or reunion tours of legendary groups and told me that it was pathetic and they should have retired or stayed retired, so not so common to still be this good that late in the game.
Ladies and gentlemen Mr. Alex Lifeson on the guitar, legend.
Guitar God
The old joke goes, Eddie van Halen was once asked what it was like to be the best guitarist on Earth. He replied, "I don't know...why don't you ask Alex Lifeson!"
you beat me to it! I love that quote
@@ShawnBoikethemaharishi only problem is.....it never happened. That quote has been used several times since the late 60’s as it turns out. Starting with Johnny Carson asking Hendrix the question and Jimi responding you’d have to ask Phil Keanu. My first hearing of this nuggets iwas supposedly Eric Clapton being asked what it was like to be the worlds greatest guitarist to which his supposed response was I don’t know, ask Prince. In any event I have been unable to find any verification of it for Clapton/Prince or EVH/Lifeson and Snopes says false, urban legend with no verifiable sourcing.
@@jhc2093 I thought Hendrix answered Billy Gibbons
@@jhc2093 Eddie did say one thing recorded about Rush. When he was asked how complex Van Halen music was he said "We're not Rush" or something like that. The interview is on youtube somewhere and you can hear him say it.
@@jhc2093 It did.. I read it in Guitar magazine in the 80's.... you know... when there was no internet or snopes.
The cool thing about Rush is how they managed to stay best friends even 40 years in. You hear so many stories of band members hating each other. Especially with bands that have been together that long. But that never happened with Rush. In fact, Geddy & Alex have been best friends since they were kids. And that's probably why the music was so good. They never felt forced to be there and to play with each other. They wanted to. And they never tried to hold each other back either so that they could get their shit in. Rush is a band where every band member is important.
You know, it's a one in a million shot to have A musician in your band that is on another level. What would the odds be that ALL 3 of the members are?
I agree, Peart, Lee, and Lifeson were all GOATs.
But you gotta admit, besides those three, the rest of the band sucked!
😜
Honestly... the odds are too astronomical. This may never happen again... R*I*P* Neil
What are the odds that Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson would be in the same highschool class. Apparently the two of them met Neil Peart at a school event. While he didn't join the band until much later it was certainly a serendipitous meeting and we are all better off for it.
As cool as you guys thought that video was, it was a million times better being in the 5th row dead center at that show ;)
You lucky dawg. I saw the tour in Phoenix but had crappy seats.
Rub it in why don't you, you bastard!! I live in Australia, so no Rush tours here, ever. I did have the good fortune to see the Presto and Counterparts tours in Montreal.
🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆
Yep.
How great was that?! Nothing beats a Rush concert!! The fans are the best and most fun crowd!! I was in the 5th row for that concert as well, but in Las Vegas... Loved every second and will miss those those forever now
DUDE !!!! Been there, front row. 11 times RUSH veteran, awesome every single time
Hard to believe Alex Lifeson is the “underrated” of the three...
VanillaThunder I’m realizing now, that he deserves to be in the Top 10 as the greatest guitarists ever, probably top 5. He’s gotten overshadowed by Neil Peart & Geddy Lee, because how good they are, and they have more active with the band.
Well, when your band of only three has arguably the best or tied for best of all time drummer and bassist, then you unfortunately have to be number three. But Alex is awesome nonetheless.
Rush Nation let’s change this narrative ... Alex is a Guitar 🎸 god
The main reason Alex seems underrated, is mostly because there is a lot more competition at the guitar. Over the decades, since the beginning of metal, the guitarists often took center stage, after vocalists of course. There have been so many great guitarist, including Alex, that everyone’s list can become very long.
There have been some really great drummers too, but not nearly as many of them as guitarists. Think about it, most people can tell you the name of every vocalist for every famous metal band, nearly as many can also name the lead guitarist, but after that, only the most dedicated fans of a group can name the drummer and then even less can name the bass player.
People who can’t name one Rush song can name the drummer. Peart has been a legend since 2112 in 1976. Geddy is such an exceptional bass player and also the lead vocalist, so of course he’s going to be memorable. For Alex, it’s the exact opposite, because even casual fans can name the drummer, almost as many can name Geddy, but the lead guitarist is the one that mostly only real fans of the group know and those fans also know he is one of the best to ever strap on a guitar.
