Neil Peart's Ultimate Drum Solo | Letterman

[@dpall38]

The day before this took place I was stuck in a construction zone on historic Highway 6 in Pennsylvania, the longest 2 lane highway in PA. I was stopped at the flag man and it was hotter than a five dollar pistol. I was looking at the biker stopped in the opposite direction. He was riding a decked out BMW bike. Because of the heat the rider removed his helmet and wiped the sweat from his brow. He was wearing the signature Neil Peart African hat. I said to myself look at this Neil wannabe. As I proceeded past him and got a closer look I was certain it was him. All I could do was nod and smile in what had to be total amazement . He, seeing me in disbelief, made eye contact and nodded. The next evening I saw him on letterman and figured he was riding his bike to the show in New York City. RIP Neil.

[@007stopjockin]

WOW! That is one cool AF story! I was just on a route 6 trip in July. Fun times! I loved Rush growing up. Had the double bass Tama set in the basement, doing the whole basement/garage band thing LOL. Practicing with the headphones on trying to deconstruct Neil's fills the best I could. RIP Mr. Peart. 007

[@mostamused2797]

Wonderful story. Thanks for sharing!

[@mrcapitalist2285]

Neil was an atheist, so he's not in Heaven!

[@dpall38]

@@mrcapitalist2285 Poetic license then.

[@ROOKTABULA]

Neil like me, realized _heaven_ is a fiction so I assure you, sadly, he's not anywhere.

[@rorshakks]

He deserved to be the finale, he deserved to have his last name pronounced correctly and he deserved to be on the great Letterman show.

[@FP194]

That is how you pronounce his name 🙄

[@rorshakks]

I know; that's why I said it. The two other points were positive and since the name comment is part of the whole, it's also to be understood as positive.@@FP194

[@gmancolo]

Letterman was not great.

[@Segura-x4k]

Yes he does. But this is not virtuoso level & Rush weren’t a virtuoso band. Think Ginger Baker. Buddy Rich They were virtuosos in virtuoso bands. Santana’s kit drummer was and is in another league as well.

[@rorshakks]

@@Segura-x4k I beg to differ. Look up the definition of virtuoso.

[@Philsy1971]

I saw Rush multiple times in three different provinces. Amazing each time. Neil made me and the rest of Canada proud.

[@shade421]

I would be as well

[@Popwarner-x1w]

I never got a chance to see them. But Neil Peart was the reason why I started playing drums.

[@aelechko]

I played shows with you Phil back in the mid 2000s haha crazy

[@Philsy1971]

@@aelechko nope, not me.

[@aelechko]

@@Philsy1971 my bad fella, have a great day.

[@tommyt1971]

I’ve seen Neil and Rush perform 3 times live, all in the 90s. His solos weren’t just solos, they were concerts within a concert. And all 3 shows were incredible.

[@jonrhythm3686]

100%

[@fluff1353]

Just to show you that his reputation isn't just a recent phenomenon, I saw Rush three times as well...in the Seventies. I was in the lobby waiting for the doors to open. Talked with a guy from out of town, here to see the show. He was a drummer. He told me he wasn't a fan of Rush's music. But he bought a ticket so he could see Neil's drum solo.

[@mostamused2797]

Thank you, "Letterman" for putting this up. Wonderful to be able to see this again. This vid helps explain why so many professional drummers pay honor to Neil and credit him with the inspiration to become drummers themselves. What a RUSH!

[@stevecullison894]

Still would have been nice if David Letterman had researched enough to pronounce his name right Neil "Pierce" Peart..

[@richardparlier3283]

The pronunciation is correct!!! Thanks Dave for finally getting it right!!!🎉 ❤ you both!!! Rip ❤❤❤❤❤❤ ✌

[@roballen6449]

​ @stevecullison894 Dave had it right.

[@eddyvideostar]

@@stevecullison894: Dear Steve: I agree, but it's ironic; though, his name should be easily pronounceable being on his Letterman's artist roster and Rush's album cover.

[@stevecullison894]

I have an idea for those that buy into the pronunciation change how about start correcting folks on how we've all had it wrong for the last 50 years... 😂

[@Sam-qv5pv]

He was not only a great drummer and lyricist he was a writer and phenomenon .

