Alex Lifeson Talks Rush’s “Limelight”and Teaches Its Haunting, Legendary Solo | Shred with Shifty

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On the first episode of the new podcast series Shred With Shifty, which features host and Foo Fighters guitarist Chris Shiflett getting a front-row lesson from our favorite guitar heroes, Shiflett learns the solo from Rush’s “Limelight” with a little help from the man who wrote it, Alex Lifeson. According to Shiflett, Lifeson’s lead on the song “does exactly what a great solo should do. It’s a scene change, it’s kind of emotional, it builds, and yes, it shreds.”
Shiflett recalls that in context, both “Limelight” and Moving Pictures, the 1981 Rush record that featured the track, were stylistic and structural departures from the rock ‘n’ roll fare of the day. Compared to Aerosmith, Black Sabbath, and KISS, the Canadian prog-rock trio was practically avant-garde.
Lifeson joins Shiflett from a meticulously maintained studio den he built in his apartment (“I’m a Virgo,” Lifeson admits), and talks about early influences like Allan Holdsworth, Jeff Beck, and Andy Summers. The first solo he learned was from Cream’s “Spoonful,” but even after Rush’s international success, he says he never felt confident in his ability. “I’ve always been a little bit insecure about my playing,” he says. “I always felt like I could be better than I was.” And despite Rush’s infamously complex arrangements and each member’s dazzling technicality, Lifeson remembers that there were occasionally some “trainwrecks” onstage. “With our music, if you got lost, boy, it was hard to get back,” he grins.
While memories of the “Limelight” sessions are imperfect (“That was 43 years ago. I can’t remember things from 40 minutes ago,” Lifeson quips), the guitarist recalls using a modded Stratocaster with a vibrato arm to record the song’s solo in five or six takes, which bassist and vocalist Geddy Lee and producer Terry Brown then comped into the final version. The idea was to create a solo that reflected the isolation and fragility of “living in the limelight.” “I really wanted to echo that feeling and that sense of loneliness,” he says.
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[@jeffk144]

This will just get buried in 2k comments but here's a story of the awesome guy Alex is. It was '77/'78 and my girlfriend's younger brother had cancer and was really having a hard time. I had given him 2112 because it was my favorite record at the time and Philip really loved it, became a huge Rush fan, all the while going through cancer treatment and a rough life. But he could put on his headphones and rock out to 2112. Well, I wrote to Alex about Philip and just asked if he could send a signed picture or something encouraging. I didn't figure he'd ever read my letter... Rush was on the rise then with lots of fans. Not long after that Philip got a HAND WRITTEN LETTER from Alex, a few pages long written on a plane ride to England where they were going to record their next record. It must have been Hemispheres I guess. Alex even mentioned that there was a classical guitar part in one of the songs that was hard for him. The Trees! I mean, this was like a 25 (ish?) year old rock star and he wrote an actual letter, not just "Hey Philip, hang in there!" kind of thing with a stock photo sent by his publicist. What an amazing gesture of kindness and humanity. Philip lost his leg and not long afterwards passed away but that letter from Alex was the highlight of the difficult time he had at the end of his life. I will always love Alex for that. And the button asked about at the end was definitely Eraserhead. I remember it very clearly.

[@216trixie]

That's a beautiful story Thanks.

[@dannysunay4386]

VERY, VERY, COOL STORY!❤

[@thesjkexperience]

I want to retire in Canada 🥳🤗

[@18Crowie]

What an amazing story - such a lovely guy...

[@Cris_Borgnine]

@jeffk144…Such A great story thank you for sharing! Having someone in my family who was well known I know and have seen how much those letters mean. Alex is a great guy so down to earth. Rest in Peace Philip🙏

[@LLeao2112]

Alex is so humble that some people forget what a genius he is.

[@Rski1234]

Spot on!

[@craig.encinitas]

“You’re no genius…” Don’t be Rash 😂

[@GEDDY37]

I dont

[@peterbondmusic]

Absolute genius

[@mudwiser1391]

and funny he is.

[@billf8217]

He's like Gandalf coming down from a smoking mountain to sit and have a nice cup of tea with the kids and tell stories. What a wonderful man and incredible, soulful guitarrist.

[@ricknelson5493]

for ALEX to reference Alin Lee. volumes

[@LovinMusic1965]

Yep, yes to these comments. 😂

[@neilatkinson3974]

Ya, good one, I can just see that.

[@TubeScrewed]

Alex, and Geddy, are both too modest in person.

[@thehiphypnochick]

Proud female fan since 1980!! My best memory ever was getting an extension cord and bringing my record player into the backyard of my childhood home to be on my swing-set and listening to Xanadu - I felt the Finger of God touch my heart and I cried tears of joy...it was my church and I will never forget that moment 💖 Thank you Alex, Geddy and Neil!!!

[@Chief-Walleye]

i am an avalanche survivor and have always loved Xanadu, since even before the avalanche. The 5-minute intro is very much analagous to my avalanche experience, there being the 3 core "movements" in the intro, which actually literally correspond to different sequences in the event that fateful morning when my best friend (who interestingly introduced me to Rush) died in a crevasse. But I feel much the same as you...it touched my heart from the beginning and will never let go. Many times it has brought me to tears, reliving my own experience on the mountain. the ethereal and majestic melodies met with crashing, wrenching realities. Well, enough with my life story for now! Best wishes and to your and to the hip hypnosis trade! :)

[@thehiphypnochick]

@@Chief-Walleye Wow! What an incredible story...I'm truly sorry for the loss of your friend...glad you survived and lived to tell the tale ~ God speed, my friend 🙏

[@bepitan]

stunning and brave ..

