Geddy Lee Talks Memoir, What Paul McCartney Told Him About RUSH, Finding Neil Peart + More

[@carriersignal]

Geddy Lee is one cool cat. He comes across as one of the most confident and genuine people I have ever heard speak. I feel so fortunate to have grown up listening to Rush and having them as a part of my musical life.

[@MikeBrown-dk7or]

I saw Rush at the Colonial Tavern in Toronto in the very early 70s. There were just a couple of people in the audience at lunchtime munching on hamburgers and drinking beer. I had never heard of the group but as soon as they opened up and Geddy started singing you just knew they were going to be big.

[@johnnyenglish9622]

"Living in the Limelight the universal dream for those who wish to seem" -Peart-

[@Greg-io1ip]

Nice guys like Geddy are what manhood is actually all about. A male has to be a DECENT HUMAN to have an opportunity to be a MAN. Criminals, bigots, roid boys, Trump punks: None are men. Too selfish and hateful.

[@kwimms]

All these musicians are worshipping Satan and pushing nonsense and chaos. There is little of goodness in their mess.

[@ronaldexumjr.987]

I totally agree. Me too.

[@yaakovs7729]

I just realized that Geddy Lee has been to every Rush concert. Impressive!!

[@BushcraftingBogan]

Half of KISS can't say that! 😮

[@fenderboy68]

All of Kiss is sh!t@@BushcraftingBogan

[@wizardsuth]

He was also there for all their smaller gigs back when they were a bar band.

[@Leon-Servant-of-Christ]

Kind of hard to not have him there and it being rush!! Imagine Geddy misses 1 concert and there's no singer/bassist. Just not possible.

[@elianad2083]

😂😂

[@Sams911]

20:15 .. I LOVE that he corrected himself "When the Germans came in, I should say the Nazis"... there is a major difference and that is lost on many, including at that time.... Shows his deep intellect.

[@frossbog]

Like the difference between democrats and American.

[@Sams911]

@@frossbog exactly!

[@hawkdsl]

@@frossbog Oh that's good... and True.

[@adude394]

The first word that comes to my mind when I think about Rush is: Professionals. You know, there are a lot of successful bands who seemed to prioritize the sex and drugs rather than the rock and roll. Rush, besides being insanely talented musicians, worked their asses off for 4 decades to give their fans the best possible product, both in the studio and on the stage. Those of us who love rock music are the better for it.

[@luapsel77]

I couldn't have put it better myself!. For all the idolization and Mystique around bands like Zeppelin and The Stones- BOTH of which I LOVE their MUSIC, I grew UP on it... But like almost all bands it was the prioritization of the sex and drugs- Which WAS a big part of the Rock and Roll Lifestyle- but then I got older more mature and started listening to a band called Rush, cuz my drummer friend Curtis listened to them, and we used to jam... and just as you said they seem to be more about the music than anything ELSE. Professionalism and PROFESSIONAL MUSICIANS!.. ALL THE WAY!. ROCK ON!

[@alexdifaso4776]

Born and raised in Toronto, RUSH concerts at Maple Leaf Gardens in the 80s and 90s were a thing of magic. Those days are forever etched in my mind. I've had the pleasure of seeing Ged walking down Toronto streets and have met Alex twice randomly and he's fking hilarious ( of course ) and just a sweet guy. Saw Ged the other day at Massey Hall for his book tour and Alex surprised everyone and walked out on stage to interview him. I think everyone in the theatre was teary eyed. We love our guys forever. I hope they do get out there and play again, it IS what they do.

[@bigal1863]

I met Alex lifeson in a guitar store here in Texas several years ago, I didn't recognize him at first and just began jamming along with him for about 20 minutes. He was as friendly and as down to earth as could be and I have been a huge fan ever since.

[@alexdifaso4776]

omg thats AMAZING !@@bigal1863

[@alexdifaso4776]

@@bigal1863 Thats AMAZING! Awesome humans, both of them, sorry all three of them.

[@stephen29]

My first Rush concert was Hemispheres tour in 78 at Maple Leaf Gardens. Saw them in all of the Houston tour dates from then on. Never saw a bad show.....ever!

