Rush: Full Interview | House of Strombo

[@TheStromboShow]

Thanks to everyone who tuned in to the premiere of this special interview. If you have any thoughts about anything we discussed, would love to hear them.

[@robert71457]

Its just so great to see the guys open up on how their lives are progressing.

[@AnalogKid82]

Thanks so much for this!

[@markbrennan3780]

Thank you, it’s great to see the boys are doing well, we’re lucky to live in a time of such true master musicians. You should be proud, you just sat down and interviewed Mozart and Vivaldi, only one missing was Bach, the professor will always live in our ears and in our hearts…

[@goodmusemusic]

I just have to say the way Neil was discussed was impressive, as were many parts of this interview. I can't wrap my mind around the level difficulty in keeping everything "in house" as Geddy mentioned. It's just another level of respect the three of them have for each other is such an amazing thing to witness.

[@petercollins18]

They just don't make them like those two anymore.

[@andrewkey9401]

Huge part of my life for 45 years and still hanging on every word. Don't need a new Rush, just need Alex and Geddy to be here.

[@michaeironzio7019]

You nailed it buddy 🥁❤️

[@markedward4290]

Exactly!

[@tomasn3666]

Absolutely. These 3 were/are a huge part of my musical life. I started listening to them at an early age in the mid 70's, dove into their music, tried to emulate Neil, and no matter what new genre I'd get into year after year I've always returned to Rush. Like you said, we don't need new, we just need them.

[@tortillasarenotbiceps7622]

Same - 45 years a fan. Hats off to all my fellow Rush fans. I bid you all the best in this one and only life.

[@oneanddone7992]

I saw them perform in 1978 or so when they did the "Hemispheres" tour. Nothing since has even come close to what I saw and heard that night.

[@masecardrums]

"To think you can trick your heart is a foolish endeavor" is one of the wisest things I've heard in ages. Thanks, Ged.

[@kylecollins7195]

beautiful

[@ChewyChicken589]

But the heart can trick you

[@pieyedapple]

...truer words never spoken...

[@TheOlesarge]

@@pieyedapple I caught that and immediately wrote it down. It is terribly poignant.

[@GothJedi]

@@ChewyChicken589That’s why you can’t trick it. It wants what it wants so emotions betray us in the end

[@hamhead2765]

Rush fans not only adore them for their musical prowess. But for their example of friendship and love. The world was (and is) a richer place for Rush manifesting itself.

[@eventhorizon2218]

So true, their humbleness was also a big factor for me. Miss these guys. RIP Neil.

[@aragusea]

This is the interview with these guys I've been waiting for two years to hear.

[@YAMISOOLD2009]

I second that. It was bound to happen and it could not have been done better. They were in a comfortable setting with someone they seem to trust and it felt like we were quietly invited in to a private conversation where they could be real and say what they felt. So glad they did this!

[@kevystead]

No one better than George to Talk about it all with them.

[@JazzTheBass]

Why I Break My Fast on Honey Dew AND Drink the Milk of Paradise

[@figeon]

Just want to let you know your Mac and Cheese recipe slaps.

[@Wayzor_]

Hey man! How's Knoxvegas!

[@johnnyfiveo]

great interview. rather than pining over "what's next for rush?" i simply thank them for the soundtrack of my life.

[@jasonkeith9317]

Me too the soundtrack of my adult life anyway.

[@tortillasarenotbiceps7622]

45 of my 59 years on earth this band was top of the heap. - "Each of us a cell of awareness, imperfect and incomplete."

[@curtisheil1927]

I think that is such a healthy attitude! The art itself is immortalized.

[@paulmoreno6735]

Excellent words!

[@michaelm7116]

hey five o, you cant take pictures here!, got any ID?

[@martyc3447]

Wow. I am 17 years old, a drummer, and a huge fan of Rush, and I just want to say that it is truly a blessing that Geddy and Alex are still here with us, and are still great friends after all these years. Amazing.

[@kenrobinson8667]

You're right 😅

[@coltoncooper170]

Nice I'm a 15 year old bassist and guitarist and absolutely love these guys.

