First Time Hearing RUSH - “Xanadu” Reaction- Live In Montreal 1981 | Asia and BJ

[@Roddrummer]

One of the most utterly sublime live performances of any song in rock history. This is where you can truly see, and hear, what is meant when people say, 'Rush are the world's smallest ever symphony orchestra'....

[@kevinmcfarlane2752]

Peak Rush! 👍👌

[@MarkoMakela-kk7qf]

I think this performance in total is very hard to be exceeded or that any three member band could pull out in lkive something like this. And even many of those people who don't like this kinda of progressive rock music, do appriciate the talent of this band. Often on some song the lyrics are quite meaningless or too mundane, but RUSH did never fell to that with any of their songs. And only after I saw before Neil Peart passed away his interview and as he was telling that this Ayn Rand and her philosphy had made him the biggest impact as lyricist I understand why it all came together as it was.

[@tomperugini189]

Well said

[@guaporeturns9472]

Did you know they did the album version of Xanadu (A Farewell to Kings) in one , uncut take… no cutting or mixing.. just three guys playing a song in a studio and recording it in one take. Pretty impressive

[@locodragon28]

Rush is truly one of the best bands ever

[@DAMHoo]

Three of the most talented musicians ever all in the same band. Incredible

[@joppydoppyroppycoppy]

I have been listening to Rush for 35 years. I am always amazed how much *sound* these three guys make. It's not like there is six guys in the band. Amazing.

[@xanthesmith5554]

Agreed!

[@xanthesmith5554]

Three very talented Musicians of our time ⏲️ ❤️ ⏳️

[@michaelakkerman407]

You just witnessed 3 men give the best performance ever. What they can do with only 3 of them is staggering.

[@Experiment-ft3hg]

Xanadu in this song refers to a secret place of paradise hidden in the Himalaya mountains. It is special because time stands still there, If you can find the hidden paths to enter Xanadu you will live forever as long as you don't leave. The catch is first the time of day you enter is way it will stay for as long as you are there. In the song it is always night, Second because time stands still there is no change ever. Again in the song it tells how the stars are stuck in the sky never moving. The end result is a slow descent into madness. The moral of the song is" Be careful what you wish for " and accept your mortality and simply enjoy the time given to you.

[@kben036]

“Time stands still” …I see what you did there!

[@aaronswartz4788]

It is also based on Kubla Kahn, a famous unfinished poem about Xanadu by Samuel Coleridge. While high on opium he dreamt up this poem. Upon waking he was able to recall and write down three stanzas, but was unable to finish the poem in it's entirety - a fitting end to an attempt to describe utopia/perfection - because perfection can never be achieved ;-). Cements the genius of Neil Peart - what a topic to write a song about.

[@fuckamericanidiot]

@@aaronswartz4788 I'd go further than that, it's mainly based on the Coleridge poem xd

[@grumpyoldgraymetalhead2441]

@@aaronswartz4788I believe that was the inspiration for the movie Lost Horizon.

[@guaporeturns9472]

Everyone should read the poem first… makes the song that much cooler. Samuel Taylor Coleridge was such a great poet

[@eddietorres9732]

The magic that came out of just 3 human beings, Rush was and will always be one of the best rock groups ever to walk this earth.

[@garylagstrom3864]

Alex Lifeson: RUSH guitarist and Guru Extraordinaire! The HEART ❤️ AND SOUL OF RUSH! THE FUNNIEST MAN ON THE PLANET AND GREATEST SPEECH GIVER OF ALL TIME!!! BLAH…BLAH…BLAH! HATS 🎩 OFF TO ALEX LIFESON 😎😎😎👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🎸🎸🎸

[@jasong6967]

Just in case y’all wondering rush is the best band of all time. their are called the Trinity for a reason. You have the best guitar player the best drummer and lyricist and the best bass player of all time all in the same band. It’s a miracle. These are actual doctors of musicianship.

[@garysteinert8040]

You just witnessed the absolute best… ever. He is singing and playing keys with his hands and bass with his feet. And while playing bass and singing, he is playing keys/synth with his feet. Insane.

[@LearnToRefine]

^^^^ Exactly That !!!!

[@cbf63]

In the live Rush in Rio dvd Geddy is even doing his laundry on stage.... Amazing 😮

[@michaelboggus9993]

Don't forget during the guitar solo he plays rhythm guitar.