[@stephenmiller2337]

My first Rush concert was on the Presto tour in Toronto on May 16th 1990. After the concert, I felt like I was walking on air. I was also at the My Effing Life show at Massey Hall. The story of Rush is not just the story of a great band, it is the story of 3 friends and their lifelong journey together.

[@tonyg8471]

Geddy Lee is an amazingly normal guy...given his other-world level of talent. Thanks for doing this interview. Best of luck in the future for Geddy and Alex. RIP Neil.

[@tonyg8471]

@@servethesongs For starters, you have ZERO right to declare what he or anyone else is supposed to do with their legitimately earned resources. Take your leftist garbage back to where it belongs....in the ashes of ruined nations littering the graveyards of history.

[@kwimms]

@@servethesongs Marketing and branding from the little hat corporate music machine is amazing!

[@rolandhouston3195]

​@@servethesongsHe gave most of his prizes baseball collection to the Negro Baseball Hall of Fame, so I'm sure he does way more than that and you.

[@plane_guy6051]

@@servethesongs -- That's sad that you're so jealous of a musician of all people, who happened to beat the odds and actually made some money, because most musicians are flat broke. Perhaps you are one of them which would explain your jealousy.

[@SPAZZYok]

Rush will never know how many human beings their music has touched throughout the world. God Bless Rush. God Bless the maestro!!

[@herosbride2834]

I could listen to Geddy talk all day. He's such a decent guy.

[@youropionmattersnot]

Rush will always be my favorite band for many reasons beyond just the music.

[@scottsharp3356]

We talked about that and a lot of people don’t know but Neil would write lyrics and pass them to Ged/Al, who then either interpreted them or got help from the man because ya gotta have the right amount of weird to bad ass in the ratio. If he had to Geddy would make changes, and then get it approved. That’s why they need to be Lee/Lifeson. RUSH is gone. Can’t replace that.

[@MikeBrown-dk7or]

I saw Rush at the Colonial Tavern in Toronto in the very early 70s. There were just a couple of people in the audience at lunchtime munching on hamburgers and drinking beer. I had never heard of the group but as soon as they opened up and Geddy started singing you just knew they were going to be big.

[@PaulFormentos]

Agree don't call it Rush, Grateful dead called it The Other Ones, do something like that@@scottsharp3356

[@ChicTumshy]

@youropionmattersnot Me too. They transcend all my expectations both musically and performing live. Was a big shock when Neil took ill but they honoured him when they all decided before he passed they would retire the band. Remember the line they once sung “H 2 O, no flow without the other” What a trio.....................what a band. They certainly enhanced my time on this planet and profoundly educated me in many ways. Three very special human beings.

[@piratessalyx7871]

Tom Sawyer and Red Barchetta always....saw RUSH twice!

[@Steve104813]

I'm 57 and feel like a teenage kid watching this interview. He is someone I would be over the moon just to shake his hand. Just listened to all rush as a teenager through Moving pictures, Naming them all in order, all tunes. Just love Rush.

[@S_Shant]

That’s a beautiful thing about music. No matter your age, it does something for a person’s life and spirit

[@mstathakis]

67 Ditto

[@Doris-i3o]

I worked at an airport kiosk years ago, was within 200 ft. of Geddy Lee and couldn't jump out there on the tarmac due to strict rules. I wish I could have spent even 30 seconds talking to him before he boarded that plane.

[@veltonmeade1057]

I am 61, but began playing bass guitar and double bass at the age of 15 years old and studied it at college after high school. I laughed when he said, “bass players are human too”. I remember the last time that I was personally complimented for my bass playing; it was 1997. I was in an alt rock band, playing in a bar near Grant, Michigan (north of Grand Rapids), at a nice bar out in the middle of nowhere. In the back of the dance crowd, there was this older couple dancing. Nothing unusual, they were holding each other, looked like a farming couple. At one time during the night, the wife came up to me and said, “I wanted to say that you are a good bass player”. I’ll never forget it to this day. We bassists do not get compliments very often.

