Rush (FIRST TIME HEARING) - Tom Sawyer (BRITS REACTION!)

[@pleasantvalleypickerca7681]

Rush. Geddy Lee on vocals, bass and keyboard's. He'd sometime sing, play bass and keyboard foot pedals all at the same time. Neil Peart not just a drummer. One of the most complex percussionists of all time. Alex Lifeson on guitar. Incredibly gifted. Could play the hardest power chords and the most delicate beautiful notes, often in the same song. Three world class masters at their craft.

[@Nocturnal_Vision]

Masterfully said

[@ludwigvanzappa9548]

Those three guys liked each other and it shows.

[@lynnw9857]

Progressive Hard Rock.

[@mattb5370]

That is a worthy description of this legendary trio.

[@rhadamanthus2601]

Absolutely! Must add: Peart one of the greatest genius lyricists.

[@pe8405]

They did not go through several line up changes. John Rutsey was the drummer on the debut album and Neil Peart replaced him for the second album right through to their last album. Same 3 guys for 40 plus years. Neil was the lyristist btw.

[@drogusmaxwell6640]

Geddy and Alex called Neil "The New Guy" up until the end.

[@caryd67]

Rush was originally a 4 piece: Alex and Geddy both on guitars, John Rutsey on drums, and a guy named Jeff on bass. Jeff split, Ged took over on bass, and then they were 3. It took a couple of years before their debut record which was the only one John ever played on. Then of course The Professor joined and the rest is history.

[@martyadams3172]

@@caryd67 Actually, Gedd didn't play guitar for Rush. He did replace Jeff on bass, though, and then he became the third member of Rush. He and Alex did do a lot of playing together before that, but not as "Rush". High school auditorium days.

[@alexanderromalo7153]

@@drogusmaxwell6640 You can always trust those guys for a bit of tongue-in-cheek where their friendship is/was concerned. Never be another like 'em.

[@PapaFlippinSmurf]

Neil Peart was, is and always will be the perfect drummer for RUSH. Others would have been blessed to have him.

[@michaelbriefs9764]

Tom Sawyer came out in 1981. Their seminal, break-out album called "2112" came out in 1976.

[@JeromeDukes]

Just have to clean up some of the facts here. John Rutsey was the original drummer until their debut album "Rush" 1974. Neil Peart joined the band on their first tour, also in 1974. The lineup has never changed since. Tom Sawyer was released in 1981, not 1976. Rush is a progressive (prog) rock band. Their music from the early 80's is the most famous era of Rush. Rush's first hit song is Working Man off their debut album. When you hear their debut album the comparison you get is Led Zeppelin. Once Neil joined the band, the music direction changed to a more progressive experimental style of hard rock. During this era (mid to late 70's) is when Rush wrote some of their long epic story telling songs. Their most famous long songs are Xanadu (live exit stage left) and Natural Science. Their most famous instrumentals are La Villa Strangiato and YYZ. Their most famous commercial radio friendly songs (besides Tom Sawyer) are Limelight and The Spirit of Radio. Rush is one of the greatest bands to watch live and are arguably the greatest power trio ever. And yes, Geddy Lee is the lead singer, bass player and keyboard player. In fact, all three band members have to multitask to produce the studio version at a live show.

[@WhatHaveIMade]

Thank you for doing the cleanup so that I didn't have to.

[@cdnrock7433]

Yes thanks for getting the facts corrected for them. Life long RUSH fan here.

[@fjhgh100]

I remember when I heard this song in 1981 on the radio , I immediately bought the album, 41 years later I still have the album which I will pass on to my daughter. Great reaction guys from Toronto Canada.!!

[@squamishfish]

Rush was one of the greatest live bands ever , the reason you may not know a lot of their music is because they did not conform to radio air format , they would play longer songs in odd time , The singer is the Bass and keyboard player , the drummer writes the lyrics , you can’t pigeon hole the style of music , Just know these guys can do well ove4 three hour shows and you will never get bored

[@pleasantvalleypickerca7681]

John Rutsey was only drummer on the first album and he didn't write lyrics. Neil Peart replaced him on the second album and wrote most of their lyrics. Rush are one of the most talented rock trios that ever existed.