[@donaldcampbell9219]

I saw these guys in concert 19 times from 1982 to 2015. And I wish I could’ve seen them more.

[@Gary-zq9dr]

Starting at 7:30 Geddy is playing foot pedals, bass guitar, and singing!

[@crhu319]

Notice the absolutely perfect timing even on chimes, gongs...despite the many timing and key changes. Neal Peart was an absolute master. No better drummer ever did prog rock.

[@williamdemerchant7295]

When Geddy sings Xanadu or Kubla Khan it's a signal for a transition in the music and it's almost like another song within the song. They worked so well together.

[@kevinmcfarlane2752]

He started on piano and once you know that you can feel the influence.

[@guaporeturns9472]

They did the version that appears on A Farewell to Kings in one take no stops ,cuts or mixing, backing track , nothing , one take beginning to end …absolutely flawless , and that’s the way they played in every concert I ever went to.. perfection

[@amexemoor443]

Probably the greatest live performance…..ever!!!! I also found out that the original recording was done in 1 take!!!!!! These some bad boys!!! RIP Mr. Neal Peart

[@markmiller3101]

Three friends when they really started the band and they never broke up, bitched about each other and always had each other backs, even to this very day. Not to mention they made some of the greatest music in history. Rest in peace Professor, you are missed in life but your music will be with us forever. ❤

[@timothyirwin8974]

Their first album "Rush" from 1974 was with a different drummer, John Rutsey, who had been with the band since 1968. Due to health problems which took a toll especially on the road he had to quit the band being replaced by Peart. John passed away in 2008.

[@grahamkey8496]

Yep, two best friends from high school who were fortunate enough to discover one of the best rock drummers ever!

[@dentondallasandbeyond3460]

A rare thing indeed

[@dentondallasandbeyond3460]

And it’s just 3 guys that make all that happen. Best concert I have ever been to.

[@armadillotoe]

I am lucky enough to have those types of friends even after 50 years, but unfortunately, none of us were musical geniuses.

[@kimbarry4674]

Yaaaay more RUSH❤🇨🇦 Working Man live in Cleveland is a must see

[@jeffmorrison2147]

You get lost in the music, and forget all this is being generated by 3 people. True masters of their craft

[@marca81]

RUSH is Arguably the best rock band ....ever.

[@guaporeturns9472]

Not arguably

[@luiscarmona8147]

Rush has always make music to match their unbelievable stories or messages...this Magical composition, Xanadu, a place where you can live for ever and then, as the story tells, deeply regret it, simply puts you in a trance from beginning to end, building up this awesome atmosphere , as I understand it, as the character takes off on this journey to reach that immortal place which, at the end, turns into a prison...Only Rush can make can make something this magnificent and dreamy. I mean, these guys have songs about tress, a car, about life in the spotlight, about the radio, about a thunderstorm, Designs, Big Money, about feeling out of place when growing up, and so many....They shaped my life and learned from Neil`s lyrics more than I ever did in school or University. Their catalog for over 45 years, staying together as a band is a testament for everyone to hear, to see and to guide you through this complicated world we live in. These are the three most talented musicians I have ever come across and have been listening to them since they came out from Toronto, Canada...They are, simply put, The Best Band ever.

[@vincechampion3031]

From the poem Kubla Khan by Samuel Taylor Coleridge

[@Swonder1972]

Shortly after, Iron Madien used Coleridge's "Rime of the ancient Mariner". It is a trip that a rhyming junkie from the 18th century would inspire so much progressive rock themes...

[@SamuelGirard-p1m]

@@Swonder1972 And it dispels the myth that "Metal Heads" are somehow unintellectual or zero brain headbangers who lack education or culture.

[@HawkFest]

The lyrics of Xanadu were written by Neil Peart. He was _inspired_ by Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s poem "Kubla Khan".

[@kevinvernon5851]

Xanadu has always been my favorite Rush song, I wore out several cassette tapes of Exit Stage left, the album that this video was filmed for. People must realize that there are only 3 people in this band and there are no backing tracks to help them because they insist on playing everything live. Alex plays the 6 and 12 string double neck while Geddy has the Base and 12 string. I found the use of heavy rock chords with a 12 string very unique and what is lost in this video is how they use Moog Taurus pedals along with all the other instruments they handle. This song is timeless, hearing it live is incredible, the floor rumbles and the synth hits your entire body, no way to describe, you have to feel it.