[@thecrowing1989]

What an awesome memory, thank you for sharing! This is really coincidental but I am making my way through Rush's discography for the first time ever and an on A Farewell to Kings, and Xanadu is the next track up! I have never listened to it before but I am at a loss for words with the other Rush songs I've heard (I am actually working my way backwards, so far I've listened to Moving Pictures, Permanent Waves, and Hemisphered, and each record blew my mind).

[@guaporeturns9472]

@@thecrowing1989What did you think? I am an avid Rush fan.. imho the best band in the history of earth , and Xanadu is probably my favorite song ever.. well there are about 40 Rush songs tied for a close second place but Xanadu takes me on a journey every time. Also I love Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Rush is the soundtrack of my life , and an inseparable part of my DNA

[@MilfordHaven-z2c]

I just can't wrap my head around the fact that somebody so famous is so generous and humble......I'm still trying.

[@roppypeck8934]

I met Alex once in a supermarket. I saw him standing by the service desk. I looked at him and said," I think that's Alex Lifeson. "Nobody there recognized him. I got up my nerve and walked over. Then said, " your not Alex Lifeson are you? " He said, " Nooo"...and I started to walk away. He started laughing and said " I am. I am. He's so funny and so gracious. He stood there talking to me and I saw him again they next day. Such a nice guy.

[@roppypeck8934]

The next day. He signed my pay check stub. I told him I'd been trying to figure out his chord structures for years. Of course he cracked a joke. He said, " I've been trying to remember them. " Hilarious!

[@kamakaziozzie3038]

Alex does his own food returns? That’s really surprising to me! Since Alex is a multi-millionaire, I’d always assumed he has a team that performs his time sucking errands.

[@AnthonyAnthony-tk4ye]

@kamakaziozzie3038 That’s funny 😂😂 you would think that, but a lot of these guys are regular dudes… I have 2 guys from famous bands in my town and they might have a friend help get shit done when they’re really busy but other than that they’re just like us and blend right in lol

[@johnb4024]

​@@kamakaziozzie3038he's Canadian so you know he's grounded

[@michaelyolch79]

I'm actually teary-eyed watching this. How beautiful of a time is it when we can sit here and watch an absolute legend talk and play through something so musically and historically epic? RUSH has been an immeasurably significant soundtrack to millions of lives all around the world. Such an extraordinary legacy to make music that will be listened to until the end of time. Ahh...the power of music!!! THANK YOU!!!

[@greengrass1072]

That part from 43:16 on when Alex played the pre-solo part here was absolute chill inducing to this long time Rush fan. I actually did tear up a little as my almost 40 year fandom flashed before my eyes. What a band they were.

[@GreensnGuitars]

🎉

[@khollandtalks]

Yep! It's a very emotional solo!!

[@NoBody-bn1kr]

I can't listen to Rush anymore since Neil passed. It sucks.

[@michaelyolch79]

@@NoBody-bn1kr Neil himself would 100% want you to keep listening as a celebration and appreciation of the tens of thousands of hours he spent mastering his craft as his entire life’s work! And to celebrate the extraordinary accomplishments the 3 of them made together. CRANK UP your favorite RUSH tunes with joy and celebration! For some reason, I’m feeling like you need to CRANK UP, DIGITAL MAN! Do it!

[@magicspiral3323]

Alex’s childlike spirit has never left him, his awe and affection for the guitar is admirable.

[@madDdog67]

Paul Gilbert is the same way, it's awesome to see these giants in the biz like this.

[@marshallgeorge3819]

He's one of the most genuine musician celebrities out there. Loving life and having fun - a great human being.

[@cryptodave2619]

……I feel like we are RUSHing down….. haha he missed noticing his great pun. Come on bro!!!!

[@FPS1200]

It's so fantastic to see Alex laugh and smile again after all of the pain he's gone through.

[@jaysmith8957]

My favorite moment was when Chris brings up maybe a solo he doesn't like as much from The Analog Kid, and Alex explains to him that he was expressing teenage angst in that solo, all fury and drive with no precision, showing that Alex is putting the music and emotion and meaning first as he has done with all his solos. A true master.

[@showtime951]

This episode represents the very best of what the internet is supposed to be. Entertaining, educational, intellectual, humorous, witty, spontaneous, nostalgic, and informal. Great job, Chris! With your level of interest you might want to consider a career in music.

[@skarlottt]

He is playing with his heart.

[@terryeaster1]

Full of Internet win is this comment

[@ricknelson5493]

terrific. what the internet should be. I THANK YOU

[@LovinMusic1965]

💯 Chris is an amazing interviewer, editorial magnet. I pray he never works for a news media, and the guy could interview a dancing bear and let the bear tell us how bears dance. 😂. He could interview anyone , even non musicians. He is really a genius and he is never the "one up" musician, he seriously seems excited about everything he is doing.

[@robertcordell7445]

Yes it does.

[@sn95_mustang_garage]

"Being fragile and broken down....is the limelight." He did the solo as apart of the feeling for the title of song. Now that's friggin genius.

[@DaveLopezMixing]

I caught that as well. His solo isn't just him shredding, but tells part of the story? That's a serious commitment to songwriting. Brilliant!

[@terryconk9823]

Thought the exact same thing. That’s why we love him

[@MehYam2112]

That was amazing. And Chris’ point going into that - the key thing is how Alex’s playing bucks convention and goes somewhere different. In that part of the solo, he avoids the typical and easy pentatonic/blues 3->1. It never occurred to me that the pentatonic notes are sometimes too strong for what you’re going for.