[@martyadams3172]

Thank you! As far as lyics and music on the first album, that was Alex and Geddy.

[@pluckinmageetar]

Only 3 of them!!!!!! Always, only 3! Simply the GOAT!!! Period!!!!

[@DavidMartinez-iz8fe]

People often say Neil Peart is your favorite drummers favorite drummer. The man was an animal musician.

[@mdu2112]

8:45 "Who's playin' that? ....it can't obviously be!" Hahahahahahah! Hold on to your hats, chaps! Looking forward to more Rush!

[@BritPopsReact]

@mdu2112 There was a lot to take in there on a first time viewing. We will be back with more from Rush soon. Cheers and thanks for popping into the channel

[@FUBAR1986]

This is a huge rabbit hole for you to go down. We’ll see how you do

[@kevinray5755]

glad you finally discovered RUSH. a great Canadian band. Enjoy the ride. that is the lead singer on the synth. he plays bass as well

[@gregxite]

Oh boy a long journey ahead. So much to learn and love…

[@lvgelfling72]

Oh yeah! Welcome to Rush!!!

[@sandyboudreaux-barber9586]

The ultimate Prog Group. Tom Sawyer is my favorite of theirs

[@jgweems]

Well, if you've heard one Rush song...you've heard one Rush song. Their style changed from album to album and even song to song. Awesome!

[@iKvetch558]

And...don't even get us Rush fans STARTED on all the times they mixed different styles in the SAME DAMN SONG! LOL ✌

[@CN-uc6py]

As mentioned below, The Spirit of Radio is a very good tune. I would recommend that as your next stop on your journey of discovery. And yes, the lead played the keyboard. There are only 3 members.

[@BritPopsReact]

@C N Thank you for the information and we will follow up on Rush. Thanks for watching.

[@martyadams3172]

@@BritPopsReact Not just keyboards, but he's also playing taurus pedals with his feet! Alex also has taurus pedals of his own.

[@mdu2112]

@@martyadams3172 Alex has been seen playing keys on The Garden!

[@winstonhewett6679]

This was a filming of the studio while they were actually recording this studio version of the song! Watch them live.

[@nessaseetah1805]

This is indeed, good, Mate! There will never be another Rush. The whole Moving Pictures album is great. They were truthing us back then.

[@BritPopsReact]

@Nessa See Tah Cheers, thanks for the comment. We will be revisiting Rush soon.

[@compnnburns8831]

actually a top 15 hit in UK in 1981 off the Moving Pictures album of same year now quintuple platinum from US sales alone - 1 of the most revered prog rock albums of all time

[@davebeins2593]

God. Level. Music.

[@mdu2112]

OFTEN, after listening to Xanadu (ESL) I feel like I have seen the face of God.

[@martinduquette8749]

What you see is a blend between the video itself and the recording album session images. Le Studio in Morin-Heights was not even 30 minutes from where I live in near Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Le Studio was also called Canada's Abbey Road as well, you should check.

[@anthonypallen7919]

It is the lead singer and bassiste. In concert when he plays keyboards he plays bass with floor pedals

[@markjohnson4217]

Tom Sawyer was released in 1981, the opening track from their classic album, Moving Pictures. John Rutsey was the drummer on their debut album in 74, but he quit before their first major tour and was replaced by Neil, widely regarded as the top drummer in rock, he also wrote their lyrics.

[@PapaFlippinSmurf]

Yay...Brits hear real music for the first time since the Cranberries. Welcome back to life ya'll. Geddy (Gary) Lee = vocalist. Awesome as well. It's well to see you youngsters listening to history. CHEERS!

[@BritPopsReact]

@Papa Flippin' Smurf Hey, great name by the way. We have a new Rush song coming soon. We enjoy going all over the place on this channel, so come back soon. Cheers

[@PapaFlippinSmurf]

@@BritPopsReact Thanks. Yup yup. I'll be around as much as I can. Slainte !!