[@P4Eight]

@@coltoncooper170 you and Marty should jam

[@BalokLives]

You couldn't have picked better role models to look up to. These guys are the most intelligent, hilarious, humble, and good people around. If you can manage to be a successful band for 40-50 years and be the best of friends and not have your personality modified in a negative way or become drunks or alcoholics at all after it is over, you have succeeded.

[@stevefarrington5618]

I wonder if geddy would answer if he was called Gary

[@johnhassink6875]

"the last few years have really done a number on hope" - Amen brother

[@xnmcguire]

I am a widow, professional musician, and huge Rush fan. This is the best and most important interview I have ever witnessed, and cathartic for anyone who has experienced the level of grief and trauma. It should be required viewing. There are things that Geddy and Alex discuss in this interview that I don’t think can fully resonate with anyone unless that have experienced it first hand. I can feel the pain, the grief, the trying to find one’s way through the fog. This June will be 5 years since my spouse and music partner of 26 years was suddenly killed by a drunk driver on a night on which we planned on sharing music. Here I was, a 47 year old professional musician (never wanted to do anything else) with our children ages 13 and 11, and completely lost all passion for Music. Some music I couldn’t even bring myself to play for years because of the trauma of loss. For the first few years I was careful to take gigs where I wouldn’t have reminders, but usually if I wasn’t on stage giving it my all, I just hung out in the green room with maybe one or two friends. But I have had experiences where after playing a show, I find myself ugly crying all the way home- and some where gigs triggered full blown PTSD of memories from that first night. Gradually I began finding new experiences and opened up to more kinds of music. Last month a fellow Rush aficionada visited me here in Minnesota from her home of New Orleans. She and I got to jamming (we both are bassist / singers / bouzouki players) and we jammed out some Rush tunes (and even did an impromptu jam of Circumstances and The Sphere). After she left for home, I reflected on the remarkable experience as I had not so freely harmonized with anyone since my spouse /music partner was killed. - and the fact that I was in no way triggered by trauma was remarkable. That whole experience was cathartic. People have told me how impressed they are by my strength in the face of this. Really, there is nothing about which to be impressed. You do not think a out it in the moment, you just do what you need. - it is easy for us to judge ourselves and be our own worst critics about decisions and actions we do while experiencing grief (and trusting up past decisions as humans do (Picard S2E8 🖖) But, the Brain does what it needs to do to survive Grief never goes away, you do not get over it, but it is strands / threads interwoven in the fabric of the Soul. Love ya, Xenia 🤟☮️❤️🌍

[@nomandad2000]

Thanks for sharing

[@randallreece3636]

If not for dying I wouldn't go on, but forward I go, for only in forward do I find my next breath.

[@comedianmattrossey]

So fuckin true Xenia! Sorry to hear about your husband. I hope you're doing better each day, it does take time. I lost my dad at 8. Losing him then was difficult, but the circumstances of how it happened and the outcome that dragged on with trying to get justice served took years and tore our family apart on both sides. I was a kid and just wanted what was left of my family to get along. At 40 I stopped dragging the pain and anger around and finally reached the point where I could move on. It wasn't until then that I was capable of having any long term relationship with someone. I ended up pulling up the roots I made in Vancouver and moved to Toronto (Canada). Life really changed for me. 6 months after moving I started a relationship that ended up in marriage. We've been together for 10 years now, married for 5 years, 7 months now, and I'm in a much better place mentally and emotionally than I have ever been since I was 8. Loss of a loved one is a hard thing to deal with in any situation. I think it's even more difficult if it happens at the hands of another person. Finding peace with death caused by another person or people seems to throw chaos and anger into the mix that sometimes takes years, even a lifetime, to get over. Some never get over it. What I found was always best to do was immerse myself in the things I LOVED TO DO, which I did. I was a musician, a very accomplished Stage Tech, Instrument Tech, Stage Manager, who toured the world with countless acts, some who became great friends and more to this very day, I became a Stand Up Comedian eventually and did that for 10 years until the move to Toronto, then life changed and so did priorities. When we lose someone we love, we should surround ourselves with love, either family, friends, or the things we love in life, to get through the loss and pain that comes from it. That seems to be the only way to truly heel ourselves along with finally reaching the point when we realize we don't have to let go of the love that's gone, we just have to nurture the love we still have, and that includes the love we still have for the person who is no longer with us physically. I've said for years that as long as the people that are gone are still in your heart and thoughts, they are never truly gone, and I stand by that with all the life left in me. Love to you Xenia, it takes time to heal a heart as it does a wound, eventually it heals and you'll have a scar to remind you of the person you still love deeply, and that's ok. That's just a reminder from that person, that they are a part of you still. Matt - Toronto, Canada

