"Ray Wawrzyniak, a teacher at Willow Ridge Elementary School in the Sweet Home School District and family man from the Town of Tonawanda, also happens to be one of the world’s foremost experts on the history of Rush"Read the full story here.
The limelight keeps finding Rush authority from Tonawanda
Rush "2112 40th Anniversary Edition" Now Available
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On December 16, 2016, 2112—40th will be released in three distinct variations. The 2CD/DVD edition will include a newly remastered CD of the original 2112 album by Abbey Road Studios, and an additional CD of rare, live and previously unreleased material including newly-recorded tracks from 2112 featuring Dave Grohl and Taylor Hawkins of Foo Fighters along with Nick Raskulinecz, Billy Talent, Steven Wilson from Porcupine Tree, Jacob Moon and Alice In Chains. The set’s third disc is a DVD featuring a newly restored vintage 1976 Rush concert recorded at the Capitol Theatre in Passaic, NJ, plus bonus videos of the Grohl/Hawkins/Raskulinecz track and Billy Talent track, and a new 25+ minute interview featuring Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson and longtime producer & engineer Terry Brown. The new 2112 remaster originally appeared on the much-acclaimed 2015 hologram vinyl edition of the album; this marks the Abbey Road Studios master first time on CD.
UMe is also releasing a three-LP 200-gram vinyl edition incorporating all of the aforementioned audio material, plus a special laser-etched LP side, the 2015 hologram on 2112’s side B and a unique turntable mat featuring the band’s iconic Starman character. Fans will also have the option of purchasing a Super Deluxe edition of 2112, incorporating both CDs, the DVD, all three LPs plus its bonus items, and several exclusive collectable items including two 12-inch x 12-inch lithos, one featuring Hugh Syme’s original Starman pencil sketching, the second showcasing a 1976 Massey Hall ticket stub; a reprint of the 1976 Massey Hall handbill and three buttons featuring each band member, all housed in a box lined with velvet flocking. For the first 1,000 Super Deluxe pre-order purchases at Rush.com, us.udiscovermusic.com and udiscovermusic.com, the purchaser will receive a limited edition 7-inch pressing of the album’s first single “The Twilight Zone” (b/w “Lessons”) and a custom red star 45 large hole adapter ring, both newly designed by Hugh Syme.
All three versions of 2112—40th feature extensive liner notes by renowned rock historian Rob Bowman, and newly designed artwork by longtime Rush art director Hugh Syme. The set’s rare recordings include “Solar Federation,” spotlighting the isolated Neil Peart vocals that close the song “2112” in “Grand Finale,” two outtakes from the 1976 Massey Hall concerts including “Something For Nothing” and a nearly complete 15+ minute performance of “2112,” as well as a recently-rediscovered live version of the album track “The Twilight Zone,” which has only been performed twice in the band’s long history.
The cover versions of "Tears" performed by Alice In Chains, "A Passage To Bangkok" (sample) by Billy Talent, and "Twilight Zone" by Steven Wilson are now available on Youtube.
Tracklistings below.
Rush Referenced on Family Guy's Christmas Episode
Last night's episode of Family Guy (season 15, episode 9, "How the Griffin Stole Christmas"), included another Rush reference (just two weeks after their last reference). Stewie says "Oh God, I ruined Christmas, like The Little Drummer Boy when he really got into Neil 'Pert'" which is followed by a quick scene of the Little Drummer Boy in the manger, who drops his ancient drum to break into a drum solo on a Peart-like drum kit. Check out the scene here. - Thanks to John Lindsay for the headsup!
Geddy Lee remembers Greg Lake
"We've lost yet another great artist and talented bassist...What a devastating year 2016 has been... ELP were one of my faves ..first Keith Emerson and now Greg Lake. RIP boys....and thanks for the music... #GregLake #KeithEmerson #ELP" - Geddy Lee, December 8, 2016
Official Rush Coloring Book and Holiday Greeting Cards by Fantoons
Fantoons has announced the release of their officially licensed 52 page RUSH coloring book packed with art and humor and about the greatest power trio that ever crossed the earth! The mighty RUSH! Everyone can have fun and relax with this oversize coloring book which measures at 12" x 19". Priced at just $15.99, you can order it here.In addition, Fantoons now have a line of official Rush Christmas cards which can be ordered here, as well as Hanukkah cards available here.
And if you missed out on its original release, be sure to check out Rush Toons By Fantoons Vol. 2112, a 170+ page book packed with RUSH comic strips, parodies, art and illustrations. - Thanks to David Calcano at Fantoons for the headsup!
Rush Announce Donation to Gord Downie Brain Cancer Research foundation
“We are pleased to direct this generous donation from the Allan Slaight Humanitarian award to the Gord Downie Fund for Brain Cancer Research at Sunnybrook. Many Canadian families have been affected either directly or indirectly by this terrible disease. Through Gord’s courageous efforts this cause is now getting the attention it desperately deserves. As a fellow musician and friend it’s our turn to help support his efforts to fight Brain Cancer now.” – RUSH“We are thrilled to learn Rush has made such a donation,” commented Dr. James Perry, head of neurology at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. “The Gord Downie Fund for Brain Cancer Research will help give us the tools we need to find ways to treat the untreatable. Right now we are investigating new drugs, surgical techniques and genetic therapies. We are using ultrasound to reach tumours that couldn’t be reached before. The funds so generously donated by RUSH will support us as we continue our pioneering work, to the benefit of brain cancer patients not only across Canada but around the world.”