[@andyburch1819]

This was your favourite band and you didn’t even know it! …just keep running through their catalog

[@VinE83656]

Some corrections: Drummer John Rutsey was only on their first album, it was the late Neil Peart who was their lyricist and drummer from album two until his death. Tom Sawyer was on the Moving Pictures album which I believe came out in 1981.

[@merovechthe1st]

Tom Sawyer came out in 1981 on the Album "Moving Pictures." Rush are, and have always been, a 3 piece band consisting of Geddy Lee on Bass, keyboards, foot pedals and vocals, Alex Lifeson on Guitars and foot pedals and Neil Peart on drums and percussion. The original drummer, John Rutsey, left the band after the first album "Rush" was released in 1974. He was almost immediately replaced by Peart and that band stayed active through 2016. Peart died in 2020.

[@richardmtl]

My generation was really spoiled with all this talent coming out

[@mikenastasi8927]

Tom Sawyer was on Moving Pictures their 8th album, released in 1981. John Rutsey only played on their 1974 self titled debut album RUSH.

[@BritPopsReact]

@Mike Nastasi Cheers Mike, thnaks for the info, we will be back soon with more from Rush

[@toddwalker4301]

I'm smiling at your reactions. I wish I could discover them for the first time again. Welcome to the world of virtuoso musicians, odd time signatures, and very eclectic musical tracks. Rush covered many music styles in their interesting career!

[@stevenaleman7454]

Great song, great band, great talent, great trio of friends doing what they truly love....making music that reflects their personality... "The Camera Eye" is one song that deserves a good listen/reaction... It talks about life in 2 important cities, New York and London.... It's a masterpiece!! ✌️🤗🥁

[@BlueBarchetta67]

Spirit Of Radio was the biggest hit they had over hear, it's still played on radio 2 now and again.

[@MarcoBosma]

Rush is so good!

[@kenhenderson6994]

Moving pictures came out in 1981, Same members for 40 years!

[@benhill8454]

C'mon guys. Hahahaha. Neil Peart on drums and writes the lyrics, Geddy Lee on Bass, Keys and the vocals. Holy smokes Lol 🤣

[@markb.2112]

Going back and listening to your (I believe) four reactions for Rush, you have a lot of positive things to say about this band (and rightly so). They are world class musicians, very well read, and just looked to improve their sound while keeping it fresh. Why haven't you reacted to anymore Rush? They have 19 studio albums and at least 4 live albums. I quite enjoy your reactions to this band. Please continue...

[@WhatHaveIMade]

That's a song from RUSH's Moving Pictures album, which I think most fans agree is their best ever. You could pick any track from that album and not go wrong. I saw someone else mention Subdivisions, it's also a great song and has a similar vibe to Tom Sawyer. The Spirit of Radio might be the closest thing to a pop song they ever did, but it's still played with a ridiculous level of musicianship. If you want to see that musicianship demonstrated live, then their Exit Stage Left tour's version of the song Xanadu is the one to watch.

[@princeofpcos9804]

Moving Pictures is probably the best album to introduce someone to Rush but most hardcore Rush fans cite 2112 or Hemispheres as their best

[@mrc01d]

Gentlemen Rush is a journey worth taking.

[@firefighterchick]

I found a vintage reaction. 😅 Rush had many hits and definitely had a distinctive sound both in the vocals and instrumental.

[@827dusty]

Lead singer Geddy Lee plays Bass, Keyboards as well. Just three guys are making all of this music.

[@romankoltun5935]

Thks for the great reaction guys. If I may clarify one thing though, there were only lineup changes in the very early years, from 1974-2015 it was the same 3 Geddy Lee, Neil Peart and Alex Lifeson.

[@porridgeandbananas]

John Rutsey left in 1974 Tom Sawyer was released in 1981.

[@S-Ltd1000]

So John Rutsey was the drummer at the same time as Neil and Tom Sawyer was released in 1976.🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@BoJangles42]

A 3-man band that happened to be 3 of the best in the world at their instruments. Rush is phenomenal.

[@ashleygraham8781]

Best band ever. Saw them live 14 times in the UK over the years. Nobody came close IMO.