[@fabrikk60]

My favourite band in the world is King Crimson, but when my beloved Mom was killed by a car, I could not listen to them for a couple of years or so. So much of their music is dark/heavy/avant, and I suddenly felt unable to take that. So instead I listened to a lot of escapist psych/ambient/new age-y stuff, pretty light and unchallenging, just trying to keep myself numbed in the healthiest way I knew how. When I could finally enjoy Crimson again - I won't say I was "healed" because one never truly is - but at least I knew I'd passed through some kind of wall and had become myself again.

[@gdb99238]

I hope it's gets better with time Xenia. My wifes first wife was killed by a drink driver 28 years ago. She's recently got over Breast Cancer. Thanks for your story. I am now going to watch this interview on my big screen. Darrell

[@KenL414]

It's like having two of my oldest friends stop by for a visit. I genuinely adore these guys, miss Neil terribly, and couldn't get enough of this. Love the interview - just a great conversation with two wonderful, fascinating, warm, genuine people. Thanks for posting.

[@TheStromboShow]

Thanks for watching Ken!

[@angelone1839]

Miss Neil laughing in the background lol.

[@bitter37]

Met Geddy at a book signing he did in 2019 and he was so humble and kind. Stood up as he was signing, looked you in the eye…. One of the highlights of my life.

[@kenrobinson8667]

I too adore the guys, music was elevated for me by this band.

[@raymondjones4390]

Right? It feels like they are friends you know. I love these guys.

[@jedw]

Alex and Geddy are the ultimate friendship goal. 50-odd years together still making each other laugh.

[@dallasmcinroy4789]

Still getting wasted together hahaha

[@alex0589]

Being stoked to be able to go to dinner together again after doing that many tours is almost insane. Really beautiful friendship, very rare.

[@michaelloder5150]

These 2 are Brother’s in Life !! 😎😎😎

[@geneksenzakovic6091]

It's a great thing, while most of my friends from that time have drifted away, one is always there for me and I for him.

[@Kgio-2112]

And why wouldn't they?

[@stevecampitelli8929]

The best thing about listening to Geddy and Alex is that they are clearly best friends

[@pcisme1813]

I cried when Neil died. It surprised me, honestly. Hearing of Neil's last days and Alex and Geds grief made me cry again. I didn't know this band affected me like this. I don't know them. I didn't know Neil. Yet here I am watching this with tears streaming down my face. I love Rush.

[@Zneiero]

It sucks, Im going through a similar see my two parents die before my very eyes. It is truly a terrible ordeal

[@yvesroy01]

Same here man. I was 14 when I discovered them... Now I'm 54! With me all my life.

[@yopacific]

Yes, the feelings are very real.

[@stephenmiller2337]

It's all good. They're good guys, and Neil's words were so universal and deeply affecting. His words helped me in so many ways.

[@BaconFire]

As a long time Rush fan, this interview is enough for me. Meaning, whether or not they play together is NOT what I'm looking for. Its more of these two "brothers" moving forward and how they are finding the strength and starting new paths. I've realized Rush is special to me because of their brotherhood - the music is just a lifelong, magical by-product of their relationship. So proud of Geddy and Alex. You guys keep up the good fight and thanks for the interview. :)

[@kenrossy9141]

Very well said!!💯

[@chrisspringer2744]

Yup. At the end of the day, we’re just looking at lifelong friends.

[@bradlerh]

@@chrisspringer2744 That's a great way of putting it Chris.

[@markandersen5187]

Absolutely...this was 'New Rush' for me...45min of joy...hearing some new bits about their past...and the new things going on in their lives...and they still get drunk together! Just an epic brotherhood✌

[@tortillasarenotbiceps7622]

I'm not ashamed to say I wept a couple times listening to them talk about Neil. It just takes you back through phases of your life and the recollective memoir you compile in your mind of instances that brought such happiness and growth to your life. How that doesn't impact a mind is beyond me.