[@piet1587]

Such a great band. No hate, drug issues or drama. Just 40+ years of exceptional music and value to their fans. My favourite Geddy quote pertains to how much he knew he owed his mother growing up and how he wanted to prove he was a hard working professional and not an ‘effin lunatic.

[@wizardsuth]

They did drugs in the late 70's and early 80's, but realized it would prevent them becoming the best musicians they could be, and could also destroy their personal lives, so they quit. _A Passage to Bankok_ is all about drugs: _Wreathed in smoke in Lebanon_ _We burn the midnight oil_ _The fragrance of Afghanistan_ _Rewards a long day’s toil_ _Pulling into Katmandu_ _Smoke rings fill the air_ _Perfumed by a Nepal night_ _The Express gets you there_

[@davidbailey6397]

Geddy had a cocaine problem in the early 80’s. Quit after realizing it was turning him into an a-hole and also damaging his vocal cords. He writes about it in his memoir.

[@JustMe99999]

@@wizardsuth Neil kept smoking pot - it's talked about in Ghost Rider.

[@v-town1980]

Geddy is so down to Earth, it's minb-blowing! You'd think a man with his talent, accomplishments, and influence would be super big-headed. Nope. So humble, kind, and greatful. As were/are Alex and Neil.❤

[@brucesmith9144]

Beside being a superb musician, Geddy is a great storyteller. The history of his mother and father is amazing considering the world at the time.

[@mattdrummond9087]

I met Geddy in KC years ago. He is the sweetest guy you would want to meet, as was Alex. Very gracious and engaging... made me love my favorite band even more. The musical talent he has is astounding.. long live Geddy Lee.

[@davidbily1701]

Always love to hear Geddy. His a great story-teller. A Rush fan since the 70s.

[@RichardFriendartist]

I couldn't stop smiling the whole time I watched this. Thanks to both of you!!

[@bruceh92]

He was our band, Toronto's band, Canada's band, and we were so fortunate to see them live so many, many times including two consecutive New Year's Eve shows at Maple Leaf Gardens where opening act Max Webster, another local band at their peak, completed what were to be very special shows for the home crowd. Thank you Geddy, Alex and Neil. We still love you and always will.

[@annev5912]

I just bought a copy of My Effin Life and a bass guitar for my daughter for Christmas. It would be a dream to get her bass signed by Geddy. She is so inspired by Rush and I know she will be so excited this Christmas.

[@ultimatebasses]

What an amazing interview! Being a Toronto teenager in the 70's, Rush was "the" band. Seeing them play 2112 live after it had just hit the record stores was such a thrill. Thank you Alex, Geddy and Neil.

[@dcore64]

I will never forget, Signals tour 1982. Denver, CO. I was 17 and I happened to be looking at Geddy and he was playing Bass and kicking Taurus pedals while singing. He went to play one of the pedals and it didn't work. He tilted his head for a split second with a half frown and BOOM his right hand went to the keyboard, he was hammering the bass notes with his left, he pulled the mic over a bit with his nose and never missed a beat. Most incredible musician moment of professionalism I have witnessed to this day. Guy is a beast. Just a frickin MONSTER! Cheers Geddy. You taught me much that evening. Number 1 lesson. Never under any circumstances do you stop what you're doing. Play through it like it never happened. Thank you for that sir. Cheers!!!

[@jch5150]

Man I sure love Geddy and all things Rush. So grateful the guys are still at work on things, thank you!!!

[@ChrisMillerdoubleplanet]

My God, how touching... what an incredible, romantic, and tragic story.... Auschwitz.... RUSH was so impactful in my life, in such a positive way over the last 40 years or more, even... This makes it even deeper. Thanks for sharing, Geddy. God bless you and your family.

[@stephenmoncrieff2056]

Geddy is such a genuine incredible person!! I am such a fan of the whole band . I grew up listening to the music but only now am learning about the men behind it . Just amazing!!

[@PatriciaLopez-nr5nf]

I shed tears every time they talk about Neil.

[@morbidmanmusic]

More than family members?