[@johnflorian6745]

Amazing details I would've never known despite needing no audio equipment to hear that solo anytime I want using nothing but my head. When he climbs out near the end I can't help but feel an immense height attained from climbing against endless challenges and the awareness of where one fall leads. He climbs leaving you feeling uncertain, but then that ringing note just soars and I'm forever grateful for that delayed sustain.

[@iainhoward8041]

Art

[@Dex000x]

It's hard to put into words how much I love this guy.

[@billf8217]

Same. It's like listning to your favorite uncle tell you about when you were 4.

[@martymcpeak4748]

Alex seems like a sweet person for sure, but he can get mean when he has to. I remember the story about him catching an assault charge because some guy was giving his son a hard time. if I'm not mistaken it was a bouncer at a club Alex and his son was at.

[@mablood]

Wrong, it was in Naples Florida at a hotel and he and his son were assaulted by shit head cops who eventually lost their jobs. Details are mostly private but Alex has told his side of the story and I have no reason to believe it’s not completely indicative of what went down. “ I have no heart to lie…❤️”

[@jamesclark6142]

I was going to write this... ;-)

[@shallex5744]

@@martymcpeak4748 i guess we can't know exactly what happened because we weren't there and there's no footage, but from what i've heard claimed by Alex and others, it seems Alex (and possibly his son) got taken to a stairwell by the cops where nobody could see, then he got shit beat out of him, then he was tasered multiple times while lying in a pool of his own blood after they broke his nose anecdotes and claims i've heard suggest that Alex did not cause any violence, and the police were unjustified in escalating to brutality, and that the guy who called the cops misrepresented the situation to the police, which possibly helped in causing them to escalate to brutality again i don't know for sure, just something to consider there was a video on youtube that i can't seem to find anymore of him speaking to fans after being released from jail, with his shirt still bloody and everything, sadly it's either removed or i just can't find it for the life of me anymore

[@alanwilds721]

It's stuff like this that reminds us Rush may very well have been the best collective of musicians and composers ever assembled in rock music. Alex is providing a very brief glimpse into the genius and attention to every last detail that was poured into every Rush song.

[@eclark9965]

One persons best is another persons presumptuous drivel. Best? Hell no. That’s insane.

[@alanwilds721]

@@eclark9965 time to get off the meth it would appear! 🤡

[@leethomas255]

​@@eclark9965So is your comment and opinion

[@eclark9965]

@@leethomas255 my comment made sense. Yours is is nonsensical and sophomoric. But don’t worry. I have no doubt you have no innate ability to realize that Your comment was on the level of “i know you are but what am i”. Well done

[@gregorysgarrison]

Easily the best heavy progressive rock ever. Of course Rush are the only members of that particular sub-genre.

[@DavidSmith-sw5kg]

It’s absolutely heart warming to watch how humble a living legend can be. Alex Lifeson is just a regular guy too. Thank you for so much this wonderful interview.

[@johntownsend2943]

Alex never disappoints.....Down to earth, wicked sense of humour..... massively talented and passionate. Big thanks to both for getting this on for us. Good luck with the show Chris.

[@tracywilkinson1820]

so humble and approachable. Holds nothing back, no secrets, no attitude. All three were such incredible monsters. Three best lifelong friends.

[@NoLegalPlunder]

Alex is a genius. His speech at the hall of fame is indicative of his genius for spontaneously creating an emotion - just like his solos.

[@Hanzyscure]

He trolled the hall of fame and had them all perplexed.

[@billf8217]

That's exactly it. Spontaneous and very inventive and soulful.

[@i.p.knightly149]

Just watched a live version of Digital Man and Geddy's got a "blah blah blah" t-shirt, lol.

[@philduoos2961]

Yep. Instead of using notes to tell the story he used "blah".

[@billfleming3375]

omg- PLEASE have Alex on again ! This was awesome- I was completely enthralled- and I’m a drummer!? He seems so humble and cool, I love Alex and Ged so much. Thanks for posting 10/10

[@premierguitar]

thanks for watching!

[@dominicdoyle2895]

Yeah you are absolutely spot on…Alex seems like an amazing person as well as kick a$$ player. I must say though….Chris is a fantastic interviewer and seems like a very cool dude. I’m subscribing. Thank you Chris.

[@stephenslade1639]

@@dominicdoyle2895 Intelligence will out.. How many people want to listen to 80's poodle rockers talk about what they did back in the day. They may have been fast and flashy but repeating same shit over and over on speed means nowt.

[@projecthealthy9862]

Same here!

[@seanoneil277]

@@stephenslade1639 I've loved guitar music since I was a kid in the 60s. Never understood how people were impressed by/with those poodle bands. Or speed/thrash metal. It's just fake fury, empty, soulless. Maybe meth addicts identify with the hyperness that's empty.

[@joshuacall4356]

Greatest rock band ever and living legend. Alex is a class guy.

[@Pauls-World]

I’m 59 and have been to over a hundred concerts including 15 Rush shows. I have never been close to anything thrown from the stage. Never. The last show the did in Orlando and was on the 10th row and Alex threw a shirt and I got. Thanks Alex. It says “ my car goes fast”

[@TRWilley]

Love how he composes solos based on emotional states - which is why they connect so much.

[@audibletapehiss3764]

Hearing him play by himself, I suddenly realized how much he sounds like a virtuoso classical violinist. A true master.