[@robbeck67]

"My 2 sons are older than I am actually" Lerxst the comic

[@AceNinja2112]

Alex and Geddy need to release those jam tapes before they're lost forever!

[@brandonjohnson8895]

I could seriously listen to these guys talk for hours and be 100% engaged the whole time. Such incredible musicians

[@you2ubesucksbeyond]

My thoughts exactly.

[@FranzKellermann]

Incredible musicians and human beings.

[@stevehatcher7700]

Pulled along by such an incredible interviewer. Geddy even says it at the end, "no one better for us to talk to than you".

[@lucabrasi5070]

Yes. A wonderful combination of interesting, funny, intelligent, and honest. It’s the Canadian in them. They will always be friends and we will always be fans.

[@natashanyxx9486]

I genuinely love those guys. I cried like a baby when Neil died. It feels rather silly to care so much about people that you have never met, but their music has touched my life in ways that are absolutely unique to them. They never fail to express their humanity and humility.

[@johnrackiewicz286]

Agreed Rush =the GOAT

[@hyperionsix]

Don't think yourself silly Natasha. You stated the reasons of what made you emotional to the point of crying. I'm a grown man, etc. and Neil's passing hit me hard. I grew up with that band. I get where you are coming from.

[@pablocruise678]

DAMN STRAIGHT!!!!

[@mcasteel2112]

@@hyperionsix im 55 and i cried. Was tough.

[@dancampbell9151]

Ripped the words right out of my mouth my friend. I am not ashamed to admit that I bawled my eyes out as well to hear the sad news of Neil. It was a dark day indeed - but it would have been the same had any of them had passed. Long live RUSH!

[@CtrlAltDelite]

Thanks Strombo for letting us hang out with Al and Ged with you. Well done

[@teddykgb9971]

Am I the only one welling up watching this? Clearly, I couldn't fully grieve the loss of Neil without hearing Geddy and Alex talk about it.

[@dukeviking]

I'm there with ya Teddy.

[@JF-kv1gm]

Yeah, it's an emotional viewing. Taylor's passing (although very different cause etc.) upset me greatly and part of that was due to his friendship with the Rush family. Neil's passing is still hurting (partly as I was already grieving the loss of my brother 6 weeks' earlier).

[@michaelzilkowsky2936]

want a cookie?

[@teddykgb9971]

@@JF-kv1gm I just lost a friend of mine a few weeks ago, who was a big rock fan - so I'm sure that's factoring into it.

[@teddykgb9971]

@@michaelzilkowsky2936 I vil splaesh de pot in my club wheneva da fock I pleez

[@Lerxst24]

My Dad took my to my first concert in 2015 and that was RUSH. I told him I wanted to learn to play guitar after the show. I did just that. I have been playing for about 8-9 years now. When I started to become advanced on the axe my dad at 59 years old picked up the sticks and starting drumming again. The last time he played the drums was over 30 years ago and the reason why he started was because of Neil. When he told me I inspired him to start playing again you can’t imagine how much joy that brought me knowing that my dad looks to me just as he looked to Neil in his early years or how I look to Alex today. We jam together now and I wish I could thank Neil, Alex, and Geddy personally for inspiring both me and my dad to play music. As it’s the best memories I have with him❤️. This interview was amazing and very well mannered. Thank you for it ❤

[@Dee-x9f]

So beautiful to read this... and to think of the fathers and sons who bonded through this band's music. (Moms and daughters, too. We female Rush fans are out there!)

[@Moobaloo]

This is probably the definitive post-Peart Rush interview. That was amazing. It honestly felt like closure. George is one of the best interviewers around and this might be his best one yet. So grateful to have seen it.

[@progordie]

💔

[@CBTnVVT]

For those of us who are long time Rush fans, thanks for this wonderful conversation with Geddy and Alex. This really was a gift. 👍🏼

[@francoisregis2155]

Its always fun to see Alex and Geddy and old interviews with Neil Rush is my fix

[@barriesmith8296]

Here. Here..

[@MrRacine67]

Man, these guys are real treasures. Humble, honest, true to themselves as artists and individuals, and also a beautiful example of unconditional friendship. Best wishes for these two legends. And eternal peace for the unforgettable Neal Peart.