[@cobrakai8105]

Geddy and Neil are the best Bass n' Drum duo period. Songs always with a wild twist 5/8, 7/8 time with these guys dialed in so naturally.

[@Greg-io1ip]

And Alex fills and leads like probably no other human is capable of doing. Alex so immensely underrated. By casuals anyway.

[@alexalexalex797]

Alex lifeson is incredible at filling the space above the drums and bass. And an amazing guitarist all around. He is very underrated. But it makes sense because geddy and neil are basically gods😂

[@walmyvlad2966]

I just realized that Geddys brief summary, almost matter-of-fact manner, of how his parents met would indeed make a spectacular book and/or movie all by itself! Hollywood, get on it!! Just make sure Lee/Lifeson do the soundtrack.

[@pcallas66]

This was a fantastic interview. All of these stories are great. Rush was one of the greatest bands ever.

[@gordonroylambert]

Geddy is demonstrating what intense curiosity looks like…he is continually learning through his desire to seek out and listen to others. This demonstrates humility and is so powerful. We all need to listen and learn vs declare and defend.

[@prestachuck2867]

100%

[@denverwagner201]

It's so COOL that he mentioned Evansville Indiana! That's where I'm from!

[@bblee2112]

I seen them in concert at the Robert's Stadium. Eville IN

[@ozarkprepper1718]

You Canadians have made some of the most wonderful music. Especially in folk and rock. Thats from that mild climate and beautiful landscape.

[@currrensthlm-khonkaen]

yeouuuuu And BTO !!!❤

[@prestachuck2867]

The climate in Toronto can be quite tough. Winter is long and extremely cold there.

[@ozarkprepper1718]

@@prestachuck2867 Missouri has brutal summers and winters.

[@prestachuck2867]

@@ozarkprepper1718 Yes it does. Toronto/Niagara falls in February is otherworldly though.

[@wizardsuth]

@@prestachuck2867 Toronto winters are mild compared to those in several other Canadian cities, e.g. Edmonton or Winnipeg (aka Winterpeg). In Ottawa winter temperatures are typically about 10 C lower than in Toronto. Lake effect keeps Toronto warmer.

[@laurakali6522]

This book is amazing. The chapter about his family is heartbreaking.

[@djrummer64]

I could listen to him all day. Such a great guy.

[@charleskollin1221]

I love the story about Neal's audition. And the drums hanging out of the Ford Pinto 😂. Priceless

[@PaulFormentos]

I had a Pinto once, it was powder blue

[@tperlman22]

One of my favorite rush stories!

[@one80srocker89]

I think it’s so cool the Geddy kept all those small things for memories. The smallest souvenir can hold so many memories. Buying a Rush shirt at the show is much more special than ordering a shirt online. It’s very difficult to part with such sentimental items.

[@learningisfun2108]

Man, I wish I still had my Subdivisions concert white T-shirt from their concert in Detroit (me in the front row!!). I’m keeping an eye out for a knock off. 3/4 length sleeves (black). “So many memories” 🎶

[@ottonormalverbrauch3794]

Thank you for this early christmas present!! I remember inviting my brother to a Rush concert ( Time Machine) and afterwards he spited me for not convincing him earlier that Rush was such a magnificent band.

[@Kieop]

His parents' love story is amazing. We only remember that people died in the camps. The horror is so overwhelming that it's easy to forget that people also LIVED in the camps.

[@suzysuze6797]

Just finished listening to his audiobook. I didn't know anything about Geddy or Rush except that he was a fellow Canadian and now I'm a big fan of both at 54. Great book, life!

[@timelordmagnums357]

Love you Geddy. I appreciate your music. It was tough for me as a kid growing up getting bullied and stuff but your music kept me focused on something enjoyable that made my life more bearable. Love you guys to the day and I'm almost 61

[@WhizzingFish12]

What a top-notch, down to earth guy. Geddy has lived a magical life.

[@michaelbovee6808]

I have been a fan since the early 80’s and saw them a few times. But never really knew much about them as people. And every time I see them in interviews it makes me like them all the more. Mainly because they are so normal and down to earth, and clearly have a genuine appreciation for every part of their journey.