[@caseD5150]

what? xD

[@caseD5150]

Not EVEN

[@audibletapehiss3764]

​@@caseD5150 Bro. No guitar player vibratos a note like Alex does. It's like a single drop of rain on a still lake. It blossoms outward from the point of entry with precisely increasing intensity and expression. I don't mean his guitar sounds like a violin. I mean he phrases and gives full emotion to every note, in a way I've only heard from... virtuoso classical violinists.

[@JJSurma]

"It has to be fragile and borderline breaking down...that's how you feel...that's the whole idea of being in the Limelight, ya know? And I wanted to echo that" ... amazing humanity expressed through the choices made with his instrument...absolutely brilliant!

[@davidkendall1614]

Neil’s very personal lyrics there in “Limelight”. His struggle with celebrity and public persona versus perfecting his craft. It is great how Alex and Geddy crafted the music around that. To create the “feel”.

[@davidguthrie3739]

Equally articulate with words and notes.

[@johndcoffee632]

I love that i can actually hear his strings, the dynamic range he possesses is incredible

[@manakin5]

The thing I have loved about Alex and his playing is that he is not so much that he is a very technically proficient player (which he of course is), but his composition and style of playing is so focused on sound quality and harmonic integrity. He has such an ear for melody and form, and he knows how to evoke feelings in the listeners through his choices of chords. And he knows how to lay back and be a rhythm guitarist when the situation calls for it. I just love his way of playing, and even 40 years after I started getting into this band, I still discover new things in the songs I've heard almost my whole life that I didn't notice before. That's genius playing right there, to be able to do that.

[@larryhaines7109]

By far my favorite guitarist of all time. I never EVER get tired of listening to his playing. I can't say that about any other musician. His phrasing is just so interesting and unique. So hard to replicate. Those three guys together, there was never a more perfect trio of musicians in any band.

[@Acujeremy]

Did Alex play that many different guitars live?

[@nightplay7443]

What are your thoughts on King's X?

[@seaneckert487]

This band changed my life forever, Alex Lifeson is still to this very day my favorite guitar player.

[@stratolestele7611]

Whoa! Talk about hitting a home run straight outta the gate! Alex in all his glory - and then, not only breaking it down, but that his chops are 'right there'! Just plain, love, that man. Very well done Chris! Thank you

[@yvesbajulaz]

its always amazing when the original artist plays the chords, its sounds so different, like all the little things they do, all the magic in that... you can just hear the whole band....

[@thomashorrock7221]

I always knew that was a great solo but hearing him break down the emotion it’s portraying, it became one of my all time favorites

[@LeonTodd]

An hour of pure Lerxst?! MY BODY IS READY!

[@TVoltG]

Yes!! This is a treat!

[@fullclipaudio]

One of the great things about RUSH is that their final album was just as good if not better than anything else they produced. It is rare for a band with such a long career. God bless them.

[@jsullivan2112]

Way better than Vapor Trails or Snakes and Arrows, that's for sure. Easily the best thing since Test For Echo. I never felt like they were truly back until they made that record. And then they called it quits! 😂

[@ByTorSnowDog2112]

And 'Clockwork Angels' ended with "The Garden", maybe the most perfect and poignant song from a band ever as their final studio recording. (At least by the album running order.) And it the song is even more moving after Neil's passing.

[@johnflorian6745]

I couldn't agree more. The last time I saw them live, they played "The Garden" near the end, if not last. I totally lost control over my tear ducts because somehow I sensed that was goodbye. I've never been so moved by a song in a live performance. The words resonated deeply as a fan from the very beginning and so, so many live shows. To have Alex share this time with us is a true gift.

[@MatthewMezzatesta]

This helped me realize how iconic Alex's quick whammy vibrato is. Every single time he would dive or raise the bar, I'm like damn that IS the Lifeson signature sound. It's so instantly recognizable. ❤

[@canadianroot]

It’s too bad his right hand wasn’t visible much of the time.

[@chickeee]

And he always had the tuning for the next string

[@kamakaziozzie3038]

Big vibrato- no whammys!

[@karlshuler1011]

Growing up in Toronto, it was so cool having Rush and Triumph representing us. Both Alex and Rik Emmitt are an influence on me. Alex is an amazing guy as well. Actually, both bands were so approachable if you met them. Thanks for posting this.

[@byronlemay2166]

That was absolutely fantastic. I could listen to Alex talk all day long...how often do we get a musician that has been so much a part of your life (45 years for me) on such and interesting and intimate level like this? He's awesome.

[@mvm3016]

Great interview, Chris. Like Rick Beato has been doing, these interviews are a gift to document the music and musicians that we all grew up with.. Thank you. 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼

[@tonywtyt]

I'm not a Beato geek, but I really do appreciate him for what he does for music and those that love it.

[@davetee116]

Woah, a Beato interview would be amazing.

[@jordankokocinski506]

Would love to see Rick interview Alex or Geddy!

[@kathyspears6379]

I am one of the rare females who has always loved Rush, from hearing Working Man on the radio for the first time to memorizing every word of 2112, etc. Thank you Alex for the great music and memories! I have a really funny story about A Passage to Bangkok. I didn't smoke pot and I had no idea that was what that song was about until my 50's. 😂. I just thought it was about a magical journey through exotic markets.

[@goontermg]

Maybe I'm wrong, but I felt a lot of Rick beato influence on this. Great stuff!!

[@jezzer1969]

Lifeson is such an amazing player. Such a variety of tones, but all recognisable. He can go from classical to acoustic to heavy. But then does all this amazing ambient stuff.

[@maryjoplews2219]

Such a great interview, love hearing Alex tell his stories. Female fan here since 1979, and founding member of RushCon.