To join Rush and make a personal donation to the Gord Downie Fund for Brain Cancer Research at Sunnybrook , go to www.sunnybrook.ca/gord. The Allan Slaight Humanitarian award will be presented at the Canadian Music & Broadcast Industry Awards Gala Dinner on Thursday April 20, 2017 in the Grand Ballroom at the Toronto Sheraton Centre Hotel.
Grapes For Humanity dinner raises $40,000 for Amani Home for Street Kids in Moshi, Tanzania
"Joe Canavan, a great supporter of Grapes for Humanity, invited eleven of his friends to join him at Barberian’s Steak House on Elm Street, Toronto, for this fund-raiser dinner. The celebrity guests were Geddy Lee and Alex Liveson of Rush who regaled the company with stories of their touring and recording. The wine flowed…like wine and Barberian’s owner, Arron Barberian pledged $2,000 to the cause: the construction of a new home for street kids in Moshi, Tanzania.- Thanks to John at Cygnus-X1.net for the headsup!
"For the record, the wines were: Bouchard Ursules Champagne, F.X. Pichler 2007 Loibner Berg Riesling, Hirtzberger 2007 Honivogl Gruner Veltliner, 1997 Guigal La Mouline Côte Rôtie, 1999 Jamet Côte Rôtie, 2000 Ogier Côte Rôtie Belle Helene, 2001 Jasmin Côte Rôtie, 2003 Jamet Côte Rôtie, 1997 Dows Port"
Wine expert Mark Oldman's new book features Geddy Lee
Wine expert Mark Oldman's latest wine book, How to Drink Like a Billionaire (Regan Arts), was released last month. In the book, Mark talks about how he learned about the wine word "minerality" when he interviewed Geddy Lee and how that word is essential to understanding wine. You might recall that Mark interviewed Geddy and Alex–both grape nuts–for his previous books. One of the clips with Alex is here.
As the holidays approach, Mark and his team are introducing a "2112 Wine Book Giveaway (Nov 21 to Dec 12)" whereby RUSH fans who buy two (or more) copies of Billionaire, get a copy of his previous award-winning wine book, Oldman's Brave New World of Wine, for free (and signed).
As the holidays approach, Mark and his team are introducing a "2112 Wine Book Giveaway (Nov 21 to Dec 12)" whereby RUSH fans who buy two (or more) copies of Billionaire, get a copy of his previous award-winning wine book, Oldman's Brave New World of Wine, for free (and signed).
- Starting now until December 12th, purchase two (2) or more copies of How to Drink Like a Billionaire on Amazon (and don’t forget to write a review!).
- Email the Amazon receipt to alf@markoldman.com with your mailing address.
- Oldman will mail you a FREE, signed copy of Oldman’s Brave New World of Wine–just in time for the holidays!
Rush Reference on Family Guy
"Rush: Time Stand Still" The Documentary now available
For video samples, the detailed tracklist and more, check out the Time Stand Still discography page.
The film premiered in thearters across the US on November 10th, with an encore screening on the US as well as the UK on November 17. The theatrical showings also includes the 20-minute mini-documentary "A Salute to Kings" featuring Gene Simmons, Chad Smith, Ann & Nancy Wilson, and others, which is not available on the home video release (an Easter egg perhaps?).
"This feature-length documentary film chronicles the final major tour for legendary rock band Rush. It is an intimate view 'under the hood' of a historic moment from the perspective of the band, their fans, crew, and management. Featuring interviews with the band throughout their sold-out 2015 40th Anniversary tour, the film also shows rarely seen backstage footage capturing the final moments of life on the road. Highlighted as well is the impact on the band's fans and the world that has been built around the beloved Canadian trio. This is the final touring chapter of a band that has meant so much to so many fans around the world. With narration by Paul Rudd. Running time: 1 hour 37 minutes of documentary footage with an additional 67 minutes of never-before-released bonus content."
Alex Lifeson comments on "For What It's Worth" - Rollingstone
Rush's Alex Lifeson recalls first hearing the song while driving in the family car in the Toronto suburbs. "I'm not sure if it was the first time I heard it, but I clearly remember driving with my dad and wearing blue granny glasses, which I thought were so cool," Lifeson says. "It was a sunny day, and I put the radio on and 'For What It's Worth' came on. I still recall feeling so moved by that song. It sounded so cool to me, that combination of the acoustic and electric guitars and the lyrics. Canada was a haven for objectors to the war, so we had a different view on what was happening in Vietnam."- Thanks to RushFanForever for the headsup!