[@moosewhizzerdave2066]

Geddy's mom, like many holocaust survivors, did an audio history recording which can be found online. I've listened to several over the years, including hers, and I recommend it. Geddy covers the subject in his book, but his mother covers her own story in such depth, it is really well worth listening to. My memory is that it is in three parts, it is pretty lengthy, but maybe on your next long car trip or break it up a bit and listen now and then.

[@ceilingunlimited-cp5kq]

I’ve listened to her podcast and what an incredible,gracious and strong woman she was. How her Mother kept the Family alive is extraordinary and incredible! I was moved by her stories and how she survived loosing so much blood by the hands of the Angel of Death Dr. Mangele! Her stories were powerful and inspiring.

[@MyVideos-fm7ug]

Yes, I would most definitely love to hear about that from her perspective. After all… she was there and lived her days moment by moments in a state of uncertainty. I couldn’t imagine. I’ve been in combat with two 12 plus month trips to Iraq, my first one being the actual invasion. One thing about being a soldier is that you at least have that confidence in knowing you are armed, and that you have several other dudes who are as well. Plus, you have 105mm and 155mm long range artillery assets as well as OH-58 reconnaissance helicopters, F-18 fighter bombers fitted with 500 pound J-DAM guided munitions, A-10 thunderbolts with 30mm Gatling guns that can place a single round a square inch apart, hence the legendary sound of BRRRRRRRRRRT coming from the sky, then echoing, thus hearing it once again per burst But to be detained in a concentration camp… you have none of that. Hope is all you have to go on, as you helplessly wait being completely defenseless. Not a good situation at all And I like calling her “Geddy’s mom” as if it’s her name 😆

[@try2enjoythedaylight785]

Can you post a link to this please thank you

[@try2enjoythedaylight785]

Can you post a link to this thanks

[@moosewhizzerdave2066]

It is incredible that she survived Mengele. There can't be all that many who did. That alone makes her oral history incredibly important.

[@busterknott4168]

I heard Rush for the first time on the radio one summer evening in 1975 when I was sitting on the front porch smoking a joint with my best friend at the time. The song was "Working Man" and I was absolutely blown away by the bass player who I learned later was a young Jewish man from Canada named Geddy Lee. At the time I was a drummer in my Jr. High band but I was so impressed with not only the band but also the bass player that I decided then and there that I was going to play bass. Soon after I quit playing drums and transitioned to playing bass and I've never looked back. I've always admired Geddy Lee, not only as a bass player but also as a man. I admire his humility, his grace, and his sense of humor and I always will.

[@sisco302]

What impresses me most about Geddy and Rush is how good they are in concert! I’ve been to a lot of rock concerts and some bands sucked live. But RUSH are such great musicians that they actually elevated in concert both times that I saw them!

[@FernandoHatsumura]

18:27 About Paul McCartney

[@TheBasementguy]

Amazing interview, Geddy was very well spoken and genuine!

[@lancenutter1067]

Saw Rush 2x. In Boise May 15, 1984 and then again April 5, 2011 in Louisville. The second time I was blown away by the length of time played (two separate concerts really, with a 10 min break in the middle) and the quality. The first time I was about 10 feet off the stage and mostly just remember them being really loud. I couldn’t hear my car start when I left the building and headed home. Both times took were amazing experiences though. Thanks for all the great music! My favorite album is Moving Pictures.

[@DavidMohr-d7z]

Don't ever stop rocking Geddy hope to see you on the stage 🙂

[@fenderstratocastertelecast8479]

There are gold stories in geddy's archive, It Is lovely to go into that journey from one of the most talented band... I miss RUSH Kind regards from México

[@beadybaby]

I love Rush. I love Geddy. I have loved them since I saw them on MTV 1:44 in the early 80s. Subdivisions knocked my effin’ socks off.

[@2012begiinings]

My best memories of high school with friends gathering and listening to Rush', concert road trips in 1979. Sharing albums, buying albums. Building large speakers on our own, to crank it up".... yes Rush was our groups favorite

[@sco3592]

One cool dude. An amazing life. Fun to listen to - have to get that book.