[@karenjulien2249]

Cool to see you on here!

[@lapse9continuum765]

Watching Alex demo this solo is just one of the greatest things I've ever seen. A gift to guitarists everywhere!

[@smoovegittar]

Never can get enough of these dudes. A fan since '76, and miss them like crazy. Great interview. Keep shining, Al!

[@andysalter7192]

Rush have to have had the most respectful last gig in Rock History, they didn't make any fuss of it , they didn't do the whole " Final Show " promotion, in fact the only reason fans knew it maybe the last show was Neil coming out front and taking a bow. Total Class and it was perfectly Rush.

[@MegaHogzilla]

The Analog Kid and Subdivisions spoke directly to me when I was in junior high. Their songs genuinely swept me off my feet and far, far away. I was addicted instantly. Thank you, Alex, for all the music and the memories.

[@coffeemachtspass]

That makes two of us (plus a few million more out there). They don’t get talked about much, but somehow Grace Under Pressure and Signals became mine. I only hear them once every decade or so, but they immediately slam me back into Christmas morning, getting my own cassette player with stereo speakers and those two albums. Neil was writing on my soul with those lyrics.

[@MegaHogzilla]

@@coffeemachtspass Walking around town with Rush, Ozzy, Van Halen, and Yngwie on max volume through my Sony Walkman headphones was life changing. Epic sound without boom box! I was a New World Man!

[@greghassett579]

Geology field camp, that’s the album that got me through 6-weeks out in the desert and mountains of the southwest…

[@michaelmichaels9845]

Yes, that’s the magic, brother. Hanging with friends listening to albums. Maybe in your brother or sister’s room. Or daydreaming alone with the music playing.

[@skparkes1969]

Absolutely fantastic interview. Some real gems there for Rush fans and how can anyone dislike the incomparable Alex Lifeson. With all the attention Geddy and Neil get people often overlook the fact that Alex really was the key to that band. His humility, sense of humour and brilliant (not to say unique) guitar style kept the band together physically and musically. All true Rush fans recognise the band comprised 3 geniuses - each as outrageously talented as the next.

[@fordism.01]

Alex is a gentle genius. I seen them in the Birmingham NEC on the roll the bones tour . He snapped a string during a solo he threw the guitar off stage simultaneously catching the replacement plugged it in and carried on .without dropping it . Was the most professional show I ever seen by a band ever . That was just one of those moments you actually get what a genius guitarist Alex is.

[@kevinmoore8507]

I saw him break three strings in a row on the Tree's in Pensacola, Florida in 1985 (Power Windows Tour) and he appeared pissed after the second string broke but pulled off the rest of the solo, finally, on the third guitar. It was epic for the crowd, however, I am sure he didn't care much for it. He is COOL under pressure.

[@noworriesimfijian]

I was at that show too. Came over from Belgium to see that tour. Amazing performance.

[@fordism.01]

@@noworriesimfijian he did it without dropping a note. Unbelievable but true.

[@grahamnunn8998]

I read an interview with the engineer who mixed the R40 DVD. He said they had several choices of each song and there were literally no mistakes. The only problems they ever had were technical (mics or channels dropping out) so could use whichever one looked best.

[@timmetcalfe5651]

After reading the comments and understanding what his contribution to this amazing, life comforting band is, I now am so happy to realize that it takes "that" kind of person to be REALLY successful at what you do. Thank you Alex. And special prayers to Neil and his family. 2112 Forever

[@vicariousjohnson9823]

44:00 The look on his face as he plays combined with the sound makes me want to cry...an overload of memories. Thanks to you both.

[@DonnieChoppa]

Alex Lifeson is a treasure. This episode made me so happy. I enjoy hearing him chat as much as I enjoy his music. Such a kind and humble guy, and a real genius. One of my biggest influences! This episode will be hard to beat, but I'm looking forward to the others!

[@bebopcats]

The music of Rush and Alex's playing hold up really well years and decades later. The proof of that is the continued interest in Alex and Rush through interviews such as this.

[@filkollinz]

I’m a Rush fan from the earliest days and was lucky enough to be 17 and see them on the Tour of the Hemispheres in the UK back in 1979 (May 15, Bristol, Colston Hall). That gig is etched into my memory forever. I can remember skinny Alex with his long blond hair soloing through La Villa Strangiato with a beam of light from a super trouper spot light bouncing off the chrome finger plate on his guitar all around the auditorium. It was epic. This was a wonderful interview. Alex is a national treasure. 🇨🇦 Thank you for making it happen.

[@toddduncan792]

I love Alex and how he truly uses how he feels at that moment to create a solo.

[@rickstamler5931]

Alex and the band have been walking beside me for forever. Since the loss of my grandson every smile also brings a cry. Alex made me smile here. Thank you Alex

[@kevins4222]

This is AWESOME- we need to have more guitarists walk through their famous solos so we can document the CORRECT way of doing them. This is history here.

[@premierguitar]

Thank you! More episodes to come!

[@Jason-vn5xj]

I’m a 48 y/o drummer - so of course, Rush was practically a religion for me. I was so enraptured by Neil, I never gave enough thought to Alex until far too many years later. This was exquisite. It was an entire meal. For every guitar player my age who tried **so hard** to get a glimpse and see “what is he REALLY playing there?!?” in concerts and videos… this was absolutely delicious. I loved every second. If Alex is your guitar hero, I can only imagine your experience watching this. Thank you for every second. 🙏❤️

[@StokesMusicStudiosOnline]

He's my hero! I learned to play in the mid 90s by looping rush using a Sabine bactrack! You are correct sir. This is blowing my mind. Many Thanks to Alex and the creator!