[@kevinmcfarlane2752]

I remember hearing Geddy say circa 1980 that Xanadu was the song that best represented what Rush was all about. A Farewell to Kings was the first album I heard not long before then. Permanent Waves was the first album I bought in “real time.” Then I bought each original studio album on release until Clockwork Angels. Of course, I did pick up the prior studio albums way back.

[@robertboston7872]

I was at all three Toronto shows and can attest your absolutely right was awesome feeling WAS A RUSH

[@jasontaylor5042]

The single greatest live performance in the history of music!!!!

[@NASA-stole-our-money]

Taylor...ABSOLUTELY! My momma's family, Taylors, were from Louisiana. Houston now. Thanks for comment.

[@FUBAR1986]

Their music is a movie into itself that grabs you and takes you away…. They are the kind of band that was absolutely made for vinyl parties…. Got all smoked up and just listen to the whole album with a bunch of friends… those were the days ☮️❤️🙏🌎🌏🌍🇺🇸❤️☮️

[@TroyOttosen-jg7tt]

I used to sit up on a big Alaskan mountainside looking out over Hundreds of miles of view and listen to the whole Rush 2112 album! Mid 90’s Eagle River AK! Priceless!😉👍

[@garylagstrom3864]

This is my essay to people who may not know RUSH or who Neil was professionally and his contributions to the art of drumming and lyrical writing! Enjoy! RUSH is THE PERFECT EXAMPLE of the fluidity of MASTERING TIME SIGNATURES! I play drums and there are a few things that you need to know about Neil Peart’s ( pronounced PEER-T) character: First he writes the lyrics so he knows in advance what TYPE of song it’s meant to be ie ballad, driver, etc. Second he COMPOSES on the drums… like a carpenter who looks at a set of blueprints before building the object. Neil lays out a SKETCH in his mind of the VOICES of the drumset and builds the song from there. He is also a great LISTENER knowing when NOT to step over Geddy’s singing or Alex’s solos! Finally, he had perfect timing and fluidity of time changes. He said himself that it’s not about COUNTING the time signatures as much as fluid motion to change the tempo without counting: in other words it should FLOW! He hates repeating the same drum patterns in the same song meaning if he plays a fill one way the first time around he will play it differently the second time around. IE. Rolls down the toms the first time around and triplets or quads (all four limbs) the second time around. In short there will NEVER be another like him on planet earth 🌍 🌏 🌎! REST IN PEACE PROFESSOR! With heart felt admiration and sincerity! Gary

[@cygnus62]

I always thought the best way to listen to RUSH in a recliner with the lights off and eyes closed. I think BJ says it best, it's like watching Picasso paint and as a longtime fan I agree.

[@billdncn]

I was lucky enough to attend their Exit Stage Left tour, In Norfolk, Va. I think Lol. . It was nothing short of what you are seeing here. Still, the best concert I have been to and at my age, will always be the best. These 3 guys don't just play music, They paint a picture. RIP Neal Peart.... I too have goose bumps and it's been years. Thanks for posting.❤‍🩹

[@Maxfr8]

Xanadu is the greatest rock song ever composed.

[@brendanward2257]

Beats Stairway to Heaven 😢

[@joeday4293]

"Are y'all hearing what I'm hearing?" Heh. I actually said out loud to the TV, "Oh, honey, I've been hearing it for forty years." ✌️😎 Yeah, you better eat your Wheaties and do your homework and take your vitamins and say your prayers before you try putting together a piece of music like this, much less pulling it off at that high a level absolutely live. This is Rush during a brief slice of time where Geddy Lee had become fully involved with keyboards, but Neil peart's drum set was still 100% acoustic. That would change two years from the release of this video. This is from "Exit Stage Left," the greatest and most revered of their several live albums, which by default makes it one of the greatest live albums in rock history. I wasn't at this concert, but believe it or not, I saw it on MTV one Saturday night, back when the M still stood for "music." Can you believe there was a time in living memory when MTV would play a complete Rush concert?

[@scotthannigan3569]

If you ever had time to look again at the 10: minute mark when he starts to sing, you cant see it but he is singing, playing the bass, and playing the keyboards with his feet.. it will blow your mind to see him and think about it.

[@Jo-oc-0]

Love your reactions, to my absolutely FAVORITE band. ❤

[@RedPillMode]

One can see how it hit Asia emotionally. Just like it has hit all of us.