During its early days, Rush used to jam on the song – "a 10-minute arrangement with a seven-minute guitar solo and a bass solo and then back into the chorus," Lifeson chuckles – and later recorded it on their 2004 covers set, Feedback. "I suggested it and it was an important song for all of us," he says. "Even when I hear that song now, I get goosebumps. I always think of the ride with my dad. It's one of those really special, magical songs. It may be my favorite song of all time."
Martin Popoff's "Rush: Album by Album" coming spring 2017
"Find out what 20 rock journalists and writers have to say about Rush's 20 studio albums. Formed in Toronto in 1968, the rock trio Rush has gone on to multiplatinum success behind the distinctive high register and virtuosic bass-playing of frontman Geddy Lee, the legendary drumming and lyric-writing of Neil Peart, and the guitar heroics of Alex Lifeson. Despite having just four chart-topping singles since the release of their debut LP in 1974, Rush has nonetheless sold more than 25 million albums in the U.S. and more than 40 million worldwide. Indeed, the Canadian trio may be the definition of an 'album band,' and this new book from prolific rock journalist and acknowledged Rush authority Martin Popoff pays tribute to the band's discography by moderating in-depth, frank, and entertaining conversations about all 20 of Rush's studio albums. Inside, the author gathers 20 rock journalists and authors who offer insights, opinions, and anecdotes about every release. Together, the conversations comprise a unique historical overview of the band, as well as a handsome discography. Popoff also includes loads of sidebars that provide complete track listings, details on album personnel, information on where and when the albums were recorded, and sidebar facts about the albums, their songs, and the band."Popoff has previously written Contents Under Pressure: 30 Years of Rush at Home & Away and Rush: The Unnofficial Illustrated History.
Rik Emmett & Resolution 9's "Res 9" featuring Alex Lifeson now available
"When Rik asked me to play on his new album, I didn't hesitate for a second. He's the consummate musician, a wonderful guitarist, and a terrific person, and it's always my pleasure to work with him any chance I can get. There is a rock purity in his songwriting and performance, and it's just so much fun to get together and throw ideas around. He's always so up and open for anything — even a notoriously uncooperative Rickenbacker 12-string!"- Alex LifesonOn September 28th, Rik Emmett released a lyric video for the song "Human Race" featuring Alex Lifeson which you can watch below. He followed that up on November 3rd with a lyric video for "End of the Line", featuring Alex Lifeson and Dream Theater’s James LaBrie.
See below for the official trailer as well as lyric videos for "Human Race" and "End of the Line".
Alex Lifeson's 2016 A Brush Of Hope Painting - "Aquarium"
UPDATE: the ebay auction closed November 8th at noon, ending in a final sale price of $8,700 Canadian.
“This year, my painting subject is called “Aquarium”, a sort of “fish on acid” theme or what you might expect if you were visiting a lovely Martian family, strolling through their living room, drink in hand,” commented Lifeson. “Please have a look and if interested, bid. As always, proceeds go to the Kidney Foundation of Canada to continue research in the hope for a cure for kidney disease.” - Alex Lifeson
DVBBS collaboration with Alex Lifeson on "Closer To The Heart"
According to a story posted today at broadwayworld.com, Canadian-born duo DVBBS (pronounced 'dubs') have collaborated with Alex Lifeson to record a new version of "Closer To The Heart" which will be available for download in early 2017.
"When we first had dinner with Ray Daniels, Rush manager, we couldn't be any more excited hearing the stories," Chris said. "I grew up a drummer so Neil Pert was a legend to me and a strong influence my whole childhood and music career."Click here for more.
"They're the greatest Canadian band of all time so when we were given the chance to remake a song and implement new music and production with Alex Lifeson, you can imagine how excited we were."
"Can't wait to play people the song, and bridge the gap between generations," says Alex.
2017 Rush Calendar Now Available
"Every year Rush fans come out of the woodwork to get their calendar and once again, you'll be ready. This 2017 edition is sure to satisfy. It runs for 16 months and begins in September of 2016 and runs through December 2017."
Rush on The Strombo Show
Rush were guests on The Strombo Show last night to discuss 2112-40th among other things, and their interview segment is now available for listening here.
"Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson of RUSH visited the House for an extensive conversation with host and landlord, George Stroumboulopoulos. This unedited, extended version explores the 40th anniversary of 2112, their final tour, the internal dynamic, songwriting, the Rock N’ Roll Hall of Fame induction, Foo Fighters, Pearl Jam, electronic dance music and touches on what’s next for the Holy Triumvirate."- Thanks to Rushbandforever for the headsup!
Masters of Resonance an Edge Factor featuring Neil Peart coming 2017
A Message from Jeremy Bout, Producer/ Host of Edge Factor:
"Before running a CNC machine, I thought about buying stuff, not making it. Before I met the team at DW Drums, I thought a drum was a pail, and a Luthier was a theologian. Before making this film, I thought a musical instrument was a simple object used to make melodies. Then I spent time with John Good and Neil Peart and realized… Boy, was I wrong.