[@bendalton5221]

and story teller, and free thinker, and explorer and adventurer - if you haven't read his book "Ghost Rider" stop what you are doing and get a copy

[@Maria-l9j3u]

Quel plaisir d'écouter ce solo

[@derniederrheiner4518]

@@bendalton5221 I first got to know him through this book. And only then as a drummer. Good man.

[@bendalton5221]

@@derniederrheiner4518 did you ever get to see him in concert?

[@dawnhasbroken6304]

THE writer. Both feet ruined by arthritis. He LOVED his bike.

[@TheBeiderbecke]

RIP professor. I've been into you since the age of 11. You are the vessel that got me into so many aspects of music and philosophy.

[@Popwarner-x1w]

Have you seen his Tutorial. It was originally on VHS. Pretty informative

[@jman4531]

It's also amazing that the Professor still would take lessons from others

[@abinashmishra329]

If Neil was a professor, where did he teach? Does Canada have any famous music universities like Juilliard or Berklee in the USA?

[@thewatcher5271]

Not Only One Of The Greatest Drummers But Also One Of The Greatest Lyricists! Thank You.

[@jcjammer8972]

Can’t take your eyes off him when you see Rush live. Profoundly missed. 😢

[@jamescooley7849]

Saw him live also, none better!

[@raytrujillo6791]

😅greatest drummer of all time😊

[@eddyvideostar]

​@SPEEDYNEWS1: From the old school. Carl Palmer, Mason, White, and -- believe it or not -- Phil Collins! He has the most mindboggling, interesting career in the industry: from the "back seat" percussionist for the up-and-coming Genesis -- to -- *just himself* -- packing stadiums and rocketing to the top of the pop music Billboard charts.

[@eddyvideostar]

@SPEEDYNEWS1: ​From the old school: Carl Palmer, Mason, White, and -- believe it or not -- Phil Collins! He has the most mindboggling, interesting career in the industry: from the "back seat" percussionist for the up-and-coming Genesis -- to -- *just himself* -- packing stadiums and rocketing to the top of the pop music Billboard charts.

[@thebob01]

Indeed. I'm glad I had the pleasure of watching him and RUSH perform many times. Hew is definitely missed. R.I.P. Professor.

[@user-mw3mb2uv8n]

As long as there are videos, The Professor is still teaching the class.

[@gm9162]

Neil Peart was one the greatest drummers ever. Unbelievable talent.

[@drb739]

Not ONE OF, but THE greatest to do it🧐

[@supertrucker99]

Espariandio...go see

[@pundemi]

@@supertrucker99 estepario is nothing compared to them and never forget John Bonham

[@daveo226]

Legend 👍

[@Septicshites]

imo hes is #1 and nick menza is #2

[@darrylstaflund3431]

I've seen this performance a number of times and never tire of how the drums are alive in this video -- rocking and swaying in concert with Neil. I never seen it in his other solo performances. It's a real treat to watch.

[@AaronRaynerKASR]

I legit get teary eyed watching his amazing live performances - feeling comradery knowing how many other people's lives this man has touched.

[@eddyvideostar]

Arron: This is true: Great drummer.

[@pieyedapple]

There will never be another Professor like this one...R.I.P., Neil....

[@theflyingscotsman9902]

😂😂😂😂

[@danieldagenais7945]

Wrote almost every Rush song himself

[@BUNKERJR53]

Rest in Peace Neil. Your were the greatest rock drummer to walk the face of the earth. Now you are still playing from above. You will never be forgotten and are truly missed.

[@justchillin6599]

THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!

[@michaelmartinez3674]

I saw Rush for the last time during their Test For Echo tour and that was the first time I had seen Neil's drum set RISE UP and rotate while he was playing at the same time. The crowd became louder as a result. That in itself had impressed my then girlfriend to become a Rush fan "for life."

[@Steno316]

Bonham still gets the nod over him imo

[@mapexzildjian6361]

He's in the top 20, of great drummers. but there is no such thing as the best. Just different styles, ideas and abilities.

[@drb739]

​@@Steno316john is number 3 after carey of tool...

[@jeffknott2771]

A true legend. Sorely missed.

[@weeniehutjunior]

So great to see the Professor in his drums again. I miss him.....toward the end my vision was blurred from tears. RIP Neil. 😭

[@glennvogt1194]

I think we all miss him.

[@thebob01]

It's still hard to believe that he's no longer with us, but his music will live on forever.