[@justpedal65]

If you notice the three sections of this song is future (looking forward to xanadu), present (knee deep in it), and past (having regrets). It's the metaphorical "the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence". Rush is always telling a story and their music is simply there to make it more dynamic... kind of like an orchestra during a play. Red Barchetta is one of the best. Lifeson actually makes his guitar sound like squealing tires. Really digging your vids.

[@rick5440]

Rush were more than artists, they were craftsmen too. Their dedication to their craft sets the standard.

[@mikefuchs-sb8pv]

right, every aspect of their music, art, business, practice...everything...and like BJ said- Picasso like in music

[@dannychase1787]

The G.O.A.Ts! Hands down the best live performance of all time!

[@MichaelRojhay]

I got to see them 3 times...Crazy Rush fans have seen them over 100 times...WHAT A BAND!!!

[@somersetcace1]

I got to see them twice on Moving Pictures and Subdivisions. Both fantastic shows.

[@djinx296]

@@somersetcace1I've had the pleasure of seeing them 7 times between 1977 and 2013. My first concert was Rush with UFO opening for them when I was 14.

[@byronness7385]

I’ve seen them 14 times 🤘

[@Fred-vy1hm]

I would substitute the word crazy with lucky. 😊

[@JPMadden]

Playing a piece of music this complicated without a mistake is remarkable to we normal humans, but not for Rush. When they recorded the song, they played it just once, and that's what's on the album. The technicians at the recording studio were stunned. Another great song is "La Villa Strangiato," which was inspired by a dream the guitarist Alex Lifeson had. The album version is good, but I prefer the alternate version they recorded for the music video.

[@debbieplato5107]

Incredible performance of an amazing song! Alex and Geddy joking around on stage while playing Incredible music! ❤❤❤

[@robcandiani6355]

My favorite band of all time, Rush is phenomenal.

[@jimwillride]

❤❤❤ I appreciate your apprecition of this great tune!!! Much love ya'll

[@markb.2112]

62 years on this earth, and have yet to hear anything like this performance. Simply the best!

[@scottbaxtrom4324]

Best live band.Seen then 3 times over the last 40 years. Xanadu is a mystical place and they create the atmosphere and mood of the song and the music together so masterfully. I love Rush. RIP Neil Peart 🙏.

[@byronness7385]

They’re so good, you forget it’s only 3 dudes! Their dedication to perfection doing live performances shines through in this one. I have been incredibly lucky to have seen many many many generational bands, and nobody is better live than RUSH!! An the craziest part is they did it for 40 yrs!! I actually think their musicianship got better an better live. This was 1981, check out 2011 working man live and Jacobs ladder live 2015 an you see for yourself Their ability to create an ambiance is like no other a they take u on a journey!

[@willcooper7345]

Does anyone else amaze at the orchestral crescendo finale that they tacked on into this at the end? An Orchestra of 3! Absolutely Brilliant. I am a life RUSH Fan - through and through since 1980… and I’ve seen them over 5 times, including with my son… so I like all eras of the band… but… The more I hear this 1981 (I 1st saw the same song/Tour in Detroit that year) show… I increasingly feel this was a pinnacle sound, era, and performance of even their highest achievement.

[@jackgilchrist]

Yep, we're hearing what you're hearing, Asia. That's why we're Rush fans. 🙂

[@Musicman1967-q4o]

3 individuals, making all that music. Musicianship at its best

[@markstromberg1148]

Reminder: That "wall of sound," those tremendous and integrated tones and instruments, all of it were created and performed (and live) by just three people! The best ever; no question. And their performances accentuate each other perfectly; go back to the guitar solo at the end and listen to how the drums and cymbal crashes follow and enhance, rather than drown, the guitar solo. It is rock as symphonic performance. Rush's music was and remains intelligent music for intelligent listeners.

[@Matty0923]

In my opinion, the absolute best live performance ever, by these 3 musical masters!!!!!!!! EPIC!!!!!!!!! This tour was my first concert in Providence RI and the first of 22 times I saw Rush. Miss them so much. RIP Professor!!!!!!!!!

[@Steve_Blackwood]

Yeah, Asia, I’ve been listening to this performance for 40+ years, and it still gives me goosebumps. Simply perfect.

[@Rufus6540]

I absolutely love your chuckle at the end of that song because that's what Rush is all about. 3 absolute masters of their craft executing at the highest level and being entertaining as all get out!