In 2010, I left the grinding shop and my 5 axis CNC machine to pick up a video camera and tell stories of people who are making things and changing lives. I had no experience in the film industry, no connections to the “big dogs” in manufacturing and no idea of where this decision would take me. But I knew I wanted to share stories of makers connecting their minds to their hands to bring new ideas to life. After the release of our first film, a teacher told me how it inspired one of his students to see manufacturing in a new light, and how that student “now knew what he wanted to do with his life” - he was going to become a maker. That day, the heart of Edge Factor was born.
40 shows and several TV series later, something happened last year that sparked a story we never expected: we became part of the DW Drums family. Masters of Resonance is a music film that takes the audience on a journey from the forest to the stadium and tells the story of how a fallen tree rises and lives again, in the music it creates.
I will never forget sitting with Neil Peart and hearing him record voice over for this film, “The entire history of a tree, year by year, can be read in the circular grooves that mark its annual cycle - its growth rings… Like those growth rings, popular music also reflects the 'weather' of its times: evokes and embodies the moods and movements that gave it context.” These thoughts have echoed in my mind and marked my awakening: Our lives have all been marked by the Masters of Resonance.
Disclaimer: We’re not experts in the music industry. We don’t know the history of every great drummer who’s ever lived. It is with fear and trepidation that we sharing our journey, as we explore the relationship between trees, drum and guitars makers, world-class musicians and the memories their music creates in our lives. We’re storytellers feeling like we have stepped onto sacred ground in our quest to make learning relevant as we inspire the next generation of makers and artists.
We could not be more excited to announce the Masters of Resonance film, produced by Edge Factor is coming in 2017."
Starring: Drum Workshop Inc. (DW Drums), Taylor Guitars, Neil Peart, RUSH, Cody Lovaas, Blair Sinta, Cobus Potgieter, newsboys (official), Duncan Phillips, Mona Tavakoli, Tommy Clufetos and many, many more... To learn more, go to www.mastersofresonance.com
[August 30, 2016] The upcoming Edge Factor documentary "Masters of Resonance," which tells the stories of makers and musicians such as John Good from DW Drums, and Neil Peart from Rush, is currently in post-production. Today Edge Factor posted this Instagram video that includes CGI and footage of Neil Peart from their forthcoming film. - Thanks Mark for sharing!
RUSH - 2017 Allan Slaight Humanitarian Award Recipients
Canadian Music Week has announced Rush - Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson and Neil Peart - as the 2017 recipient of the Allan Slaight Humanitarian Spirit Award. The multi-platinum trio will be honoured for their achievements and longstanding career in the music industry, social activism and support of humanitarian causes at the annual Canadian Music & Broadcast Industry Awards Gala Dinner at the Sheraton Centre on Thursday, April 20th, 2017.
"We are so incredibly honoured to receive the Allan Slaight Humanitarian Spirit Award. The depth of Allan and Gary Slaight's generosity, consideration and benevolence has no measure. We will strive to carry forward their spirit of charity and goodwill." - Rush
"My father Allan Slaight believes that giving back to one's community is something we should all strive to do and the members of Rush have made a point of this throughout their career, starting with a United Way benefit-concert at Maple Leaf Gardens in the early '80s when Allan was Chair of the Campaign," said Gary Slaight, President and CEO Slaight Communications Inc. "In recent years, the group has raised money for food banks, Casey House, the Kidney Foundation, Doctors Without Borders, AIDS research; the list goes on. Alex, Geddy and Neil have been in my family's rock 'n' roll life since the early days when we started Q107 in the late 1970s, and it gives me real pleasure today to thank these three exemplary musicians, on behalf of the Slaight Family, in awarding them with the Allan Slaight Humanitarian Award. Good deeds deserve acknowledgement and this is one group that exemplifies the spirit of giving."
David Clayton-Thomas' Cuban-Salsa cover of "Closer To The Heart" found on 'Canadiana'
David Clayton-Thomas, best known as the lead vocalist of Blood, Sweat & Tears, recently released Canadiana, an album of covers of classic Canadian songs. Included is a Cuban-salsa cover of Rush's "Closer To The Heart". He talks about recording the song in four short videos, the first of which is included below. You can buy the album here. - Thanks to RushFanForever for the headsup!
Rush's "Moving Pictures" wins Polaris Heritage Prize
This year's winner in the "1976-1985" public vote is Moving Pictures. For the complete list of winners visit polarismusicprize.ca. - Thanks to RushFanForever for the headsup!
Record Store Day, Black Friday Special: "12 Days of Christmas/Take Off" Vinyl Single
- Thanks to Joe Pesch for the headsup!