[@maeganbyerley]

I always loved how Neil would end his solos with the jazzy stuff. R.I.P Neil you're definitely never forgotten in my house.

[@swish6282]

NOT EVEN MY HOUSE TKS

[@StephenBuedell]

He's for sure missed in my house. we love him and jam to him and Rush regularly. Thanks .

[@chrissheahon2982]

I was in the audience that fateful evening and got to go for a ride in Neil's time machine!! I've just arrived in present day to leave this KZbin comment. 10+ years have passed since this performance but for me it was a mere blink of the eyes. Truly a magnificent technology, well done Professor, well done indeed. 👏 👏 👏

[@bored1ca]

He truly is one of the greatest rock drummers of all time. I am so glad this finally got posted as I have wanted to see this again ever since I first seen this episode so many years ago. RIP Neil Peart.

[@yellownote8977]

I've been playing drums since I was 7. I'M 15 now, and I'm still working my way up. This man gives me motivation to keep going 💪🏽

[@marksienicki1253]

Get 'em dog! Chase your dream.

[@frozerekmeyata4091]

It's a lot of practice and hard work, and as you can tell Peart put in a LOT of work, this type of stuff just doesn't come overnight, but don't give up, someday you could be in a major band.

[@crew-dog2668]

Keep your dreams alive! Go get um tiger!

[@trepaning]

I have been playing drums since I was 11 and I am 55, it never gets boring.

[@charlie-obrien]

Nobody works harder in a band than the player, who's hitting those skins. I know because I play bass and guitar that without that elemental driving beat, 90% of songs go nowhere. Whatever you do in life, give it your all and work so hard at it, that you make it look easy.

[@GeorgeCilley]

The pinnacle of Drum Solo Week.

[@fablenewsnetwork7223]

Absolutely 🥁🥁🥁

[@b.p.879]

You guys should broaden your horizons and checkout Billy Cobham's solos. This stuff that Peart did in his later years is the most basic and easiest to copy. Peart really shines in the earlier Rush albums, and these solos he does are just not that impressive to me compared to the songs he plays on with Rush.

[@thomassanchez8956]

Where was Carl Palmer

[@mikepants35]

Let's not....Rush to judgment. Alright, bye.

[@thomassanchez8956]

Have u ever seen a Carl Palmer solo🤔

[@brianeisner492]

Never be another one like him. Was privileged to see Rush 5 times. RIP Neil.

[@jlzimmerman75]

4 times for me, about 30 times too few.

[@markdaniels7174]

15 times for me. About 85 too few.

[@tab89]

Letterman, one of the few dudes who took the time to learn how to pronounce his last name correctly!

[@stevelennox8575]

Almost as bad as labelling the Professor as a "drummer"

[@nupreznz]

Happy letterman showed me the right way. Feel the same way about Björk (pronounced Byerk), or Maya Angelou (Angeloh). People always confused my name as Jamal even tho it's spelled Jamil. Some would still call me Jamal after reading the way mine is spelled.

[@c.a.t.732]

@@nupreznz My first name is Craig, and I have friends I've known thirty years who still call me Greg.

[@susankay497]

@@c.a.t.732 🤣

[@patrickherron1968]

This guy guided me through childhood. I wasn't the only one. Sorely missed.

[@FreeBrainChannel]

I am one of those, bro!.. I ve' written before in other YT posts...His lyrics open my mind and I am so grateful for that! It's like the teachings from his lyrics where my father figure...

[@razak4494]

The Professor Of Percussion. God bless you Neil Peart. One of the best drummers of all time. RUSH is one of the greatest bands of all time.

[@markdawsonziglar9436]

I’m always so profoundly glad that I was able to see this man live. A true poet. R.I.P. Neil.

[@fdrstan]

All the greatest drummers I’ve ever met worship this man. Easy to see why.

[@saraphinn]

How the hell can you make it look effortless and hard at the same time. I was privileged to see him in concert 3 times. The artistry is insane. He is truly a Master of his instrument.

[@jelt110]

Never been a drum solo fan, but being able to see and hear Neil alone is pretty awesome.

[@Rael64]

He and Carl Palmer. And if you've never seen Palmer and he's in your area, see him (touring in his 70s! go, man, go!).

[@dme1016]

Drum solos are great, but not when this many are used. It's too much. 4 toms, bass, snare, high-hat, & 3 cymbals...and a good drummer, make for better....more organic, solos. All this stuff is just too much.