[@MichaelRojhay]

U2 do not do enough RUSH...Natural Science...what a song!!!!

[@agneskurzaj]

As a former Anthropology student and lover of ancient history let me shed some light on two things. First, the description of Xanadu. An idyllic place based on the poem by Shang Tu. It was the residence of the Mongolian General Kubla Khan who was the grandson of Genghis Khan. It was also used in the movie that was in the early 80 s starring Olivia Nuton John. It was set in a mystical space of musical minstrel sisters. So my Canadian brothers got it right. A mythical world of perfection. Check out the movie. Canadian Grandma Lori. C.

[@Jo-oc-0]

Exactly, and how at the end of the song they realize immortality would be a terrible curse. Interesting that at the beginning of the song you hear chickadees. At first it gives the impression of nature, but you realize they are caged birds and probably not so happy. All that is foreshadowed in the opening few minutes… Awesome composition ! ! !

[@snakeinthegrass7443]

I'm shocked you guys haven't heard this yet at this point in your rock and roll life!! This tour was my very first concert at age 13. Sadly, I was enjoying the party all around me too much and I don't remember much of the show, but it did turn me into a lifelong fan!!🤘🤘 And sharing this with you guys makes it extra special today, some 43 years later. ❤❤

[@michaelzilkowsky2936]

Asia's facial reactions make watching Xanadu for the millionth time a joy once again. 🙂 And it is going to be the anniversary of this recording on the 27th of March. "Thank you very much Montreal; Good Night!" I could geek out endlessly about all the little moments that make this performance so wonderful..... Here are a few that I think deserve honorable mention. Neil hits his kick drum SO hard....and the accuracy, speed and power of the concert tom fill at 1307 is magnificent. It is even more magnificent if you listen at half speed..... He obviously spent a lot of time constructing and arranging his kit not only to be playable for him but also visually appealing for the audience. That perfect rosewood finish and brass rims.... The cage with the triangles and wood blocks and bell trees...the placement of the concert toms over two timbales and a glockenspiel placed just above the timbales and below the concert toms......and the cherry on top.... the tubular bells...lol. Just the right amount of overkill. The lighting..... good old Par 64 cans. After Rush started headlining their own shows they developed a reputation for their light show. Theatrical, moody, expressive, all done with simple fixtures that were thoughtfully positioned and focused, and with excellent gel color choices. I find this type of show (also Pat Benatar's lighting on the live Shadows of the Night...Loverboy live in Vancouver in 82, Journey live in 81....) to be so much more interesting and evocative than the new fangled moving trusses and LEDs that blind more than they illuminate or create moods. Geddy's synthesizer...... today, a MIDI cable allows one keyboard press to effortlessly trigger any array of other synths and their sounds, a drum machine, a sequencer..... a backup vocal.... 1s and 0s moving down a single cable. But in the late 70s and early 80s, analog synths couldn't do that, UNLESS you invented your own way to step on a Moog Taurus pedal synth and direct the voltage from the foot pedal into the proper place on the Oberheim synthesizer in order to play its sound (the Taurus voltage signal substituting for pressing a key on the Oberheim). In this instance, the Taurus patch (sound) on high octave setting plays that note and triggers the low sound of the Oberheim starting at 7:27, then he changes the pre set on the Taurus to Variable in the high octave setting to play the part starting at 7:35. Same low Oberheim roar but this time with the 'tweety' top patch (sound) of the Taurus pedals. So in addition to the much mentioned 'singing and playing bass and foot pedals at the same time!' he is also changing patches on the fly (as is Alex). [this is what I meant by all the little moments one could geek out to....] And analog synths were a lot less stable and reliable than later digital synths, so the sheer logistics of keeping his system up and running night after night, tear down, set up, tear down, set up.... keeping them all in tune.... That in itself is a work of art, as was your reaction.

[@jarem2112]

Love that PR shirt! "The lost Xanadu" ... The greatest band performing at their best IMHO... Just to point out that Alex and Geddy are not just tapping, they are playing taurus pedals... Thats where a lot of the synth bass notes are coming from... would have been so much mind boggling if they would show that part as in some of their other live shows do. Great reaction guys!

[@ten4thebguy]

The most genius rock group of all time ❤️ nobody will ever touch these legends

[@Jo-oc-0]

Agreed, but I look forward to some young musicians being inspired by this and having the courage to change the world.