[@josiek5989]

Proud to be a female Rush fan since Fly By Night! Saw them so many times, each show better than the last. And the lineup for the women's restroom was always nonexistent - so don't care that most fans are dudes! Sheer talent and humility are the best combo ever. And I'm a drummer, I loved the part about Neil's monitors - have to admit I just listen to the bass and vocals too when playing, always such a nice surprise to listen later to what the guitarist is doing! I love love love Alex's playing/ solos. They were absolute magic on stage.

[@ericpeterson7512]

Those gorgeous chords with the drone notes! To me that is the distilled essence of longing. He just plays one chord like that and I can feel the yearning hit me. The ultimate guitar emotional genius. Nobody does it like Alex!

[@RjakVegas]

Chris, I've been sitting here for an hour with happy tears in my eyes watching a musician-to-musician interview I never thought was possible. I've always imagined this is the kind of conversation you only get to have when you reach the level of accomplishment of a Shiflett or a Lifeson, but here you've gone and made that moment available for all of us. I can't begin to thank you for this channel and your approach. With your sense of humour, slowing Alex down to get into the technique weeds was absolutely incredible, and the joy on your faces (you discovering, him re-discovering) is fucking priceless. Thank you SO much.

[@cdclemensen]

One of the rare guitarist/musicians that is a living breathing monument museum. His impact on modern music is immeasurable.

[@davegrice3423]

Always have appreciated Alex's work, but I think I have a newfound fondness for Alex himself. He is so generous with his time and sharing relatable experiences here.

[@bingetyrant]

Nothing better than watching and listening two great players sharing and caring about the craft.

[@MerrickGuitar]

Absolutely, we need more of these episodes

[@josephallard2626]

What a terrific human being and musician…… so humble and yet a master!

[@7389]

Great interview, thanks so much! Female Rush fan since 1980 here, saw them almost 40 times over the years. 🙂

[@jettsom]

Alex deserved so much credit yet he's so humble. He's up there with Hendrix, Holdsworth, SRV, Page, Gilmour, etc.

[@rickjason215]

Holdsworth was more of a jazz guy. None of those other guitarists compare to him.

[@PeterFin]

For me the most emotional, the most energetic, the most impressive guitar solo ever is Alex´s solo in "La Villa Strangiato". Particularly ´"Exit Stage Left" -version. I love how it is growing from singing notes in the beginning to shredding climax in the end. Every time I hear it, it gets tears in my eyes. Beautiful!

[@jamesturner519]

Everytime I hear it I have no idea how he perfectly gets out of the the decending lines at the end of the solo into the next part without a hiccup. It's wow.

[@commonman317]

That is a great version.

[@JeffMcLeod]

I think Power Windows and Hold Your Fire have some of Alex' most innovative playing. Having to find his place in that mix really forced him to come up with some killer guitar parts!

[@VoiceofFox]

Agreed. Such unique guitar tones on those. What I think of as the trademark Lifeson sound.

[@trenken]

A lot of rush fans dont love those albums but i like them. And man would they be MUCH worse if alex wasnt such a team player and found out how to fill in the sound since geddy was basically soloing in every song. Any other guitarist who wasnt nearly as nice as alex might have quit the band at that point.

[@rickmb66]

You are so right. For me these are some of his most difficult to play. He flows so easily between rhythm and lead on these albums. Changing tone and effects along the way then dropping into amazing solos. A whole lot more complexity to the guitar parts than you "hear" at first listen. I love it when tribute bands bring the guitar up in the mix on those 80s albums.

[@henryoh792]

I think the solo for Emotion Detector on Power Windows is so beautiful

[@tanker335]

Signals has had my heart since the day it debuted. I was that kid pulling the baseball cap over his eyes.

[@EDOGG62]

My favorite video with Alex et al is the "Dinner with Rush" video... just three friends hanging out. Priceless.

[@QuinStifler]

So fantastic the way Alex explains the EMOTIONAL and ARTISTIC intent behind his musical choices. Most guitarists would get all technical and talk music theory, but he really just seems to want us to understand what he’s saying (Ironic with the “BlaBlaBla!” speech) and how it reflects the song's sentiment. I respect that so much as a visual Artist AND Musician. Much like interpretive dance, abstract modern visual Art, or improvisational Jazz, this is why Rush’s music is at another level and is TIMELESS! 🤘

[@tracycarbone934]

Incredable Mr. Alex Lifeson, your music got me through a childhood of parent alcoholics, constant violence mental and physical. Rush music gave me the hope for a better future!! Thank you I still listen to your music and have turned my 5 daughters into Rush fans!!💜

[@mablood]

Me too friend, similar story, Rush saved me, educated me and gave me hope❤️

[@mykullthecimmerian7183]

I'm gonna say it.......Alex is the most underrated guitarist ever! I have never missed anything like I miss Rush. I have all that music they made, right there, to listen to......but there will never be any new Rush to absorb. I hope they know what they have meant to me and so many others. I am a diehard metalhead but Rush has been my most favorite band since I first heard them in the 80's. I wish them only the best. Thank you from the bottom of my very soul!🤘😂

[@Emlizardo]

Alex's solos are very unlike any other rock guirarist I can think of. He seems to suddenly enter the song from some secret back door nobody knew about, almost like another person appearing in the band for awhile. When his solos in Freewill or Tom Sawyer come in, it's like the stage lighting suddenly changes color. And they're so insouciant, like "Decorum be damned, I'm going for it!" Love him to death.

[@heatmyzer9]

Dude- had to look up “insouciant”.