[@Blazzinn29]

@@dme1016a better drummer? Do you know who Peart is lol?

[@dme1016]

@@Blazzinn29 It doesn't matter. I wasn't comparing drummers in my statement. You obviously don't get my drift....

[@ludicrous7044]

@@dme1016 SEEN MORE!’🥁🥁😏😎

[@russk1971]

Few musicians ever reach this level of of proficiency and fame at the same time. The great band in heaven is being filled with them. We only get a short time to appreciate their talent. God bless his family and friends.

[@66pac57]

I did cry when he departed this Earth, I will remember all the times I got to see Rush live RIP Neil

[@michaelpayson3687]

The greatest drummer/percussionist ever. The GOAT!

[@krenwregget7667]

arguably the most influential drummer in the history of music. RIP.

[@ariescustom]

*laughs in bonham*

[@vanplq8841]

John Bonham is the most influential. Peart was influenced by Bonham

[@Newworldman66]

@@vanplq8841 Peart was a big fan of The Who, so far more likely that he was influenced by Keith Moon. Peart has far exceeded Bonham in the influential stakes.

[@vanplq8841]

@@Newworldman66 only in his dreams

[@RV-ik2gy]

​@@ariescustomyou spelled ginger Baker wrong

[@jamesfleming9714]

Neil was not "one of the greatest", he WAS the greatest. I truly miss his lyrics and the amazing energy he brought to every Rush show I attended.

[@nicolast.davinci1561]

@Mick Burns apparently, you did not watch the entire video. Peart can really swing 3:40.

[@bp6837]

No he wasnt

[@Dan_is_a_liar]

Sorry but no, not even close.

[@MaRINoL]

Daney Carey is better. You are wrong.

[@bp6837]

Matt sorum is better

[@pleasantvalleypickerca7681]

So precise and yet so full of emotion! "The Professor" was a true master. R.I.P. Neil.

[@JP_IN_TX]

I wasn't fortunate enough to have attended a RUSH concert, but Neil's absolutely incredible. Amazing.

[@229BlackHat]

Cant have a segment called Drum Solo Week without him. RIP Professor

[@paulquaife7974]

And you also can't have him come on anywhere but last, who would want to follow that!

[@229BlackHat]

@@paulquaife7974 exaaaactly

[@frozerekmeyata4091]

Greatest drummer of ALL time, a true legend that will transcend time. Thanks to Letterman for putting this out here.

[@edwardestes8038]

I have about 30 real pictures of Rush playing at Comisky Park (White Sox) in Chicago in 1982.Foghat was also there that Saturday.I had 3 pictures blown up to 8 x 10s and nEil was sporting his Mullet and mustache look .Playing his Slingerland double kick black kit.Also Geddy and Alex sporting their double neck S G and Rickenbacher guitars.They greet me every time i enter my mud room in my home.I was lucky to see them a few times in my 64 years on this earth. RIP Neil

[@senokuncoro7974]

Neil Peart was always amazing when playing live not to mention that is a full 360 degrees drum set and he plays it all without leaving a single thing

[@douglascarducci6977]

After growing up and being influenced both musically and personally by Neil , Alex and Geddy's approach to life and the musical sciences ...Neil is such a loss to the world in so many ways and this is bitter sweet to watch...I've seen them at least 9 times and was blown away each and every time and was amazed that each time they were better than the time previously...a true progressive group they were in every was R.i.p Mr Peart

[@Sparky-Mark-uk]

Best drummer ever, full stop!! Not only that, his song writing was outstanding,poetry really. Sorely missed. RIP.

[@colomrok]

my Idol! it still hurts as if it were yesterday! R.I.P. Neil Peart! greatly missed!

[@1965deebee]

The absolute master of the DRUM KIT… I was privileged to have been witness to this man playing live on many occasions with his band mates…..RUSH…. SIMPLY…………THE BEST.👍

[@stevesmodelbuilds5473]

Peart was not only a brilliant drummer, he was the principal lyricist for RUSH. An extraordinary talent, who grew up in St. Catharines, near Toronto. And he got good and jazzy for this gig. I would have loved to have seen him play with Kruppa and Rich.