He is probably as well known as any other lead guitarist for a band, but Geddy and Neil are just so ridiculously famous because their field is far less competitive, with exceptional musicians. There just aren’t very many bassists at Geddy’s level and even fewer drummers in Peart’s league. In order for Alex to get the attention of the other two, he would have to also play a 12 string with his feet while playing a solo.
Most other guitarists thrive on the attention, almost as much as front men (that includes front women). Most hotdogging lead guitarists get to step into the spotlight on every song, as they rip into their solo. Alex does something they can’t do; he allows the other two to shine. He never steals the song. His solos are tasteful and what fits best in the song, not how many 32nd notes he can I rip in every solo. Lifeson’s priority was the music, not the fame.
I know from being a guitarist and playing in bands that it is much easier to rip out a great hotdogging solo if the other members are laying back, just giving you a great, easy progression, like a simple blues progression in A or Amin. When the bass is as complex as Geddy plays, you are far more limited on what you can play. Your piece really needs to be well written, to stay with the key changes, not to mention the time signature and tempo changes in many Rush songs.
That is why you rarely hear Alex going off on some tangent and doing a lot of improvising live. He stays exactly with the written solo most of the time. Working Man is from their very early years, a much simpler time. No major key changes, it mostly stays in E. This is one time Alex can go crazy, and we see what he can do when unleashed here at this concert. He proves he belongs at the top of anyone’s guitarists list.
The first solo in La Villa Strangiato is another piece where there is an opportunity for him to go nuts. Even though La Villa Stragiato is an extremely complicated and difficult song, the piece for the first solo is a straight progression of A to F and back to A again, repeating those two notes for the entire solo.
That’s why Lifeson has improvised a lot on that solo over the years. It was written as bluesy kind of piece, with a bit of a throwback guitar solo, more like something you’d expect from Carlos Santana or Stevie Ray Vaughn, and Alex always delivers that quality of a solo every time, proving he belongs in the company of guitarists like Santana and SRV.
I have seen Rush live on every tour since Permanent Waves and Lifeson is just unbelievable. Anyone who has never seen Rush live, has no idea how good he really is. The best thing about Rush is the lack of egos and Lifeson doesn’t have the ego of the typical guitarist in his league, so he never mugged for the spotlight.
None of these guys from Rush were whores for media attention, which is why none of them ever married some hot super model or actress for a short marriage that unfortunately, wasn’t short enough to prevent kids from being born and thrust into the spotlight as their parents make fools of themselves in front of the whole world, including their kid’s friends and their enemies.
These guys were regular, down home Canadian boys and all the money and fame never changed them. So don’t feel sorry for Alex, because he never cared if he was top of everyone’s guitarists list. All three of these guys just wanted to make music that please their faithful fans who supported them, making it possible for them to stand opposed to the corporatized, over processed, repetitious, garbage their label pressured them to make, but instead make the kind of music they could be proud of.
Everyone of us Rush fans played a part in that. Supporting them through the decades, so they could keep making more and more of the kind of music we like and respect. In the 40+ years Rush was around, so many other bands came and went. Selling far more records and being far more popular, at least for their 15 minutes, which is how long it seemed for many of them. Yet, Rush continued on, for another 30+ years after many of these other one hit wonders were playing small clubs trying to milk as much as they could from their one or two hits.
I wonder how many people had to listen to those bands playing all of their other crappy songs from past albums, waiting for them to finally play that one or two songs they actually knew the words to? Not at a Rush concert. Even when they did 3 hour shows, they didn’t scratch the surface of their catalog of great songs. They have so many incredible songs and anyone who has been to a Rush concert knows that the majority of the fans know every lyric to every song they play. You can hear them singing proudly, even to the deep cuts from every album. That’s no “one hit wonder” crowd. That’s people deeply invested into a group they love.
@@RoarOfWolverine what you said!
Wish you guys could have seen a live show. No frills, no explosions, no dancers. Just 3 top notch musicians ripping for 3 hours! 🤘🤘
The Clockwork Angels tour had fair amount of explosions and fireworks, but you are correct. I seen Rush probably 20+ times and it was always about the performance!
And a crowd that ripped right along with them. Just as into it as the band was. It was an electrifying experience. The band always gave 150% on stage, and the audience gave it right back to them. It was such an amazing thing to be a part of. No other concert I've ever been to ever came close to what a Rush concert was like.