[@chrispolzine5836]

I’m 26 years old and connect with Rush more than any other contemporary Band/Musician/Artist. I always find an opportunity to share their talent and perspectives with friends my age. Long live Rush!

[@cfdemarco2]

That's awesome brother!

[@stephnicole3078]

I’m 27 and I feel the exact same way. I truly feel like my life has been enriched by having Rush be a part of it. Always glad to see more people my age who have the same reverence for the band that I do. It’s our job to keep Rush alive long after their last show, so the more fans the better.

[@swingforthefences7439]

That's awesome to hear. Us old school Rush fans are very very pleased to see that this band is still finding a new young audience year after year, decade after decade.

[@generay6807]

Keepin it alive. Thanks for carrying the torch Chris and Stephnicole

[@chriserickson6099]

I'm 23 years old, my dad introduced me to Rush back in 2010 and he took me to see them on their Clockwork Angels tour in 2012. My first concert I ever went to and it was Rush. I've got some real bragging rights there lol

[@dejonnaissed1236]

Strombo is such a great "interviewer" - it's not even an interview, but a wonderful conversation. He always gets his guests to open up and relax, and he makes it look so easy.

[@bobnorton3713]

Too bad no one has ever heard of a Greek nobody with a lisp

[@pageluvva]

Great comment. I totally agree.

[@nickavenoso7851]

Yeah. They seems so comfortable with him. I haven’t many interviews where the guys are so open like this.

[@RFXLR]

Rush has the status and fan base every band dreams of. They’re not just a great band, they’re a legendary band with a rabid and loyal following and there will be no other like them.

[@joeking6309]

An intelligent conversation of intelligent musicians. A breathe of fresh air compared to most interviews.

[@richardbruno3191]

100% And they never lost their Souls. So thankful for that.

[@snowballed4]

UK Rush fan here. That was one of the most least sensationalist, most thoughtful interviews regarding Rush that I can remember. I was transfixed, and inspired.

[@garylee3229]

I listen to Rush every night on KZbin. Watch live concerts over anything on television. I still get people asking me if Geddy and I are related. Just love listening to you speak and play your instruments. I still shed a tear thinking about Neil. I’m 64. You guys are still my favourite band. 🇨🇦🫶

[@whiskeycreammedia]

"Life, post-Neil, is still fresh." I don't think life after Neil Peart will ever seem like it once was. Geddy and Alex deserve enormous praise for their courage and class with this interview, and Strombo...keep up this fine work.

[@willallen7757]

Neil died on my birthday . It changed me, he was a clarion.

[@dondrysdale7297]

thanks--i think what Neil would tell us right now is just that; that living in the now is the thing of supreme value, and that has been a big struggle for me in my own life. it's probably why Neil Young wrote 'Comes A Time.'

[@angelainamarie9656]

The world just isn't right is it

[@milo963]

"Caress of Steel" side two is probably one of my favorite pieces of music. Thanks for decades of listening pleasure guys!

[@cronicscream]

Agreed. Its far better than most give it credit for.

[@jb1934]

38 years after I bought that record, I only listened to side 2 properly for the first time on spotify last month. what i once dismissed as meh is indeed a remarkable piece of music. but what hasn't changed is that i'm still amazed the label and the producer agreed to let them record it.

[@FazMaTaz]

I completely agree. It’s a masterpiece.

[@SigmaStoicGemini]

The Necromancer and The Fountain of Lamneth are among the best in the Rush Canon for sure. Steel is my favorite album aside from the 1st album. Even "I Think I'm Going Bald" rocks!!

[@milo963]

@@SigmaStoicGemini The down and dirty part of "Here Again" was playing when your noticed popped up, Cheers.

[@chadlecraft4971]

Rush - I can’t articulate how much their music influenced my life as a teenager in the 80’s.

[@DrJ-hx7wv]

You and me both

[@fequalsmanotbeliefs]

such a magnificent and huge part of my life for 45 years

[@tonyjohnson3134]

“And they’re delicious!” I laughed my ass off at that. Also, the thought I had at the end of the interview was “Man, I wish I had a friendship like those two have!” Such an amazing blessing and the rare combination of friends who come together to change the world and generate magic. ❤️

[@TheStromboShow]

Well said.