[@johnnygoodman2003]

Neil Peart is from St Catherine's, not Toronto

[@hobbygirl68]

⁠@@johnnygoodman2003 St CathArines

[@stephenreese9841]

I cannot say how I miss this man, not only for is perfectionism, drive, lyrics, his atone for "family".... he had went through more than most of could imagine.... he was a genius, even took tutorlage from perhaps formal greats.... I've seen this so many times and still amazed... Thank you David.... and yes I've seen them live on the Signals tour...(Analog Kid is a personal fav)

[@franvarga709]

Rest in peace, Neil. You brought us so much joy with your poetic lyrics and pulsing beats. A true Rock god.

[@jamesgang6206]

Saw Rush in 1983 touring for Signals. Was a drummer in a band myself at that time. I was,& still am amazed just how spot on this band was live. Those 3 guys put out a lot of sound & dead accurate, too. Sonically, sound wise. Best band I ever saw. Peart blew my mind. He wasn't just a drummer. He was a percussionist. 3 really great musicians.

[@aldersmoke1]

Paul yelling "Yeah!" when he's introduced says it all. Didn't see that happen often (if ever) with musical guests. When it comes to Neil, and Rush in general, either you know or you don't. RIP to the Professor; this was incredible to watch and made me miss him all over again.

[@rayopeongo]

Watching this, I was reminded of something that happened at one of my daughter's dance recitals. They had a guest come on stage and do a tap dance routine. Halfway through, after a particularly fast and complicated bit, people started to clap, and he shushed them. I don't remember exactly what he said, but it was something along the lines of "I'm working hard here, don't drown me out." I remember that statement whenever I watch a live music performance, like this drum solo. I always save my applause, screams, cheers, whatever, until the last echoes fade away. I don't want to miss a single note of a meticulously crafted performance performed by an incredible talent.

[@dgu4644]

I saw Rush live maybe a dozen times. I've watched his solos on video from tours back decades. I've watched this one at least 10 times. I'd never noticed him count himself in before the finale before now. The Professor was a genius.

[@bbcala9719]

So glad I got to see RUSH multiple times. These great memories will live forever. Shout out to the Cedar Crest Crew.

[@richardmountz3865]

As a RUSH fan since 74 I hadn't seen this before. So thank you Professor for playing this for us from beyond the grave.. Cause that's how damn good he is...

[@uncletaylorswildride]

It's like watching a musical Mona Lisa whenever I see Neil play, miss him!

[@barrywright1311]

This man got me into drumming! First time I heard of him was the hold your fire album and been the biggest fan of rush ever since! God rest your soul sir

[@thebob01]

My all time favorite drummer. R.I.P. Professor. You are missed

[@czarneckims]

In the presence of greatness - a talent that is solely missed and NEVER forgotten. We MISS you Neil...

[@francisburns2936]

There’ll never be another like him best drummer ever god bless.

[@DaveBuildsThings]

At 65 today, I watched Rush 47 years ago in Ontario Canada long before they became the band they did. Playing small gigs like in a small town called Port Dover on the shore of Lake Erie with Max Webster and at a High School auditorium in Brantford Ontario. Loved them then and still do today. IMHO, Rush is the best band of musicians to ever grace our ears. 🎼 ❤ 👍👍

[@Mimikins]

Not only was he one of the most amazing drummers of all time, he had a heart of gold and would do anything for his fans. Even play a show when he had a horrible foot infection.

[@SirensC3]

A man that influenced my life. Played the drums for 20+ years and always looked to him for inspiration. Sorely missed Neil. Sorely missed.

[@kellyford8832]

SO sad i never got a chance to see these guys live😢, it would have been one of THOSE experiences that ya NEVER forget!!

[@charlenemack7040]

This is one of my top favorite videos. Thank you the late great Neil Peart 😇🫶🙏💟

[@captainobvious9188]

His drumming always sounded so precise to me, but yet, definitely infused with human soul.

[@olivertoeknuckleiii2093]

Somehow Neil was able to introduce amazingly complex drumming into the Rush music, without ever sounding like he was being pretentious, and everything he did always seemed to ‘fit’ perfectly! He took us on long detours, but somehow always brought us back to the ‘ main road’ in time for the ‘main course’ of the song. He created musicality in the drumming world, to a level that as of today, NOBODY has been able to reproduce. .