This is Rush in a nut shell. Best there is, Best there was, Best there ever will be. Eye and ear candy all day long folks.
Rush - only 3 guys who are absolute virtuoso players, master songsmiths, making as much of a soundscape as possible. Legends.
That was fun to watch guys. The expressions on your faces? Priceless! Rush may not be your particular brand of music, but as musicians and performers, you guys clearly recognize that Rush was a special band. More and more younger people are getting hip to how unique and ridiculously talented this band was. Even if Rush is not your type of music, any band can still learn from the lunch pail, workmanlike professionalism and sheer synergy as a performing unit. True masters of the craft and all done with artistic integrity without compromise. Good luck on your own journey!
Truly well put. :)
I've never heard of anyone say that any member of Rush 'phoned' in their performance...EVER...sure they may have had an off night, not feeling well, etc., but I've not heard of them giving less than 100% each and every night!
They are a testament to performance artists!
This is the song that broke them out in the USA. Donna Halper a DJ and music director at WMMS in Cleveland is accredited for playing the song on the station which became popular with the working class city. The response resulted in a record deal for the band, which gave her special thanks for her part in their early history and dedicated their first two albums to her! This is why Cleveland is so important to the band.
That is some amazing info, thanks for it!
I live around 60 miles South of Cleveland. I was at this show.Rush was insanely good
This song is an encore after a nearly three hour show performed by three musicians in their (at this time) late 50s or early 60s and they were still showing the younger folk how it’s done.
when I watch you guys react, I'm seeing myself for the past 45 years listening and watching Rush!!! It never gets old for me!!!
You should react to La Villa Strangiato from Rush in Rio.
Yeaaaaaa
Moto Dork yeeesssss!
AND *"YYZ" (why why zed).*
when else will you get to hear a crowd in the tens of thousands(they filled a soccer stadium), singing along with an *'instrumental'?*
Home town show. What a magical night
This was the first release from their first album in 1974, and it was presented to America in Cleveland. This performance was in Cleveland, so call it a love letter to the city.
Besides RUSH gotten their break in Cleveland, term Rock N Roll was coined by DJ Alan Freed in early 50's at a radio station in Cleveland too. Naturally, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is located in Cleveland.
Step aside, kids. And watch how Rock music is *spozed* to be played!
This band is so freaking awesome. The longevity alone is incredible. They loved their fans. They loved making music and performing. Greatest band ever!🤘🤘🍁🍁🍁🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦
Great Rush reaction! They rock right!!!!! So happy you guys are getting into everybody’s favorite band Rush
Great job guys...they are incredible.....La Villa Strangiato.....is a must...no lyrics.....doesn’t need them.....true masterpiece.✌️
Doc, so true! Only thing I think is other underrated three piece band triumph! Seen them up front in the mid 80’s, best concert ever, and great guitarist !
your comment needs more ....'s
These are 3 men who are all absolute MASTERS of their respective instruments.
You can see, even at their age, that this is what they love. I've seen them 5 times and they have never ever disappointed. Just jamming out and pulling the crowd in. Great musicians and performers
Love seeing people's reactions for the first time when they see and hear Rush perform one of their songs live. Just awesome guys and nice pick Anna
It brings a huge smile to my face when I see someone hearing them for the first time :)
I saw Neil hit a small cymbal so hard one time it came off the kit like a frisbee. Coolest thing ever.
Working Man was from their first album and it was the song that got them their break in America when a Cleveland DJ started playing it on the radio. People were calling in asking for the new Led Zeppelin song. I didn't discover them until I heard the album 2112 in 1976. You need to check out the epic song 2112 which took up side one from their fourth album. You may find a live video on RUclips but I am not sure if will be complete. I would recommend the video with the accompanying illustrations which helps with the story behind the song but the song itself is killer especially 2112 Overture/Temples of Syrinx. Finding a good live video that would be worthwhile.
Donna Halper, and they never forgot her either. They took her with them to every Awards ceremony, every major concert or special. These dudes were the most superior human beings then I ever saw.
I admit I really likes that Zeppelin song. But what happened to Plants voice?? He sounds different, doesn't he?
🤔😅
Saw Rush 5 times and every show was pure madness in the audience. Loved it!!!
So glad I am old enough to have seen these guys several times. 1st Tour for me was moving Pictures. I am a grease monkey. This song is played loudly from my speakers on my tool box once a day..every day. Now the whole shop rocks out to Rush at least once a day. How man working men out there?? The lyrics to this song are my life.