[@m.a.sperry3424]

Rush is a legend from right here in my backyard (Toronto). Unfortunately, I'm only just exploring their extensive library now. BP1, you might have heard Closer To The Heart, which was recorded in the UK, and charted quite high there. It's one of their shorter songs, therefore radio friendly. Most of their other tracks are expansive and complex creations.They make a lot of music for just three guys.

[@pinewaves]

Welcome to your adventure downs the Rush rabbit hole. You will not be disappointed!

[@ritchmoore1442]

I've been lucky enough to see them 5 times live, and they are amazing. Check out YYZ Live in Rio

[@99priss]

"Tom Sawyer" is the opening track on the ":Moving Pictures" LP released in 1981

[@fantasyguru26]

Correction: Geddy Lee was the vocalist, bass player and keyboardist. John Rutsey was their drummer for the first album only (1974). And this song Tom Sawyer wasn't released in 1976, it was released in 1981 on the Moving Pictures album.

[@Freelancer_1960]

Yes, it was the lead singer and bassist, Geddy Lee, playing the keyboards as well. Also, while on the bass, he's also playing bass footpedals. Welcome to the club, and continue listening, you'll be continually "pleased". You need to catch the top hits, "The Spirit of Radio", "Limelight", "Xanadu", "YYZ", and "La Villa Strangiato". When you get fully immersed, check out "2112".

[@ajgrant1975]

Neil Pert is your favorite drummer's favorite drummer.

[@kduton1]

Actually tom sayer came out on moving pictures album in 1981.

[@danreed5171]

It is pronounced Neil PIER-T. like a pier at the shore........

[@laurahenry1340]

Keith Moon was one of Neil Pearts’ biggest influences. Check out his solos, he always pays tribute. Shave and a haircut rhythm.

[@imacmanx8562]

Yes, Geddy Lee did lead vocals, bass, AND keyboards. As mentioned below, you need to listen to The Spirit of Radio, plus Limelight, and for a mind blowing live performance, watch "Working Man Live in Cleveland". This is early Prog rock, with Neil writing 95% of their lyrics. The Rush rabbit hole is deep....be prepared. As always, RIP Neil.

[@bboyshotty]

DEFINITELY more Rush!! YYZ live is 100% a MUST to see their brilliance in their mastery of their crafts. "The holy trinity"

[@anthonypallen7919]

Actually recorder there in Québec, Le Studio its called . This is the track and takes

[@CygnusKC]

"Tom Sawyer" came out in 1981 as the opening track to the "Moving Pictures" album.

[@CygnusKC]

The original drummer on their 1974 album "Rush" was John Rutsey, but was replaced with Neil Peart before the tour for that album. The lineup didn't ever change after that. Neil wrote almost all of the lyrics from their 2nd album forward. Geddy Lee is the singer, bass player and keys/pedals, and Alex Lifeson is the guitar player who also does some synth pedal work and occasional backing vocals. Just the three of them all day, every day. (R.I.P., Professor.)

[@GS-xt8fu]

One of the best bands of all time in regards to instrumental capability. Try more. XYZ

[@deanharris7149]

@32 seconds…. Hold on to your ass, this bit here, RULES!!!

[@karlkuehn4783]

Spirit of Radio, Limelight, The Trees, 2112, the list goes on.

[@losthor1zon]

The lineup: Geddy Lee on vocals, bass, synth, pedal bass; Alex Lifeson on guitar (with pedal mods); Neil Peart on drums & contributing most lyrics. In recording, as shown, tracks may be laid down separately, but this band prided itself on getting the same sound playing live - with only the three of them!

[@hylbar1]

Also this song was released in 1981 ''Moving Pictures" album. Not 1976.

[@paulbosveld4576]

Rush is one of Canada's greatest achievements.As well as Triumph.

[@thomasdutton3150]

One of the greatest rock bands in history. Albums galore

[@justme2]

8:43 yea, 'Geddy Lee' pays bass, sings & played the oregon.

[@thatsnice99]

Living under a rock… “ I never heard TOM SAWYER before.