[@darrinrice367]

Sometime in the wake of "Grace Under Pressure" Neil talks about recognizing that his timekeeping was becoming TOO precise; to the point of growing coldly mechanistic and devoid of soul. So he did what most any musician would say is almost impossible: he completely rearchitected his style of drumming nearly from the ground up incorporating far more diverse elements from jazz, and big band players, and from others, to infuse whole new dimensions of life and feeling into his work. If nothing else, THAT stands as a monumental testament to his unimpeachable prowess on the cans, and clinches -- probably forevermore -- his claim to the title "The Professor."

[@AndI0td763]

@@darrinrice367 Excellent point. And this is another reason why Peart was unmatched. He took his playing to the next level, which considering where he started from it’s unprecedented.

[@mattiebigtime]

That statement is how drummers describe great drummers. Perfectly put!

[@michaelplantarich3375]

Best drummer ever. His precision was unmatched

[@theflyingscotsman9902]

😂🤣😂🤣 Waiting for him to pick up the tempo 🤔

[@michaelmyers3892]

There were very very few men that had this kind of talent on the drum set and very few have ever had a layout like that there will never be another one may he rest in peace

[@timothydukeman7619]

How do I say 'Rest In Peace' to a drummer? Miss you Neil (and RUSH!) so much!

[@mustang3931962]

Me and you both😢

[@Wolfie66]

Not only an incredible drummer but also a brilliant man. RIP Neil.

[@paulochf]

I started to read about music theory and playing because of him. It's been a fun ride for 22 years and counting.

[@j.b.macadam6516]

I had the privilege of seeing Neil Peart and Rush twice in the 80's. Never saw a greater drummer!

[@jaymartell2967]

Agree,3 concerts for me

[@jamesatkinson7294]

The Man, The Myth, The Legend : Simply put there is no one better. RIP

[@joeyank2451]

There Are A Few Great Drummers And He Definitely Was One Of Them.

[@GordonWilliams-ur7kq]

WITHOUT A DOUBT THE GREATEST DRUMMER OF ALL TIME. WATCH IN AWE. I HAD THE PRIVELIGE OF SEEING RUSH 11 TIMES AND THEY NEVER FAULTERD CONSUMATE PROFESSIONALS

[@keithwood6459]

Neil was an exceptionally great drummer, really one of a kind. Saw Rush three times in the 80s and he was incredible. Fantastic solo here, and in all the concerts, but I really thought that he was better with the band. His precision, creative fills, diversity, power, perfection, all suited the music so well and added so much to their songs. His solos are great - not taking away from him, but he was at his best when he was adding, one might even say completing, the music of the band.

[@sozzle600]

A Neil peart solo is a song in itself not just a display of speed. Beautiful

[@paulgero]

That last jazz set was incredible as is everything he does!! RIP to the greatest.

[@TimTheMusicMan]

There are certain things man (and women) can do in that you are so amazed you sit in place, mesmerized, accepting that this cannot be duplicated, you sit quietly and just wonder how is this possible, you don't speak, you don't question, when it is over you just move on and realize there is a higher order that plants certain things in certain people.

[@andrewwalker5974]

Thanks for everthing Neil. RIP the Professor.

[@jonroux9291]

I was lucky enough to see RUSH live three times. And all three times I left the show amazed and smiling. What an incredible trio, and in my humble opinion, Neil Peart was the greatest drummer ever. It's sad to know that he's gone and that RUSH no longer exists. RIP Professor.

[@markusantonio4866]

I only saw them twice. The last concert was Snakes and Arrows, and when they were done for sure. I ran to my truck as fast as I could, because I didn’t want to be waiting for a long time to get out of the amphitheater. I had so much adrenaline from that concert. Great band!

[@robertkroberjr.157]

I saw the Moving Pictures tour in Pittsburgh PA! Direct center, as far as you could get! I could touch the ceiling with my hands! Awesome show! RIP Neil!

[@gongqi67]

Funny, I had the exact same seats in Houston for that tour.

[@robertkroberjr.157]

@@gongqi67 Nice! 😎✌️

[@torybrown7730]

I was happy to see Rush 4 times before Neil passed. In my humble opinion NOBODY is better than Neil. He not only is a true rock ICON but is a ROCK GOD. RIP Neil. You are truly missed. ❤

[@guillaumebillette4078]

His timing is impeccable! His ability with that timing is irreproachable! I could practice for a thousand years and not be that good!

[@theflyingscotsman9902]

Take the blinders off and see some real skill ! Watch Buddy Rich and you'll think 100% differently !