[@HawkqOjOp]

Bass players ARE human to, and one is also an historically brilliant vocalist!!! Rush is part of my growing up and a part of my f'n life lol. My high school Levi's jean jacket had the giant 2112 star on the back - I made it. Seen them 4 times but I know many have seen ALL their shows. I'm so attracted to the technical part of the music and for that reason, there's a strange ability for me to instantly memorize it (yes, I'm a girl lol). I too am so grateful we can hear these stories and enjoy from afar the GeddyAlex friendship. SO miss Neal. I lost my best friend of several decades, a 2nd close friend and then my boyfriend all within 4 months. Your parents fell in love to bring us a prodigy. 🍷

[@raymondduck6492]

I had the same jean jacket. Got it second hand in the late '70s. Even got into a fight with some guy when he made fun of it. LOL. Crazy days of youth.

[@HawkqOjOp]

@@raymondduck6492I wonder if my dad found mine in his house somewhere and auctioned it off - and you ended up with mine hahaha... probably too small for ya lol.

[@andrewborofsky3723]

My first time I saw Rush was the Hemispheres tour in 1978. The Trees is always my favorite Rush song.

[@whitneyryan-ng1cq]

If only all people could be so thoughtful and gracious.

[@acason4]

Amazing interview. I went from a non Rush fan to a huge Rush fan to now more of just a fan that loves parts of their catalogue & cringe about some of their catalogue. That said, they're such great human beings & monster musicians. They released two perfect albums in "Moving Pictures" & "Permanent Waves"...

[@MT-sk1ln]

I would add Hemispheres to that list but yes, those 2 records are just incredible!

[@lisamiller9314]

And I would add 2112. Great album!!

[@thatlilsewandsew]

My top 4 are Rush, Fly By night, 2112 and Hemispheres. I like Moving Pictures, but I think musically I moved on after that, but now I am going back and appreciating the music of my younger years. I would love to see Geddy and Alex tour with Danny Carey from Tool. Danny reminds me a lot of Neil.

[@learningisfun2108]

Yup, and Subdivisions is one of my top three. I’ve been a huge Rush fan since 1981 and still cringe at some of their songs. No shame in that. They liked to experiment and any scientist will tell you that experiments often don’t work out the way you expected. But it is Rush’s constant evolution that is a major reason I love them. Some bands sound the same album after album after album and you wonder, “Aren’t they bored? Are they getting any better? Is this just a chore for them?” I never feel that way about Rush.

[@damonbennett3210]

As a lifelong fan, I can now say that "A Farewell to Kings" through "Moving Pictures" are the albums that are lights out start to finish. No duds. The earlier albums and other 80s albums are mostly ok, but there are tracks I definitely skip. The 90s and beyond lose me completely. Always respected them for constantly pushing forward though, and Neil's passing hit me harder than any musician death I can think of.

[@Mrixus]

I had to shed a tear when he talked about Neil,my brother is suffering for the same illnes rigth now and the outcome will be the same😢 Have just started to read Geddy's book

[@JF-kv1gm]

Oh, I'm so sorry to read about your brother. I hope that you have time to do lots of things together that are important to you both.

[@Mujcanal]

Sad to read It, but please treasure every moment now with your brother.

[@Mrixus]

Thanks for the nice comments regards my brother, it's over now and he have finally got to rest. Rip 😢

[@Mujcanal]

stay strong my friend@@Mrixus

[@martindesantis2830]

Many kind thoughts and prayers to you and your brother. And your family. I pray GOD is with you all in this time. Much love to you, your brother and your loved ones, from a lifelong (since 1976) RUSH fan.

[@LzCoda]

Typing this halfway through the interview.... There's so much to love about Geddy & Rush. I've seen them a bunch of times, like most on this thread. But what I really love about Geddy is his love of baseball. He has a fantastic collection of baseballs, and his knowledge of baseball stats is unbelievable! He's a real fan!

[@EliteEasyE]

Love LOVE love hope Rush play again. I'll be there with bells on!!!!