[@Emlizardo]

@@heatmyzer9 You know, I think I used the wrong word for what I meant! I didn't mean to say his solos are "nonchalant" or "indifferent." I was trying to describe a "devil-may-care" attitude I hear in his playing.

[@heatmyzer9]

@@Emlizardo all good bro, I looked it up and it fits perfectly. Light-hearted is right on the money. Meaning…he’s playing what he wants, regardless. All three members were driven by creativity, self expression…and love of music. Alex has always been playful, lighthearted in his vibe….and that comes through on stage and in his playing/composition. Like you, I have loved these guys since I first heard them as a kid (a drummer back then). All of this to say, Alex is a monster player and one more word…… authentic.

[@karenjulien2249]

Very well put Emlizardo!

[@ryannash8143]

Even during the synthesizer era, Alex’s playing still shined through. An amazing and immensely influential guitar player. The band as a whole, a once in a lifetime musical experience.

[@renmusical]

Solos from Marathon, Big Money, The Weapon, Kid Gloves, and Open Secrets come to my mind. Despite his reservations, I felt Alex succeeded in adapting in that era and it shows his versatility

[@BaconDrive]

​@@renmusicalI was listening to Grace under pressure recently and was absolutely blown away by the guitar work on Afterimage

[@sackyjamboree]

I fumbled through a terrible version of this solo when I played it with two friends for our high school talent show in 1992. No KZbin lessons back then. No tabs anywhere for it. Just had to try to figure it out. After watching this video (and rewinding a few spots over and over) I just played the whole thing with all the right stuff... and hearing it come out of MY guitar reduced me to tears. Chris & Alex - Thank you for doing this.

[@snowdoguk]

Alex feels he has to explain what he's doing but actually he doesn't know himself. He just plays and feels it. The solo is so sublime and in the moment. This is what separates him from everyone else.

[@eoinjennings519]

I have seen him contradict his own approved tabs - very confusing 😂

[@thomhickey4277]

@@eoinjennings519 absolutely! ... and contradicts himself! There are two in-depth lessons he did on this song that both include the solo. One you can find on KZbin, the other is an Apple GarageBand Lesson from the Artist (it's incredible and he did lessons for Tom Sawyer, Spirit of Radio and Working man - totally awesome). He plays it differently in all of them! And still differently in this video. Lastly, on the studio version, that final triplet run is actually quite complicated and different than any time he has shown it that I've seen in his lessons or live.

[@eoinjennings519]

@@thomhickey4277 I have tried to work that out many times from source and lessons and tabs and ended up with multiple options !

[@cirenosnor5768]

That characteristic of his playing isn’t what sets him apart. There were other guitar players who were in the moment and just “feeling it” as you say. Van Halen immediately comes to mind

[@stoneysdead689]

@@cirenosnor5768 99% of rock guitarist play by feel- you're right, that doesn't' set Lifeson apart in anyway. It's his talent, the ability to construct a really good solo is not something you run across often, even amongst good guitarists.

[@brendanxtrom]

I love this man’s playing. Hearing the necromancer solo is probably the single moment I thought I wanted to be in a band.

[@TylerGuitar5617]

Jeez limelight I've heard 8 million times and it doesn't get old. That chorus is one of the most beautiful chord progressions I've ever heard. Alex is an amazing player and he answers these questions with such good detail!

[@Kendo276]

I love Alex and his ingenuity. He is truly a master at not only solos but rhythm that transcends the typical rock structure. Rush is one of my top five favorite bands! This was an awesome interview!!

[@pilsnrimgaard2507]

Remember guitar players. It's not just the notes, simple or hard, it's the emotion and feeling behind the notes that make Al's playing so unique.

[@louisaustinallen]

Goosebumps every time Alex plays a note. What a wonderful interview.

[@iggyfritz7150]

First I have to say how much I love Rush since the age of 17 I am 63 now and still listening. Second I am a Musician, guitarist myself. Thank you so much Alex for allowing us to spend time with you to learn straight from you the proper way to play limelight. I have Attempted many times to play Rush songs, but was only able to pull off subdivisions with my band And that took a month. With that said should reveal how difficult it is to emulate Rush. I have seen the finest Musicians drop the ball Attempting to play Rush. Of all your shows and videos I have seen Lerxst you are a Picasso guitarist. Sincerely I feel your emotions, you have moved me to tears and made me feel like I climbed Mount Everest. You have achieved the guitar God status and then some. And I have to add what a wonderful person you are and what a blessing Rush has been to millions of people's lives including mine. You know that even aliens Are planning to clone Rush 😂 Seriously thanks Shifty for your show As a guitarist I am learning so much because of your show. And Alex; Geddy said since you used to plug in his amp all the time That you need to let me borrow one of yours 😂 God bless.

[@Cheathamforce5spspsp]

I tried for YEARS to figure this out. Alex is such a great dude. This solo is so much about emotion, and being in touch with the song!! Amazing!

[@TheMacastronomer]

I can’t get enough of that. Alex is amazing and that lead is artistic madness. Love it!

[@dwalsh2112]

This is the best thing I have seen in I don't know how long. Thank you so, so much to Chris Shiflett and Alex Lifeson for doing this. Pure joy.

[@drad8266]

Man, wow how amazing is Alex Lifeson. Definition of humility, professionalism and class. Lots of folks would do well to imitate. Great interview and amazed with the whole process. Great work!