Godsmack's Sully Erna on Neil Peart
Godsmack's "Serenity" from their 2007 album Faceless was inspired by Neil Peart's Ghost Rider: Travels On The Healing Road."Well, certainly for my musician side of me, I think it's meeting some of the people that were my childhood heroes. Being able to meet Neil Peart a couple of times, that was, for me… I didn't need to meet anyone else after that. As much as I love the Steven Tylers and the Joe Perrys and the James Hetfields, Neil Peart… that guy changed my life as a musician. I quit school because of RUSH… Other than that, it was, like, really, that's all I did — I studied RUSH. I sat home and strapped on headphones and played 'Moving Pictures' and 'Exit… Stage Left' and 'Signals' and all these great albums." - For more visit Blabbermouth.com
David Phillips' "From The Riser, A Drummer's Perspective II" with foreword by Neil Peart now available
David Phillips is proud to launch his latest book, From The Riser: A Drummer’s Perspective II, a follow up to the critically acclaimed A Drummer’s Perspective.The beautifully designed, From The Riser is a photographic celebration of many of today’s greatest drummers and percussionists. It unashamedly captures the energy, emotion and elegance of the world’s best, playing with the world’s greatest bands.
The book features two hundred and seventy previously unseen photographs taken exclusively by the author. It includes over one hundred and thirty legendary drummers including Neil Peart (Rush), Gary Wallis (Pink Floyd), Graham Broad (Roger Waters), Deen Castronovo (Journey), Gavin Harrison (King Crimson), Ginger Baker (Cream), Ian Paice (Deep Purple), Marco Minnemann (Joe Satriani), Martin Axenrot (Opeth), Craig Blundell (Steven Wilson) Mike Mangini (Dream Theater), Stewart Copeland (The Police), Terry Bozzio (Frank Zappa), Todd Sucherman (Styx) and many more. Included alongside the many striking images is a record of Phillips’ cherished collection of backstage passes, set lists and other memorabilia.
Rush’s Neil Peart, who penned the foreword for the book says ‘not many photographers have captured that performance art as well as David …. One accomplishment is simply collecting photographs .... but the greater gift is delivering such iconic images.’
Phillips is an intuitive, talented, self-taught photographer who, as a drummer himself, demonstrates a natural affinity with his subjects particularly when working in a live environment. Capturing portraits of drummers has become second nature to him and his work in Artists Relations provides extraordinary contact with an incredible range of musicians and bands.
This ambitious book, with over one hundred and eighty pages, is a lavish tribute to drumming and drummers, which reflects Phillip’s intuitive knowledge and deep respect of all things percussion. It is a complete compendium, packed with expressive, jaw-dropping photos. To get shots like this you have to understand drummers, drums and playing live.
From The Riser: A Drummer’s Perspective II retails for £29.99 ($39.99,€35.50) and is only available to purchase from the Author’s website http://www.music-images.co.uk/
"Subdivisions" covered by Allegaeon on "Proponent for Sentience"
Don Henley Remarks on Rush's Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
DH: "Yeah, the Rush fans - I encountered them when I inducted Randy Newman into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Rush was being inducted the same night. They were a drunken, rowdy bunch. (Laughs) They shouted down Oprah Winfrey! It was funny. But Rush, they were very charming. Which one was it who got up and did a whole acceptance speech just using the words “blah blah blah”?- Thanks to RushFanForever for the headsup!
MG: That was Alex Lifeson.
DH: It was brilliant. It was fucking brilliant. Because you knew what he was saying, because of his inflection and his hand movements and stuff like that. It just brought the house down. I’ll never forget that. But I was lucky that night, because I got to go on first before their audience got toasted. So they were fairly quiet while I was on. I left after my bit was done, but I understand it got pretty ugly. Anyway …
Geddy Lee & Alex Lifeson Receive Key to the City at Lee-Lifeson Art Park Opening in Toronto
On Saturday, Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson receive the Key to the City of Toronto at the Lee-Lifeson Art Park opening in Toronto. Video coverage is below. Here's some detail from Billboard.com:
“We’re obviously thrilled and amazed that someone would want to do something like this and put our names on it, and we’re really happy for the community that there’s some investment arts and leisure for this neighbourhood,” said Lee.Below is Geddy and Alex's interview with George Stroumboulopoulos:
“This park will still be here weeks after we're gone,” quipped Lifeson.
The mothers of both musicians were in attendance, shielded from the elements under the tented stage.
The ceremony for The Lee-Lifeson Art Park began with a performance by Jacob Moon of “Subdivisions,” the rooftop cover he did in 2008 that is now approaching a half-million views on YouTube. George Stroumboulopoulos then interviewed Lee and Lifeson, asking about the park dedication, as well as the album 2112 (they sat on 2112 stools), and what they have been doing since their final tour, R40, ended in 2015.
“We may do house calls — maybe,” joked Lifeson.
“It’s been an adjustment this past year,” he added, seriously. “We’ve been following up on some interests that we both have. We’re learning to get used to the idea and it’s taken a while, but I feel confident about a lot of things and music is definitely still one of them. And I’m sure that we’ll do something in the future. You can’t just stop playing and writing music.”
Said Lee, “I play almost every day that I’m around the house. I’ve been traveling a lot with my wife. We’re very big into seeing the world and taking advantage of this break in my career, whatever it may be, but I love playing and I play a lot and sooner or later the right thing will happen.”
The two members of Rush — solidified as a trio with drummer Neil Peart — have always lived in Toronto, where they raised families. Lifeson started the band in Willowdale in 1971, with Lee joining that May. Peart joined in 1974, finalizing a lineup that has remained intact all these years.