[@flashy5150]

He was so talented and I’m proud to say that he grew up within a few miles from me. God bless his soul, he and RUSH will never be forgotten. RIP Neil, with the family that you lost.

[@richardcormier2865]

All I can say is it was a pleasure to listen to him live

[@rodmandealerman3297]

Neil Peart. The one, and ONLY Professor. God chose wisely for us all. Neil lives even now, and ALWAYS will. When my time is up, I hope see and hear him again, jamming with all my heroes Upstairs.

[@corey6393]

Drum week was a wonderful time. Harrison, Copeland, Chambers, Peart, Sheila E. Anton Fig, etc.

[@toddsharp4245]

I was lucky enough to see the Moving Pictures tour in San Diego in 82. When he did his solo for YYZ, he literally went for almost 10 min! Most amazing thing I’ve ever seen at a concert.

[@darrinrice367]

I went to see Rush on this very "Time Machine" tour and saw this solo performed live. There'll never be the like, again.

[@toddsharp4245]

@@darrinrice367 NEVER!

[@fabiodias5527]

Forever the greatest of all time - RIP Neil. It's been 4 years without you. All drummers around the world miss you.

[@Nhamp2000]

I am not a Rush fan at all, but man, mad respect for Neil. One of the GOATs.

[@DeadDad1]

As a fellow drummer I have always admired and respected Niel. Gone from this earth far to soon! RIP!

[@snuugumz]

I have been a Rush fan since i first heard 2112. Best thing about them was this man and the fact that, not only did his drumkit have all that equipment, he actually used ALL of it. Unlike a lot of other drummers back inna day. Saw them on the HEMISPHERES tour.

[@bluespectralmonkey]

so jealous !!!! hemispheres is an album i have heard more than most i’d say 300+ listens and it never ever gets old. unlike us ;)

[@scottsirkis4531]

I am thankful to say I have seen Neil several times and in my opinion he was the best bar none. I miss him dearly.

[@boarhog1979]

This is why they called him the Professor. He studied and learned all throughout his career, still taking lessons if you can imagine he needed lessons

[@ssfc2012]

I actually heard it was because of the way his face looked like the professor from gilligan's island. It was an inside joke with the band

[@NoUnknown-y5p]

Who could possibly give this man lessons????😂

[@boarhog1979]

@@NoUnknown-y5p Freddie Gruber and Peter Erskine

[@eyetech08]

This is perhaps the BEST clip yet!! Thank you ,"Letterman"!!!

[@nnickols]

Neil, of Rush He made no fuss He got right down to business Center stage No blank page He rocked it right with Isthmus. Lyrical genius Made us all think That life so much more Than what was done With his pounding drums Alone, he performs a score

[@adamread2425]

Just one of many examples of why Neil Peart was the greatest drummer to ever live. Maybe one could argue that, but nobody can argue that he was the greatest drummer of his generation. From 1975 to now, nobody can even hope to be in the same conversation. He's so far beyond legendary that it's impossible to accurately describe his transcendence.

[@GreenfaceONE]

My favorite drummer of all time. I also miss having Letterman on TV. All the shows today are unwatchable. You are missed as well Dave!!

[@mikecoughlin4128]

Letterman has a series of interviews called “needs no further introduction” or similar. Granted half the people he interviews in this series I have no interest in. The others are a good watch.

[@GreenfaceONE]

@@mikecoughlin4128 I'll check that out. Thanks!

[@Hooklineandsinker145]

The most incredible of all time. Period. RIP, Neil. I hope you’re bangin on those drums for the angels

[@bigpawrescuetrapping5331]

The thing about Neil that made him a standout was simply that everyone knew who he was and how good he was. Most popular drummer among rock guitarists? Neil. Most popular among bass players, singers, keyboardists? Neil. Most popular among air drummers? Neil. Most popular among non-musicians? Neil. Most popular among musicians of considerable advanced aptitude? Neil. Hands down, he is the most common household name and it's not even close until you get into the Buddy Rich category. The only phenomenal drummer in the world? No. But by far the most revered by every categorical standard. Rip, Professor. You were incredible. You taught us all.

[@TheTotallyRealXiJinping]

It’s all of that and his ability to not evolve his drumming not once, not twice, not three times, not four but five different times in his life. A pure virtuoso

[@glendahill]

finally, someone worthy on your show. RIP, NP, you were the best