[@moparedtn]

There will never be any more explosive energy in a concerts' audience than there was when Alex did the solo in Analog Kid. Every time I witnessed it, it was as if the roof was gonna come up off the joint. Everyone was just so invested in his nailing that one and when he did, everyone burst out in celebration. It was always pure magic. You had to be there... - Ed on the Ridge

[@joestefanoni5263]

Nothing hits me more on an emotional level than the first La Villa Strangiato solo on Rush in Rio.

[@judasplow25]

Best concert I ever saw ,rush in 1983 Duluth,Minnesota. Mostly music from permanent waves, and moving pictures. It was flawless. Alex was a guitar God.

[@patriot3636]

Never had the opportunity to meet Alex, but as a guitar player, I love and respect his playing. I think he's very underrated and often under appreciated.

[@tjthompson4728]

Really enjoyed this. Alex is such a musician but more so, just a great human being. So personable and sincere. Thrilled he’s Canadian

[@BaconFire]

Alex Lifeson is a Global Treasure to humanity. Amazing human being, amazing musician and he represents us carbon based life forms well. As a teen in the early 80s, I loved their songs, but did not get Alex's guitar work at all. Too many shredders had my attention as a typical short attention span teen. It wasn't until Show of Hands that I started to see Alex guitar playing for what it really was. He was playing to something bigger, something bigger than his ego or his talent. You can tell this when he explains the solo in Limelight and what it meant to him. Every note of that solo he lived and owned and it really is timeless and display his depth as a genuinie human being. To me, Alex is greater that just a musician in the best rock band ever. His character and personality and spirit is really timeless and MUCH needed as an example in this divisive world we live in. Thank you for interviewin Alex and thank you Alex for your generosity in all areas of life. God bless.

[@bobule]

Amazing. I wish my Dad was still alive as this would have blown his mind. It's currently blowing mine! Alex is such a genuine and nice guy, I guess sometimes it's ok to meet your heroes!

[@djpgreek]

I’ve been a Rush maniac since I could ever remember. I’ve been trying to learn so many songs for so long and this was amazing actually hearing from Alex. Kudos to Shifty for asking really awesome and engaging questions too.

[@TheShornak]

I remember watch Rush where the 3 were at a restaurant together. I think it was about 2012. I sat and just listened to them interact and I had a smile on my face the whole time. I would have loved to just sit there with them and just listen to them talk. They were 3 genuine guys.

[@griffgames9538]

I remember that sequence. You could see the dude's loved each other and hanging out. That's why they could compose serious arrangements together so well.

[@daviddixon7326]

What a beloved ICON!!!, who has the utmost humility. Thank you Alex for the chords and solos across the soundtrack of my life. My neighbor dropped the needle on 2112 and introduced Rush to me when I was 11 (1976). It set a new bar for me in what my ears would crave from that point forward.

[@frankiethefixer]

Alex comes off as just a genuinely nice humble guy considering what a legend he is on guitar.

[@Tranquillado]

Props, Chris, for mentioning the Hentor Sportscaster-what a thrill to hear Al talk about it for a few minutes. It’s crazy how deeply embedded into Rush lore the Hentor is. And the Hentor sold for about $183K in Al’s auction.

[@brianeaglen4190]

I always thought it was a Strat in the Subdivisions video? I saw them twice 83, 89.

[@brianeaglen4190]

Additionally, my girlfriend fell asleep in 89. She had mono at the time, but my friends looked at me like "how can she be asleep... At a Rush concert?" I just shook my head in disbelief. That one didn't last.

[@Tranquillado]

@@brianeaglen4190 It is!

[@RichTones]

Alex has one of the hardest styles to replicate, his playing is so unique. Great interview!

[@pazz6708]

Man, this was such a great interview. I absolutely love Alex's playing he truly found his own unique sound. I still get goosebumps when listening their music. RUSH fan 4 life and beyond....

[@mlkennedy67111]

As a violinist, I've always appreciated seeing Lifeson's technique... And we do it without frets. 😂 🎻

[@deanford1795]

I'm sure that is no easy task feel it and know it awesome

[@rimskykorsakov2892]

yeah with fewer strings and shorter neck 😁

[@Joe-mz6dc]

You're cute too 😁

[@michaelaiello9525]

As a teen, I could never have imagined the time that we live in now when you could just pop on KZbin and Alex Freakin’ Lifeson would be giving an interview and a lesson. Unreal!!! This would have blown my mind and altered my life completely back then… and now I just get so nostalgic and incredibly thankful. Thank you Alex, I completely idolized you and went batty trying to figure out a smidgen of your genius.

[@VibeXplorer]

We are indeed so "spoiled" by tech now compared to our younger years!

[@mattiebigtime]

An absolute legend that has zero ego. I could listen to him tell stories all day. And he probably would if you asked.

[@billyidol2115]

Legendary man. I've heard him more than a couple times talk about when he does solos and he finally gets them and breaks them down and creates the mood of what the song that they're doing is all about. He likes to match the feeling for the vibe of the song. And Limelight definitely does that but you can pick it out in a lot of Rush's other songs also. Whether it's red barchetta, and that excitement of racing, the thrill and the speed and daring. You can just feel what he does in his solos for each type of song. It's really cool

[@johnkruton9708]

The sheer joy in Alex as he’s doing the teaching and call and response Sorta way is inspiring and awesome! I’m a Rush fan of the earlier bigger hits and Moving Pictures is routinely played all the way through when I listen to it. I like 2112 and the Phrasing Alex came up with in the temple. Always argued with classmates about Alex vs EVH. Appreciate both for their uniqueness and similarities.

[@fruitometry5284]

Very good interview - thanks Shifty! Alex has been a personal hero for me over forty years.