“Our friendship started very close to here and our musical life together began very close to here,” said Lee, 63, recalling “the first night he [Lifeson] got me high in the park.” (“Quiet, our moms are here,” said Lifeson, also 63).
One of their first gigs, which cost 50 cents to get in, was also around the corner at St. Gabe’s (Saint Gabriel’s Parish), put on with their long-time manager Ray Danniels, who was at the park dedication.
Asked by Stroumboulopoulos what it means to them that the park is an “art” park, Lee said, “Art is the thing that elevates you out of whatever situation you’re in. Art is constant for that. Art is the thing that you pour your heart into, that whatever you’re doing, whatever aspect of life, whatever situation you find yourself in, art elevates it. It heals. It’s given us everything in our lives, so to be associated with that kind of thought and that kind of concept is amazing, fantastic.”
The idea for the 7000 sq. metre art park originated with Councillor John Fillon in 2012, who also came onstage to say a few words.
“We wanted to name the park after them, not because they’re rock stars, not just because they’ve sold many, many millions of albums and sell out concerts around the world and have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but also because they are such extraordinary musicians, and this park is about creativity and encouraging the creative spirit, encouraging people to just work on their craft and become great and do something great,” Fillon said. “So it is wonderful to have the park named after such inspiring musicians.”
Mayor John Tory then gave the pair the Key to the City.
Rush Referenced in Forza Horizon 3
Neil Peart's "Far And Wide: Bring That Horizon To Me!" Now Available
"Far And Wide: Bring That Horizon To Me!", the new 312 page hardcover book written by Neil Peart about the R40 tour, is now officially available, with a release date of September 13. If you haven't already be sure to order your copy now.
"Thirty-five concerts. 17,000 motorcycle miles. Three months. One lifetime.
"In May 2015, the veteran Canadian rock trio RUSH embarked on their fortieth anniversary tour, 'R40'. For the band and their fans, 'R40' was a celebration and, perhaps, a farewell. But for Neil Peart, each tour is more than just a string of concerts, it's an opportunity to explore backroads near and far on his BMW motorcycle. So if this was to be the last tour and the last great adventure, he decided it would have to be the best one, onstage and off.
"This third volume in Peart's illustrated travel series shares all-new tales that transport the reader across North America and through memories of fifty years of playing drums. From the scenic grandeur of the American West to a peaceful lake in Quebec's Laurentian Mountains to the mean streets of Midtown Los Angeles, each story is shared in an intimate narrative voice that has won the hearts of many readers.
"Richly illustrated, thoughtful, and ever-engaging, Far and Wide is an elegant scrapbook of people and places, music and laughter, from a fascinating road — and a remarkable life."
Producers Terry and Phill Brown to be the subject of two intimate q&a sessions in London October 8 and 9
Hosted by prog and Classic Rock magazine's Jerry Ewing and Malcolm Dome, these will see the Brown brothers talking about their 50 year careers in studios, during which they have both recorded some of the most iconic artists of the period.
Click here for more. - Thanks to RushFanForever for the headsup!
9th Annual Medlock Krieger Celebrity Invitational and All Star Concert
Yesterday Alex Lifeson participated in the 9th Annual Medlock Krieger Celebrity Invitational and All Star Concert benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at the North Ranch Country Club in Westlake Village, California. Heavymetalhill.com has posted a variety of photos and videos from the event, including live performances of The Spirit of Radio and Limelight, and the below interview with Alex as well. - Thanks to Ed at RushIsABand for the headsup!
"The Body Electric" makes Exclaims' Eight Favorite Songs About Robots
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| "The Body Electric" single |
Rush – "The Body Electric"- Thanks to RushFanForever for the headsup!
No strangers to exploring the world of science fiction in song, Rush's "The Body Electric" tells the story of "an android on the run" in search of freedom from its electronic existence. In linking the world of robotics to the human race with the song's protagonist's individualist aspirations, the song's chorus features bassist/vocalist Geddy Lee singing the binary code '1001001,' which translates to a capital I.
And here's some irony: "The Body Electric" comes from the band's 1984 record Grace Under Pressure, on which machines — namely, Lee's synthesizers and Neil Peart's electric drums — played a prominent role in their songwriting.
Geddy Lee, avid autograph collector, travels to Miami to get signatures from Ichiro and Bonds
Geddy Lee, lead singer from the group Rush, made a trip to Miami with the purpose of securing some autographs.Lee, 63, is a native of Toronto and he's a lifelong baseball fan, as well as a collector. The Rush front man was on a mission to get a couple of autographs, and he secured the signatures of Ichiro Suzuki and hitting coach Barry Bonds.
The significance is Lee has a number of autographs from players in MLB's 3,000-hit club, and 500-home run fraternity. He now adds Ichiro and Bonds.
Ichiro reached the 3,000-hit milestone last Sunday, and Bonds holds the MLB home run mark with 762. Through the years, Lee also has obtained Ty Cobb and Tris Speaker autographs, as well as a Mickey Mantle bat.
"I'm off the road now, and I'm hanging around, digging the summer," Lee said.