[@MichaelW.Murray]

Geddy is amazing! Rush .. my favorite band. Geddy's memoir my first audio book. He had me laughing and crying. Incredibly tio! Alex so underated. Neil I still shed tears. I met his mom in Florida while doing my laundry in Dunedin. She was a sweet woman. Love and miss the live shows. Peace Love and Music

[@markorendas1423]

Geddy is such a personable guy.. and with such enthusiasm...!

[@rodwhitfield3029]

I've watched plenty of interviews with Ged during this period and overall, this is probably the best of them, thank you!

[@MrSrw17]

Geddy is an amazing story teller. I could listen to his stories for hours 👍🏻

[@stevenmaginnis1965]

Ditto!

[@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!! 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

[@michaelconway6720]

Geddy is an amazing musician and a class act as a person. His story on how his parents met is chilling. I've seen RUSH twice. The most precise band in history. Great interview. Thank you.

[@AcidWords1]

Geddy is a guy I really look up to. First off, but not most importantly, I'm a bassist. Way more than that is how he's humble and soft spoken, but also assertive. He doesn't get angry, he doesn't yell over you, but he is going to get his point across. And you don't interrupt him, not only because of who he is, but because you're genuinely interested in what he has to say. That's not just as an observation from this interview, but something I've noticed over SO many interviews I've listened to.

[@thisislogout]

To Geddy, Alex, and Neil: I am so happy I got to see Rush perform around 2014 in California; my first time seeing them even though I had all their records. The show moved me to tears! I was playing "air bass", "air guitar", and "air drums" and felt like a part of them - that's how effin awesome they are on stage. RUSH! 🎉 💯 Percent! RIP Mr. Neil Peart!

[@jimtatro6550]

I am 4 chapters into the book and so far it’s excellent. Geddy’s awesome in every way.🤘🏻

[@PaulFormentos]

Yes, but he doesn't get into talkin bout the songs enough@JimAllen-Persona

[@tommysonnier9848]

Geddy is a really nice person. It was great to hear him speak. The loyalty and friendship between him, Alex and Neil was more like family.

[@Kazwell111]

Geddy Lee I have been following you and your band for decades, thanks for all the great music and keep on rockin!!!!

[@BillMcGuyer]

He mentioned my hometown Evansville…saw them there at Roberts Stadium several times. My favorite band!

[@MegaTubescreamer]

between the three of them, and the incredible strength in depth of pure creativity that is rush, somehow they pick you up and embrace you ,make you part of their life, without exclusion,the music is but a vehicle ,some of their stuff hits home more than others,its so reassuring to hear geddy comparing "memories" and the lack of, or interpretation of his past ,we all try to forget some events ! either by choice or deterioration, but what an effin life ! what an effin band, 😇👍👍thanks for sharing .

[@brothermaynardsbrother]

Thank you, Geddy, for making the world a better place.

[@jnatiw]

What a great interview. Thank you. Also, this interviewer is a treasure. He could teach many about how to conduct an interesting and respectful interview. Well done.

I was in Canada 1979 and in the house I was staying there was a Rush vinil álbum I like it so much, was a Discovery.

[@billywilds1779]

Geddy plays the bass, like it's 12 guitar. Just amazing. Great Band, missing Neil - RIP brother.

[@jerrytoro4739]

Rush has been a staple of my life and my kids lives for a very long time and they will and continue to be in our lives the band is really exceptionally powerful and I go back to the man time and time again when I need to really be inspired kind of on the level when I go back to staying and listen to Sting I think there's some album some artists that are universal that are part of one's life and Russian sting have been part of my life and my kids lives and now there are 36 and 37 years old yet the music remains fresh is over because rush really I wish Kelly and everybody's a very best they deserve nothing but the best because they've given the best God bless you

[@unitedstatesofmordor]

Man, blew off an evening with The Jimi Hendrix Experience to catch a gig by Hadrian. Madness! Sheer madness! Thank you for that madness.

[@georgejetson4378]

Geddy is awesome!