[@lexyabby9]

Xanadu was the movie with Olivia Newton John. It means a beautiful place. It's hard to believe how much time has gone by! Then I hear BJ say... I think that's how you pronounce it 😂 Then I know I'm old!

[@usposandman]

The guitarists have known each other since they were kids. And to both grow up to be rock lords is awesome!

[@damonlowell5782]

The swelling guitar notes in the intro are done with the volume knob on the guitar. He turns it all the way down, strikes the note, and then while holding and sustaining the note he turns up the volume. EVH did it a lot. This is Rush in their prime. Everything you hear is coming from 3 guys. The quintessential power trio. Epic performance of an epic song from an epic band.

[@BenDover-ol3lp]

Actually this effect is done using a Volume Pedal creating the swells, it looks like a Wah Wah pedal, watch his foot going up and down lowering and raising the volume ... foot not hand.

[@mikewood6071]

My utmost sympathy for you Asia and B.J. for completely missing the 80s…the most iconic time in music history But I’m glad to see that you’re catching up lol Love you guys, keep up the awesome videos

[@louofm1]

This album, "Exit Stage Left" was the very first vinyl I ever bought, back in the early 1980s, as a young teenager. I listened to the entire album over and over again. To this day, Rush is my very favorite band of all time. Their live performances were incredible. I was fortunate enough to see them live in every tour from 1984 through their final tour In 2015.

[@johnnyboyssite]

same here! it was 1982, i was 14 and later that year went to my first ever concert at Radio City - The Signals Tour - Dec 1982

[@djinx296]

Three guys making all that sound. Absolutely stunning live performance, possibly the greatest rock performance ever.

[@lookmanohands1966]

Rush, Yes, King Crimson, Pink Floyd, etc. Progressive rock has the best players and compositions of any genre. Keep going with early works of these bands, guaranteed to blow your mind.

[@garylagstrom3864]

From a Gary to Geddy your one of the most talented musician of all time! No one touches your talent on bass, keyboards, and singing! You are the definition of Unique and RUSH is not RUSH without your playing and vocals! To quote the movie: I LOVE YOU MAN! Alex and Neil as well!!

[@truthenema245]

Saw Rush 18 times . Greatest 3 piece band in rock history. Maybe the greatest rock band ever.

[@64bdchaney]

This live performance of Xanadu is by far a masterpiece of talent by three men. What stands out to me is the joy, the brotherhood and perfect musicianship by Alex Lifeson, Geddy Lee and the "Professor" Neil Peart. I have been hooked on Rush since 1976, and I was lucky to see my first Rush concert during their Moving Pictures tour when this song was played on the tour, and it was played to the tee matching this video. One of the greatest rock-progressive rock band of all time. The G.O.A.T's in the rock world.

[@jeffross8400]

I remember like it was YESTERDAY 42 years ago watching this one live for the first time....I was one of the lucky ones to see them perform this one live...

[@darrencorder3671]

I've listened to this song a thousand times. It still brings an emotion within me that has never abated. And to now hear and see it through your eyes, and your own emotions that you freely expressed, I'm just grateful.

[@jaysonkirsch1937]

Neil Peart, greatest percussionist the world has ever seen! Geddy Lee, the greatest bassist ever who can play bass and keyboard and vocals all at the same time! Alex Lifeson, one of the greatest guitarist ever, yet underrated! These three guys made Rush perfect!! Beyond amazing!!! My favorite band ever!!

[@gregorybennett5640]

A lot of bands do not sound as good as RUSH does live, that's why I typically prefer studio versions for reactions. But RUSH is the exception, they would not record anything that could not be reproduced live. The other really awesome thing about RUSH is that The 2 guitar players have been best friends since they were 13 years old. The drummer came into the band after the first album but quickly fit in, in his unique way. The guys are hilarious, do not take themselves too seriously... Great people and band, top to bottom.

[@davparksoh]

Pro musician here - so glad you did this live version of Xanadu - watch the entire 'Exit Stage Left' concert - best rock performance in history - this style of rock isn't 'psychedelic' - this is progressive rock, which often blends classical, jazz, r&b with rock - it can be very technical & complex - Rush & Yes are examples of top prog rock bands that achieved great commercial success - Rush had many hits over 40 yrs & were one of the few bands that sounded as good or better live than their studio releases - absolute legends - great reaction Asia & BJ!