1974 Donna Halper introduced RUSH to the U.S. WMMS 101.9. Home of the Buzzard. Cleveland rock station.
I have watched probably 10-12 different reaction videos to this tune and everyone who watches this is blown away and rightfully so. This live version is a complete face melter🤯! I love how Geddy and Alex get to just let it it all hang out🎸. The real reason for my comment though is the crowd. The crowd is absolutely into it and probably one of the loudest audiences I've heard on a live recording! I think the crowd really brings it all together! Love it👏! RIP Professor 😢
I have been privileged to see them six times in many years past. I am privileged to have lived in the same time as such artists and been in the presence of their music from their own hands and hearts. I will forever cherish them as the greatest band of all time, with three of the greatest musicians of all time. RIP Professor, your insights were truly profound.
Rush owes a lot to Cleveland radio back when they were starting out. WMMS Played Working Man when no other stations would play it. So that's why they filmed this video in Cleveland! They never forgot their Roots and who helped them get started in the music industry! True Story!
Hard to believe how much energy they had as this was the last song that night , after 3+ hours!!
Greatest rock trio of all time!
Playing the first song they ever wrote 40 plus years ago with the energy level like it’s their first tour. That is very rare. A lot of groups play their old songs like they’re sick of playing them
I love how you guys went from jamming out to stunned, stiff silence during Alex’s solo.
I never get tired of this version. Best band ever.
Breaks my heart that we lost Neil. What a huge loss to music. The man was a genius and hands down the greatest drummer of all time.
another suggestion is Rush Yyz live in Rio the audience voices out this phenominal Instrumental masterpiece to see a lively crowd it's a must
That crowd is so into the entire show. Such a great video. Closer to the Heart also, the crowds energy is insane
I went to the concert in my country for that Time Machine Tour, and it was amazing. Those 3 guys are something special. The sound was just epic.
Thank you so much for doing this awesome song! I was fortunate to be at that show., great memories! Keep Rocking!!! ✌🏼🤘🏼
Thanks guys.4:55 and 5:45 is why I've recommended you check this out. Glad you appreciated it.
A lot to learn from a song recorded in 1973 that still resonates today.
Your reactions were as awesome as mine watching you! I even threw my arms in the air and hollered “Are you ‘effing’ kidding me?!!” I love RUSH but never saw that before!!
Great video, great reactions!
RUSH RULES!!
And you have to remember this song was written very early in their career and is one of the favorites every time they play it it was one of the songs that really turned me on to this band when I was a very young kid I was probably 12 years old one of the greatest bands ever. May Neil Peart Rest In Peace
Those faces you guys make are priceless.
Keep in mind this was the encore. Also I believe that this song was what paved the way for them to become popular in the United States. 100.7 WMMS (based in Cleveland) was the first American station to play Rush on the radio.
They were not only band mates but also were truly best friends! You can see that in their performances that they were constantly joking around with each other. Doin' what the love and lovin' what they do!!
Absolute throw down performance by old dudes. GOD these guys were SO good.
I had been hearing them play that song live since 1977. As much as I love that song, it's just a little sad because I remember that's the last song they ever played. It was fitting that they went out with the song that got them noticed. The Time Machine Tour was a special tour they did when one of their most popular albums, Moving Pictures, turned 30 years old. They "went back in time" and played the entire album from beginning to end as the opening of the 2nd act.
Not only was it the song that got them noticed, but it was in Cleveland where the radio station first played that song. They were paying homage back to that great city!
Great reactions so far for Rush. Try "Dinner with RUSH". It's the three of them eating, drinking, laughing and drinking. Just three good friends sharing a wonderful evening together. Very rare to see this type of friendship in the music industry.
This whole band is legendary!!
I was 12th Row for that show in Greensboro North Carolina. It cost me $600, I thought that was ridiculous at the time, and now I would spend four times that much!
Thank god you can afford it Rush is priceless
Classic stuff...Best Band EVER!!! YOU ROCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You guys should find the beginning of this show, they love to poke fun at themselves and it’s so good.
All of that as an Encore to a 3 hour concert!
Thanks for a great reaction.
Rush must have been careful about where they went on tour, because some of the things Geddy and Alex did with their guitars are probably banned in 37 states.