A friend of the singer asked why not travel to South Florida to take in a few baseball games? Plus, Lee also has a Marlins' contact, having long known, John Silverman, the team's equipment manager. Like Lee, Silverman is Canadian.
"He said, why don't we meet in Florida?" Lee said. "We can get Barry to sign a ball, and meet Ichiro, and just hang out for a few days. So it's a fun trip."
Before the Marlins faced the White Sox, Lee visited the clubhouse, meeting a number of players.
The Marlins responded by blaring on their song system, a number of Rush songs, including "Tom Sawyer" and "Limelight."
"You get a little embarrassed, but at the same time it's a little cool that there are fans in the clubhouse," Lee said. "It's a great feeling. I've been a lucky guy in my life. I've had a long career, and I've crossed a few generations now, and I'm able to exploit from my own career to meet guys I respect. It's a great kind of holiday for me."
For the full story check out MLB.com.
Tiffin University's "Rush: Progressive Rock and Modern Society" - Fall 2016 Edition
Two years ago we reported on Tiffen University in Ohio's 15 week course titled "Rush: Progressive Rock and Modern Society", which included a guest speaker appearance via Skype by Donna Halper. Professor Nathan Santos is teaching the course once again at Tiffen, beginning on August 22nd as an elective/special topics course. - Thanks to Professor Santos for the headsup!
The Music Box Tribute To Rush
The History Of Rush by Geddy Lee & Alex Lifeson - TeamRock.com
Geddy Lee - Negro Leagues Baseball Museum a testament to the critical role of sports in society
"The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City has an unlikely Canadian connection by way of Rush, Toronto’s most famous progressive-rock exports. Geddy Lee, the band’s frontman, who is also a diehard Blue Jays fan and noted collector of baseball memorabilia, donated a collection of more than 200 baseballs signed by Negro Leagues players to the museum. It’s the largest collection of its kind in the world and one of the most popular exhibits at the museum.Click here for the complete story.
"'And it’s all due to the benevolence of one Geddy Lee, a white, Canadian rocker,' museum president Bob Kendrick says, laughing. 'It just goes to show this story has no boundaries, it has no limitations, it touches virtually every one who experiences it.'
"Lee, who won the collection at auction, never disclosed what he paid, Kendrick said.
'... I tell people all the time: I can’t say I was a big Rush fan before, but I’m a big Rush fan now.'"
Neil Peart featured in DW Drum's latest Edge Factor
FYI Industry Profile: Pegi Cecconi
As the long-time right hand for [SRO/Anthem President) Ray Danniels, Cecconi has had a pivotal role in the rise of Rush to the title of ‘world’s biggest cult band.’ For instance, she executive produced the longform DVDs that have become a major revenue stream for the band (and SRO/Anthem).Click here for more.
The fiercely loyal and feisty Cecconi is exactly the kind of business person any artist would love in their corner. She notes that “Rush are as big as they are because of Ray Danniels’ total loyalty. I was brought under that wing. When I fight for fuckin Rush, as far as I’m concerned they’re the Beatles, there’s nothing else. You sit there with people having big stars, and we’d be the pain in the ass- ‘you’re not getting this or that.’ That part was fun. Ray’s thing was I want more so you’d figure out what more you could give them.”
As we lured the reluctant interviewee down memory lane, we got a chuckle out of her anecdote about her first dealings with Ray Danniels and Rush. “I met Ray when I was booking bands at my high school, Roland Michener Secondary School in South Porcupine, Ontario. He was my agent and he used to try to sell me Rush. I'd say’ no way. I can get a four-piece band for the same price as a trio. If Rush had ever played my high school the shit would have been beaten out of them!’
“I started with Ray but he wouldn’t give me a job. My first job was as an agent with Tommy and Vic Wilson, who had the Concept 376 agency. At the time it was on 57 Spadina in Toronto. I had a job working with Cliff Hunt there. I made 60$ a week but I was on commission and I was suddenly making $400. That was good money for 1972.”
Geddy Lee talks about his affection for the Tragically Hip
"The first time you listen to one of their records it kind of sneaks up on you,” Lee says. “It sounds simpler than it is. There is a particular way the power of those guitars work together.… [They] always sound sinewy and muscular. Then you put Gord's voice and his lyrics on top of that, and after repeated listening, you really start to love it. It just gets inside you. I think that's a trademark of the Hip."Click here for more. - Thanks to Ed @ RushIsABand for the headsup!
Alex Lifeson to appear on upcoming Rik Emmett album
Tom Sawyer featured on "The Infiltrator" Soundtrack
The Infiltrator stars Brian Cranston (Breaking Bad) as a U.S. Customs official who uncovers a money laundering scheme to take down Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar. The soundtrack will be released Friday, August 12th, and includes a number of 80's rock hits including Rush's "Tom Sawyer", which plays at the beginning of the film. Check it out here. - Thanks to RushIsABand for the headsup!Help the Alexander Family - A Rush Fan in Need
"On June 10th, 2016, Jeff woke up and was getting ready to head to work. He was excited because the next day he was flying to AZ to be reunited with Stephanie and the kids, and bring them back to Montana. As he was doing his laundry, a huge explosion occurred, and then a fire destroyed the home.