[@jcjrsmith]

They are so talented. Geddy Lee on vocals, bass, bass pedals, and keyboards, often all at the same time. Alex Leifson is a master of guitar. And Neil Peart - Rest in Peace to the greatest drummer who ever lived.

[@ianmitnick8245]

Xanadu is a summer palace or heavenly paradise like palace in China (or was long ago) north of Beijing in Mongolia - back in history there was Genghis Khan and Kubla Khan - author and poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge wrote poems/ writings about Kubla Khan and Xanadu - also Xanadu is mentioned in the famous movie "Citizen Kane" by Orson Wells as the large mansion in the film is called Xanadu - Billionaire Bill Gates also named one of his mansions/houses Xanadu 2.0 and that is a real story - Xanadu was also used as a movie title of course "Xanadu" with the Late Olivia Newton John (Of "Grease) in it.

[@surlechapeau]

Asia & BJ, you’ll love their “Closer To The Heart”, “Circumstances” and “Trees”!!!

[@Jo-oc-0]

ya, Closer to the Heart is one of my favorites !

[@EdwardRushMan]

Best Live Performance of all time! Alex Lifeson - 6 string guitar, 12 string guitar, pedal synthesizer, volume pedal; Geddy Lee - Vocals, bass guitar, 12 string guitar, bass pedal, taurus pedal, electric piano/synthesizer; Neil Peart - Lyrics, Drums, orchestra bells, tubular bells, wind chimes, crotales, timbales, timpani, gong, temple blocks, bell tree, triangle, and melodic cowbells. Based on Kubla Khan (Xanadu) by Samuel Taylor Coleridge Coleridge composed his poem, ‘Kubla Khan’, in a state of semi-conscious trance either in the autumn of 1797 or the spring of 1798 and published in 1816. The whole poem is pervaded by an atmosphere of dream and remains in the form of a vision. The vision embodied in Kubla Khan was inspired by the perusal of the travel book, Purchas His Pilgrimage. Coleridge had taken a dose of opium as an anodyne, and his eyes closed upon the line in the book, “At Zanadu Kubla Khan built a pleasure palace.” But this opened his creative vision, and the poem of about 200 lines was composed in this state of waking dream. On being fully awake, he wrote the poem down. The theme of the poem is unimportant. It describes the palace built by Kubla Khan, the grandson of Chengis Khan, the great rule of central Asia.

[@grazynafrey7545]

I've heard this so many times and I still can't believe it was accomplished live. Perfection.

[@Diggerdog2nd]

In that song Geddy the singer played Bass guitar, keyboards with hands & also with his feet & at the very end the bottom neck of his double neck is a 6 string guitar. Doing 5 different things in one song is amazing. And when Geddy needed a little help Alex the guitarist also played keyboards with his feet on pedals too.

[@rattan3793]

Geddy's doubleneck is actually a 12 string on the bottom. It has 12 tuners on the headstock, 6 on the back and 6 on the sides.

[@RoarOfWolverine]

Xanadu is a song they almost always played live. To see these guys live was a surreal experience. To stand or sit in the presence of three of the most talented musicians was mesmerizing. Every performance was as close to perfection as it gets. I was fortunate enough to see Rush 32 time, starting in 1980 Permanent Waves tour and never missed a tour after that. That was the tour for their Motion Pictures album that as released in 1981. It would have been the second time I saw them and I was pumped up. As a musician myself, I try to watch everything they’re doing, but it’s impossible to watch all three at one time.

[@Land-Shark]

I started playing bass guitar in 1982 because of the music of Rush, and "Xanadu" was the first song I learned to play. 42 years later, I still play bass guitar (six-string bass), and always play at least an hour's worth of Rush songs whenever I play. So much great music from those guys...

[@willinghamsctt]

The beginning of Xanadu is one of the best pieces of atmospheric music ever. and with 3 guys!

[@robertpinazza4043]

Regal feel indeed . I’d add otherworldly & spiritual as well.

[@squidly2112]

Greatest performance of all time !!! .. RIP Neil Peart...

[@brentd.4093]

I was so fortunate to this the concert in 1981 in Edmonton , Canada. I have been a Rush fan since I was 11 years old. Im 58 now and love them so much. RIP Neil. This performance just exemplifies Rush. No tracks No dubs No loops. Just 3 extremely talented guys. Alex on double neck guitar and playing bass pedals. Geddy, ripping bass, keyboards bass pedals and sings....and Neil.....an entire percussion section . You notice the crowd noise crescendo after the intro because they did such a good job reproducing a song like Xanadu live.