[@jim55price]

As others have already noted, Geddy Lee is on bass, keyboards and vocals. I refer to him as "the triplets", hence Rush is a 5-piece band. :)

[@EPhotoAlbum]

Rush is without a doubt my favorite band and the most talented. I would say review " La Villa Strangiato"

[@NoneYaBidness762]

“I think I may have heard of them”. Wow. That hurts my soul. RIP Professor.

[@TonyCallaway]

Progressive rock at his best! Masters! Lee Dr in Music PHD, lifeson and Peart virtuosos !! One the best musical rock band ever!

[@drogusmaxwell6640]

Geddy Lee would sing, play the keys, while tapping out a bass line with his foot.

[@karlkuehn4783]

Yes Geddy Lee sings, plays bass, and keyboards.

[@drummerdaveRush7777]

Greatest band of all time lol lyrically and musically all 3 are virtuosos on their instruments!!! Their library is phenomenal, music is thought provoking relatable inspirational try driven fly by night, a Farwell to kings, hemispheres, big money ,mission ,marathon lock and key, turn the page,half the world count down, 2112 t,rees dream line ,bravado, roll the bones, spirt of radio freewill nature science, Xanadu,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

[@therealxunil2]

Hey boys, there's this thing called multitrack recording - so the same musician can play more than one instrument on a recording! It's only something Les Paul innovated I think.

[@BritPopsReact]

@therealxunil2 Cheers, thanks for the info.

[@therealxunil2]

@@BritPopsReact now that’s a good way to deflect a snarky comment from an arsehole. :)

[@michaelbriefs9764]

In 1974, after their 1st album came out, they changed drummers, from John Rutsey to Neil Peart. After that, they never changed personnel. Neil Peart on drums and lyrics, Geddy Lee on vocals, keyboards and bass guitar, Alex Lifeson on guitar and some keys, some backing vocals.

[@brettking1014]

If you wanna go down the Rush rabbit hole, react to every song suggested by the Rush army. There are 19 albums, and I only dislike 4 songs. I’ve been a fan for 40 years…it’s all good! You’ll love the experience. Glad to see you guys taking a crack at it 😎

[@827dusty]

Rush is a Canadian Band that wAS formed in the early 70s. It's just three guys. All of them are supreme musians and artists. Drummer Niel Peart was considered one of the top 2 or three greatest in Rock history along with John Bonham, and a few others. They are a Progressive, Rock/ jazz fusion Band. Veery well known to everyone over 50 yrs. and older.

[@jameslindsey1017]

The fourth member is also Geddy Lee.

[@WOranos]

Yes, the lead singer, Geddy Lee, is the band's keyboardist and bass guitarist.

[@michaelbriefs9764]

Do Spirit of Radio, Limelight, YYZ (live in Rio), and Subdivisions. This is the opening serving of catalog hits, before moving on to their more Epic songs. :)

[@jschap712]

Only 3 members. Geddy Lee could sing, play bass, and play keyboard with his feet, all at the same time.

[@somecallmetim2112]

A few bits and bobs: it's pronounced "peert", not "pert". "Tom Sawyer" was released on the album "Moving Pictures" in 1981. Geddy Lee, the bassist, keyboardist, and vocalist, frequently plays a bank of foot pedals, playing bass sounds when his hands are on the keyboards, or playing synth notes while his hands are playing bass. Alex Lifeson, the guitarist, also uses a bank of pedals as well. This is one of the secrets to the rich tapestry of sounds produced by a 3-piece band. Suggestions: YYZ (Live in Rio, also live Exit Stage Left tour w/drum solo, also studio), Spirit of Radio (official video), Freewill, Limelight, Red Barchetta, Working Man (Live in Cleveland 2011 Time Machine tour, and then studio to hear the original), Xanadu (Live Exit Stage Left 1981), 2112 (pronounced "twenty-one twelve", a 20-minute epic, please watch with lyrics up), The Analog Kid, Digital Man, Subdivisions, Bastille Day, The Camera Eye, Cygnus X-1 (Book I: The Voyage), Cygnus X-1 (Book II: Hemispheres), Natural Science, Lakeside Park, and don't forget Neil's drum solo Live in Frankfurt!