"Stephanie is with him, and other family members are arriving as well. While he has medical insurance, it doesn't cover the costs that his family will be incurring as they deal with this devastating tragedy. There will be travel costs and many expenses in the future weeks and months. Please help this young family out as they face an uncertain future. Your gift is truly appreciated." If you would like to donate, click here.- Thanks to Trip Kinzie for the headsup!
Neil Peart's hockey themed drumkit now on display at Canada's National Music Center
Geddy Lee praises The Who's "Live At Leeds"
Geddy Lee praises The Who's Live At Leeds in a new feature posted yesterday on Teamrock.com:
“I was a big Who fan. I still am. Like a lot of people, it started with My Generation for me. I used to go up to Sam The Record Man in town to get my music. That’s where I got Live At Leeds one Saturday morning. And the bass in My Generation, I mean, John Entwistle, my god, he was such an absolute influence on me and his playing on Leeds is unsurpassable. I’m a big fan of 'Summertime Blues' on that album, which we covered, to a large degree because of their version.
“I got to see The Who in Winnipeg, Manitoba of all places. They were incredible, but Moon was already gone by then. I never saw them with him, I’m very sad to say. No matter what they do, Pete Townshend’s writing has always been at the very top of his craft, the quintessential combination of heavy and melodic. Even today, Live At Leeds sounds so alive, it’s a real piece of that period of rock. It’s like a bootleg, the artwork, the tone; that was their attitude I think. It was raw: ‘Here it is’.”
- Thanks to RushFanForever for the headsup!
Rush Referenced in X-Men Apocalypse
As we've known since December when the trailer was first released, and a film-related UK Sky Fibre commercial, during the film X-Men Apocalypse released May 27th, the character Quicksilver is a Rush fan. Not only does he wear a Moving Pictures t-shirt in the film, he also has a Signals tour poster in his bedroom (a bootleg poster readily available on ebay), and “I Luv Rush” is written on his cast. - Thanks to Byron Chavarria, Ed Dobbins and Alex Fulop for the headsup!Rush Referenced on "Veep"
Paul Gilbert remembers touring with Rush
In episode 15 of his Youtube series "Scarified", guitarist Paul Gilbert of Mr. Big tells of touring with Rush, including meeting Geddy Lee the first time, getting his drill caught in his hair, and learning "In The Mood" to play it on stage with Rush . You can check it out here. - Thanks to Rosmakloma for the headsup!
Chelsea Handler is a Rush fan - as spotted during today's episode of "Chelsea"
Neil Peart's "News Weather and Sports" - May 2016
ole's Andy Curran talks upcoming Rush releases and the band's future
"Aside from prepping the 40th anniversary deluxe edition of 2112 and a documentary of Rush’s R40 tour that is looking to be released in 2016’s fourth quarter, Curran is pouring over the catalogue to prep long-unavailable titles for reissue, digitally, on CD and on vinyl."As far as the future of Rush, Curran feels positive that Rush will be writing, recording and releasing more music.
“If I was a gambling man, I would say those guys are going to record some more music,” Curran says. “The live component is certainly a question mark with Neil, but they’re still quite young at heart. I don’t see those guys sitting still for too long and we’ll be working with them in the future.”Click here for more. - Thanks to Ed at Rushisaband for the headsup!
Geddy Lee attends Pearl Jam show in Toronto
Alex Lifeson: Songwriter, Producer & Musician - Guitar Connoisseur magazine
Auction Item: Signed copy of "Art of Rush" to benefit New Canvas of Life
A copy of "Art of Rush", signed by Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson and Neil Peart, is part the 2016 New Canvas of Life — The Art of Transplantation, a month-long online auction to raise funds and awareness for organ donations and transplants.
Now open for bidding here, the auction benefits the Multi-Organ Transplant Program, University Hospital, London Health Sciences Centre and Aeolian Hall, and ends at 9 pm May 25. Click here for more info. - Thanks to RushFanForever for the headsup!
Neil Peart writes foreword for David Phillips' "From The Riser, A Drummer's Perspective II"
Back in early 2014 I told you about a new photography book by David Phillips, which includes a forward written by Neil Peart (who also appears on the cover). Phillips is publishing the book himself and has launched a new indiegogo site to fund the project. Check out the video below."Much hard work and love has already gone into the making of this book. The project is near completion with all the photos already taken and approved. The money raised from this project will take the ‘From The Riser’ to its conclusion by covering the majority of the printing, production and design costs of the book. Plus additional costs for re-designing the book website, shipping and storage. This is a self-published book.Click here for more info and to help fund the project. - Thanks to David Phillips for the headsup!
"The only way the book will come to market is through your pledges. I would like to say a big thank you in advance to anyone that pledges support for my project. I know from the huge amount of warm feedback and comments on my first book that this second book will not disappoint. I feel that the more I photograph drummers the better I get and I am very excited to show the world this new collection of photos which captures that magic of drumming."