[@huhu63uk]

OVER 40 years old,,,, and I still listen to it in the car,,,, so good

[@kma4444]

I've listened to this dozens of times and it just keeps getting better/more amazing. Truly one of the most amazing recordings of a live rock performance. I imagine, when Alex is looking over at Geddy smiling while Neil is destroying it behind them that he is even amused at how amazing they are playing.

[@scottdpublic]

I've seen this video at least 1000 times and I still get goosebumps at the finale every time. That guitar solo is sublime! Farewell To Kings tour was my first RUSH concert and this song hooked me for life.

[@justgreta1796]

Love, love, love Rush. Three incredibly talented artists. I can't get enough of them. Great reaction. Thank you!!!

[@Buds1own]

Love it!!! learned from Neil!!!! ♥ maybe?? Priceless - for KING & COUNTRY ♥♥♥

[@christopherhuot2826]

U Guys are in for a treat 😅😊

[@jorgediaz4279]

Awesome job you guys. Nice shirt young lady b😊

[@mkg59]

1981...3 guys. 3 GUYS making extraordinary music.

[@scottlaughlin9897]

Rush is the most talented 3 man band on the earth! They are so proficient in their art. Thank you for doing this video. Is stated one of the greatest live performances ever caught on video! Asia getting goosebumps is well worth the watch. Shows me she knows a great performance when she sees one.

[@somecallmetim2112]

Neil's percussion pit on this stage includes, among other things, 4 sets of wind chimes, 2 triangles, a glockenspiel (what you think is a xylophone but is metal instead of wood), a bell tree, wooden temple blocks, and set of a tubular bells/chimes, all typically orchestral instruments. This was just before the golden age of sampling, as you can see and hear from Geddy manually driving the synthesizer tones by changing the modulation with a knob throughout the song, so any sounds that Neil wanted, he had to have the actual instruments physically there.

[@rickthestiks9240]

remember ( red bar cheddar) from the same concert, l.o.l. so many great songs, 🤘🤘🤘

[@STILL-KICKIN]

A 3 man symphonic orchestra in one of the greatest live performances ever recorded!

[@allendixon7700]

😅😅😅😊

[@RobertMichaelStewart]

I had the pleasure of seeing Rush 53 times including the final show at the Forum.... Met Alex that night..... I feel so very blessed.... Love your Rush reactions.... Keep up the good work. Not a bad song in the whole bunch and so many different nuanced themes.... True art indeed!

[@jamesdamiano8894]

This song shows that Neil wasn’t simply a drummer, but a percussionist. Need to check out “By-Tor And The Snowdog” and for a kick ass instrumental “La Villa Strangiato”.

[@teddar69]

Definitely! You just named two of my other favorite Rush songs, along with this one. Neil's drumming on By-Tor is incredible... Underrated and maybe overlooked song of theirs, in my opinion. And La Villa is one of the greatest instrumental rock pieces of all time. Especially love the live version from Exit Stage Left.

[@EchoesDaBear]

Great reaction guys!! Let me tell you - a 2 1/2 hour concert from Rush just flies by! Their songs don't feel like the 10-12 minutes that some last. You get so engrossed in the music, time doesn't exist! They play so tight - often, their live versions are as good or better than the studio counterparts - that's how good each member is - 3 masters of their instruments, working together to create perfection! Cheers.

[@MrDiveDave]

Im 57 and saw them in concert for the Tom Sawyer Album. One of my favorite bands growing up. And Im from Toronto and I met Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson, as a matter of fact I installed their car cell phones in about 88. And Geddy Lees mom owned a convenience store where I lived north of Toronto for awhile and I bought my smokes off her. And he looks like his mom. Amazing band, amazing guys, next level musicians, proud to have been there during their heyday.

[@iKvetch558]

Yesssssss! One of the greatest live performances by any band ever, 3 men playing as a rock orchestra! R.I.P Neil Peart 😢 If you folks want to hear another incredible early live performance by the boys, you should absolutely check out their rendition of By Tor and the Snow Dog off of their first double live album, All The World's A Stage...it is completely unhinged and awesome...you will love the extended psychedelic solo by Alex. There is no version of it on film/video that I know of, but you can find the version with the live track played over the album cover art. 💯

[@scottbaxtrom4324]

The sounds that this 3 man band create is incredible. Rush is Timeless.