[@BritPopsReact]

@Some Call Me Tim Hello to you and thank you for all the great information. We appreciate it. Cheers

[@somecallmetim2112]

@@BritPopsReact Can't wait for you to discover and appreciate more Rush as you dive into their catalog! Enjoy. It's glorious.

[@beeoehm3108]

Spirit of Radio is definitely a good track to check out. Good luck dealing with the Rush nerdniks correcting you all the time LOL

[@BritPopsReact]

@Bee Oehm Hello and thanks for the comment and for checking out the channel. It's OK, we get used to it. Thanks for watching

[@OronOfMontreal]

"Tom Sawyer" is from the early 1980s, not from 1976. Glad you lads are enjoying our most popular musical export. As others have mentioned, "The Spirit of Radio" is one of their best songs, not only lyrically excellent but musically energetic and full of one joyful surprise after another.

[@lvgelfling72]

Yikes. This song did not come out in 1976. 1981 is when this album was released. This song was also not written by Jon Rutsey as he had been out of the band since their debut album. This is their 8th studio album (I believe) wiki states several lineup changes but a change with Geddy stepping in in 1968, then Neil joining the band in July 1974, two weeks before their first tour in the US. Neil was immediately nominated to be the lyricist because he was an avid reader and honestly, it was just a perfect fit for them. Recommend Fly By Night, Spirit of Radio, or Limelight, or Red Barchetta next.

[@stevenaleman7454]

The song is played in a 7/4 time signature mostly...

[@rickd438]

Best 3 man band of all time no doubt.

[@brianrussell6570]

thelead singer plays bass and keyboard while live in concert

[@roscoepcoltrane23]

Best live band ever.

[@tomasmoore3549]

RIP Neil Peart(PEEerrt).The professor.Rush as a bar band In South West Ontario , Cleveland,Buffalo.Hamilton Toronto .Has so much music.Some say progressive rock.Received the order of Canada after 45 years of hits.Like Knight hood.Check out.Best Intro ever,drum solo Frankfurt Spirit of radio.Absolutley insane in Rio.

[@Shigawire]

1981 dudes. :D Probably been mentioned already. And definitely not John Rutsey (RIP), but Neil Peart (RIP).

[@toddbrady183]

Guys, there was no multiple line up change, John Rutsey was replaced after the debut album "Rush" By The Great Neil Peart since when the line up was the same all their career👍 FYI, Geddy Lee plays Bass Keyboards and Vocals, Alex Lifeson Plays Guitar and a little bit of Keys, Neil The Professor Peart is Percussionist extraordinaire and main Lyricist👍 Check out Xanadu👌👍 My opinion, Greatest Band ever. 3 piece, sounding like an orchestra👍❤️

[@k_spats]

*RUSH RULES!!!* 💜💫✌🏼🎵

[@DclementsRolandfc]

If you'd like a good take on their talent. Watch them do "working man" Cleveland concert video. It might be one of the best ever live performances by three people. It showcases the amazing talent of each of them.

[@timlamb6196]

They only had one line up change and that was the drummers in 1975 right after their debut in 1974. This was recorded in le studio just outside of Monreal in the winter of 1980. They were largely influenced by Zeppelin, Yes, and Floyd and in return influenced many other bands from Metallica to Maiden to Queensryche, Dream Theatre, Foo Fighters and even a little bit of Anthrax because they had covered so much musical ground over the decades. They started out as a more straight forward metallic version of Zeppelin to an epic more metallic version of Yes with a little bit of Floyd thrown in there. They have been called the high priest of epic metal or the god fathers of prog metal. and that was just one guy on vocals, bass, and keyboards which is Geddy Lee.

[@CHAUNCEY.GARDNER.]

This studio is in Quebec,it was used by the Police and others,still there but just a shell.

[@BritPopsReact]

@CHAUNCEY GARDNER Hello to you and thank you for the information. What a total shame to hear that the studio is no longer used. Thanks for watching.

[@paulbrighton3303]

Three piece band. This was recorded in 1980 and released in 1981.