So happy that i saw this in Detroit! One of the best in my lifetime! 3 hours! No opener!
You guys want to be shocked, there is a pretty good black and white video Rush “Anthem” or “bastille day” 1976( one of their harder songs) , they’re in their 1970’s garb , Geddy voice is stellar .....they had just come out with their fourth album 2112
Thank you, thank you, thank you! This was just about 30 years after the Xanadu video you reacted to the other day... 30 years in which they just got better, and better.
BOTH OF YOU ARE GREAT...A MUSICIAN MYSELF ...DRUMS, SINGER AND LYRICIST..LOVE YOUR PASSION! HAVE SEEN RUSH 117 TIMES. RIP MY MENTOR NEIL!! TRAV ..LUCKY MAN SUZIE Q is GORGEOUS, SMART AND CAPTIVATING SMILE...GOD BLESS BOTH OF YOU! KEEP ROCKING..
So many emotions.. I saw this show in London, but watching this now brings out all the emotions not to want to put a dampener on it.. after seeing them many times and it is a rush watching Rush! 40+ years on the road refining their art, we won't see them again :( thank you for keeping the memories alive! They were a very special band!
They are one of the hardest working bands of all time!!! I've played all their songs a million times on the drums... great work out lol
I've been a Rush fan since the early eighties. Best 3 man band ever, Possibly the best, ever. There Catalog spans 40 years, 167 songs. They are amazing. I love seeing young people like yourselves get into this legendary band.
Too see masters at the end is humbling
RUSH and Cleveland will always be tied together. They thanked WMMS and Kid Leo on their debut album.
One of the greatest live bands ever
I.... have NEVER since 2112, heard these guy TEAR OFF into indescribable RIFFS,BARS,and MINDBENDINGNESS that they just performed like they were opening the door for an elderly lady! BLOWED THE LAST FEW CELLS I HAD LEFT......
I appreciate your humility as musicians which is why I subscribed. The comment made at the end, "we could learn a thing or two from that," speaks volumes and will now watch your personal band's music and see your evolution.
I am fortunate to have seen nine of their shows. Four of which were EMS standbys. Just the best band, ever.
Saw them live twice. Once was on the Time Machine tour. Listening to them since the 70's. What a band. Ok, suggestion: LA VILLA STRANGIATO. You will be BLOWN AWAY. :) Peace.
Unreal! Rush is so unpretentious and down to earth. Love your reactions, so happy and genuine!
Anything live from Rush you will enjoy. Their last tour, R40, the Roadies came onstage and changed the stage to match what album they were playing from and the concert was done chronologically, beginning with their latest album, Clockwork Angels from their debut album in 74 or was it 73? In either case, concert began with that backdrop and ended with a chair, a marshall amp and microphone... Bittersweet as I said before.. but so amazing.
There's shredding the guitar, and there's Alex who VAPORIZES it!
Rest in peace Neil. You're sorely missed Pratt.
Great reaction! You should listen to the original to hear the difference in voice and style. Both versions are excellent. I think it's time for La Villa Strangiato - official music video. Probably better requested on the site . . . .
how many 3 man bands can put out the sound these 3 permeate the air with?
true masters of their crafts.... saw them 40 yrs ago in a little arena in London Ont. amazing
Good for you brother, I saw R40 there last ever show in there hometown of Toronto, to this day I feel honored!
I saw the Detroit show just a couple of days before this was recorded. One of the best concerts I have ever seen. This song was the highlight for sure
Cleveland broke these guys and Cleveland is where they do it the best. This concert was great. Miss this kind of stuff (real music, talented musicians, giant concerts, the energy)
I'm an old guy been a fan since 1981 was lucky to see them in concert (Roll the Bones Tour) thanks for the reaction!
Thank you for not just going through the motions on your reactions. I don't care if you like the bands you react to or not but you definitely watch and pay attention and I admire that. Keep it up.
Keep in mind that they were in their sixties, outdoing 20somethings with all that energy. You were absolutely right in saying they were having fun, cause they were. Alex and Teddy have been best of friends since middle school, then Neil was added in 1974. He was not on the original recording, that was John Rutsey (rip as well). Neil joined just before their 1st US tour. Just a group of great guys.
Keep rocking to RUSH GUYS... THEY ARE THE BEST...