[@steveweilhart2359]

awesome interview - one of the greats Geddy Lee

[@FredrichLiebrich]

He's one of the most intelligent, interesting dudes ever. So interesting to learn new things from. I miss RUSH, but had a terrific run... F'N, Fantastic!!! Than for your groundbreaking MUSIC!!;🌅

[@jamesbergantino100]

Just finished the book -- so insightful to his personality and the band as a whole. So fortunate to have only missed 2 tours since Power Windows in '86 (one due to logistics, the other to stupidity). I sure hope Ged & Al find a way to play a few shows because I will be there, wherever they are.

[@ngaugefouroaksstreetstatio6932]

First saw Rush in the UK Stafford Bigley hall, we all loved them at school, remember 2112 coming out. All time favorite track "Camera eye".

[@shimwooley]

Very smart and talented man ! TY Geddy !

[@deliriomind666]

There will never be a better band than Rush! It is impossible to play better or write better songs

[@kathyguerndt2795]

So good to see you Geddy Lee . Thanks for these stories . Rush the band will always be a favorite .❤

[@edwardestes8038]

In my 65 years of life....i was blessed to see these guys in 1975 and 78.My friend saw them in Chicago at Comisky Park in about 1980 i think.He gave me about 20 pictures of Rush playing,with the score board in the background.And just one picture of Foghat's Lonesome Dave.I had three of the pictures blown up to 8 x 10s of Alex, Neil and Geddy.Neil had his black chrome Slingerlands....Geddy and Alex had their Gibson and Rickenbacher double necks.I only saw them twice....but i did see them in their youth.They even did a Beatles tune....Neil was my mentor as i played drums for years.I had a large black Big R ...Rogers double bass 8 piece kit with roto toms with 9 Paiste cymbals modeled after Neils massive kits.RIP Neil...!!!!

[@David-ng7cr]

Also first time seeing them was 75.

[@stevendiblasio3573]

Wow when Sir Paul says you should hit the road you know you are royalty! Geddy Lee you are truly a great person and of course a master of your craft! Neil will always be shining down of you and Alex. It would be great to see you play again!

[@edyoung6756]

Best interview EVER! I'm always learning things about my favorite band.

[@beachcomber4141]

Geddy is so down to earth and cool. I just listened to those 'lost demos' and WOW. I really hope Alex and him get back together and make some more music. Both are such incredible musicians.

[@ericx777]

WOW! Awesome interview/conversation! Nevermind Geddy, the greatest bass player to strap on a 4-string and hit the stage or studio... no, this was an awesome interview that showed his epic human side... man Jonathan, THANK YOU for this! You've enriched my life with the words of one of my lifelong heroes... THANK YOU!

[@MikeBrown-dk7or]

I saw Rush at the Colonial Tavern in Toronto in the very early 70s. There were just a couple of people in the audience at lunchtime munching on hamburgers and drinking beer. I had never heard of the group but as soon as they opened up and Geddy started singing you just knew they were going to be big.

[@MM-ig1iv]

One of THE best 3 piece bands to ever ef-ing bless music! And if you're a real musician.. you'll respect most of all music. and will know that Geddy was one of the best front men to ever do it. his vocal rage incredible! it's also unique which is why it stands out. damn great bass player too, multi talented, in which the whole band was! I remember my dad playing me the temple of syrinx at like 5 years old and being blown away then!? It definitely impacted my life. and Neil of course.

[@bdadolph]

I am listening now and I am not too much of a Rush fan but having grown up in Toronto when they got big it is a great memoranda of that scene. A very readable book. Geddy is a true unassuming Canadian

[@misterchippie]

My left ear loved this

[@VanirTraditionalist]

I’ve been distracted screwing with my right AirPod thinking it died haha, thanks for the comment.

[@kbmacne]

Absolutely love the book. Thanks for sharing !

[@moosewhizzerdave2066]

Enjoyed this. The Geddy-to-interviewer ratio was really good.

[@jh61]

Thanks for coming on Geddy!....great interview.

[@eltorocal]

Kansas City... 1977... my first RUSH concert. A Farewell To Kings

[@X2Ronbo]

What a great interview, Ged is so relaxed in this. Thank you for posting. Kudos to the host.