Rush first debuted in the US on Cleveland radio station WMMS thanks to an astute young music director from Massachusetts, Donna Halper, and me being a resident was the beneficiary of that serendipity. The song was working man off of their titular album Rush
This is the performance that separates the men from the boys. This chemistry takes decades to acquire and Rush right here, demonstrates how you do it. Start off nice an cool-like, all chilled and groovy, then take it up a notch and rock it out, then just for shits & giggles, take it to another level of musicianship as if it was a stroll in the park. 40 years + of hard work and perfection on display right there. Rock gods of the highest order.
I do believe that was the last concert and the last song they played on stage together. After that gig Neil Peart ( The Professor) retired. I also believe it was 2015.
No buddy, sorry.
This was part of the Time Machine tour in 2011. After that they did Clockwork Angels which I also saw in the UK in 2013. They played one other tour after that (R40, 2015), and then Neil declared he was retiring because, as you say, couldn't he carry on due to the pain of such a physically punishing task.
Incredible, wonderful, perfect 3 piece symphony orchestra. 🙏 RIP Professor...😥
10 years ago my brother in law took me to see this show. Was a BLAST!!! Keep playing Rush. It's a real journey.
This video caused the Rush Army to double!!
They were so so tight together. The most amazing band ever.
Y’all need to check out a Neil Peart drum solo
Definitely...
But...In Rio
Great rendition love the Jamaica vibe. Glad you enjoyed it. I was lucky enough to see these guys something like 15 times over the years starting with the Hemispheres tour. I took my son to see rush on the Time Machine tour. If you can find it watch the whole show. It was one of my favorites
Seen them 8 times ...never a disappointment .......sighhhhhhh ...the memories ...
watch/listen to rush BEST INTRO EVER
Enjoy your reactions! Rush leaves you speechless, and the live versions make them more impressive! Btw, Cleveland was their breakout town in the US when a DJ played the song and got numerous calls inquiring about the new 'Zeppelin' album! I'm a Toronto guy and that's where their heart is, but Cleveland will always hold a special place in theirs!
That performance was iconic!! I actually photographed them live in Texas on this tour for a magazine. For a different type of performance from this Cleveland show but also amazing I HIGHLY, HIGHLY recommend "Marathon"!!!!
that tune is from their first album :)
Love watching the boys go to work.
Now you know why weve been going to see them for decades. We hit 8 shows on R40, including the opener in Tulsa, MSG and the last one at the LA Forum. RIP Neil.
First and last! That's awesome! We caught 3 shows, 2nd row is Lincoln for the second show and at the Forum for last as well. 😁😢
@@lvgelfling72 we did Tulsa Lincoln Columbus Philly Newark MSG Kansas City and LA. We also went to their induction to the HOF at the Staples Center. We went to SARS in TO. Im stuck on 59 forever and my pal is on 79. We met in 82 and started going to shows then. He first saw them in 78.
@@lvgelfling72 now we wear our RUSH jackets to go see The Rush Tribute Project from the Milwaukee area. They are 3 great guys and very talented. I have put some video up and they have their own and other fans do as well. We had tickets for 2 shows last spring b4 all this crap started. One date has been reset in Indiana and we are waiting for the St Charles ILL show to be reset. Indiana show in December. My pal and I had been going to see all the legends we could before this virus stuff. Blue Oyster Cult and TOTO were really great shows we saw. We have some serious RUSH jackets. We might donate these to the HOF....maybe. My pin jacket has over 400 RUSH pins and weighs over 8 lbs. My pal has a group of amazing patch jackets. I did pins and he did patches.
@@rushfan9thcmd oh how awesome!! I will check out your videos! So you any pics of the jackets?? The guy who introduced me to Rush, the second time, is my concert buddy also! I became a fan late in the game, like 96 or so. My friend, on the other hand, saw them in 81 or 82 for the first time, in Frankfurt or maybe Mannheim? I'm not sure... He's got a ton more concerts under his belt, but I'm super happy to have seen them as many times as I have. I'm also glad we started spending the money for the VIP tickets, because we live in Vegas and unfortunately most of the front seats are reserved for hotel VIPs, so it is definitely worth it. Otherwise we are 25 rows back or something. Still so sad over Neil's passing and that we won't get to see anymore live shows (selfish me). Looking forward to the end of virus so Primus gets back on tour. Already have our tickets for that tribute your.. just on hold.
I was fortunate enough to be at this show. Unbelievable!!!