[@AslansAngel1]

@Tony Johnson Leave it to Alex. I had called my daughter in because she's a "birder" too. We both burst out laughing when Alex said, "And they're delicious!" Alex and Geddy DO have a beautiful friendship.

[@kjrimple]

This was a very serious interview about grief and loss. I know it probably didn't plan on going this way, but it really puts Alex and Ged wrestling with Neil's death in a very deeply human light. I love these guys, thank you both for sharing even though it was probably one of the hardest interviews you've done.

[@dondrysdale7297]

these guys aren't the type who had ever had to go to Alcoholics Anonymous or something like it, and us that have found that a big part of growing up is accepting that shit happens and it's usually beyond our own power.

[@TYoungPhDRRT]

Just seeing this in 2024. Thank you guys. The music of Rush has sustained my for 57 years. It has touched me, inspired me, and given me hope. Rush has made an impact on millions that no other band has ever done. All the best!!

[@JaysonSherlock]

Ged really let his guard down in this interview. This was beautiful. Watching this helps all of us to heal after Neil's passing. Somehow, I truly believe all Rush fans in a way, know each of the guys. Rest in peace Mr Peart, we love you Ged and Alex.

[@leonardodic3po607]

If you read between the lines, Geddy still sees Alex as his best friend, but he isn't interested in what Alex is doing musicially. That's the reason they haven't played together.

[@robburgess4556]

I love the way George interviews. It's not a bunch of bullet point questions, he sits and talks and listens(!) to his guests.

[@Deuce_Allan]

He listens and absorbs with care

[@LoriTalbot-du2qt]

I lost my brother to the same kind of cancer Neil had. He was given a year but only lasted a couple of months. When I heard Neil passed the same way it brought it all back again. I know how my brother suffered and I wouldn't wish it on anyone.

[@custosnocte1528]

So sorry for your loss, my friend. God Bless You and Your Family. May Peace and Happiness remain within you all the days of your life.❤

[@TheErik249]

I watched this yesterday. I was crying when Geddy was explaining how he felt when Neil was dying. Both of them will never truly get over that. All of us fans will never get over losing Neil. But we will be here for eachother. RUSH will never die. Once those three great men came together and called themselves RUSH... it was chiseled in stone. 🤘RUSH FOREVER!🤘

[@mommafreddy]

I'm a relatively new fan. My stepdad, born in '62, grew up with Rush. Huge fan. So I've grown up listening to Rush. As an adult, I've grown to love and admire Rush, as a band and as people. They are genuine, honest, and you can feel the emotions. Rush is truly 1 of a kind.

[@kenrobinson8667]

I was born in 63 Rush is Great

[@ericvance2859]

Lovely stuff Michelle! Thank you for sharing with all of us. ✌️❤️🥂 from ‘70.

[@doodlebob3758]

I'm an early 20s dude from the same cloth. These guys are more than worth their salt. Rush is immortal for very good reason.

[@olivertoeknuckleiii2093]

Rush- I know you will never see this message, but I will send it anyway. Geddy- Thank you. Thank you for making your mark. For bringing your family out of the brink of disaster. You have achieved everything Hitler tried to take away. What a blessing! You’re family escaped the utmost in horrors in WWII. And you somehow met Alex and Neil. And something really special happened. God himself must have arranged the meeting. All I could ever tell you is that you have absolutely no idea on how big the impact of your work had on millions of young minds. Thank you. And we know- you didn’t spread YOUR message to the world, you spread THE message to the world. Thank you.

[@mrbass1310]

Humble, modest, deep caring gentlemen. i just love these guys and everything they represent as musicians and humans. And don't forget the greatest band on the planet.

[@Rumination_Vertex]

No doubt!

[@thehawk05]

Greatest thing to me about this interview: You don’t need to be a fan of Rush, of Geddy, Alex or Neil to appreciate it because there are words of wisdom shared here that folks from all walks of life can benefit from. And let’s also give George his due here as well. He has a wonderful gift of making an interview not feel like an interview at all but as a group of friends sitting around a table having a natural, flowing conversation that just happens to be captured for us to enjoy. He’s so thoughtful with his words and how he carries himself…….it’s beautiful stuff. Thank you for this❤

[@julien2231]

Excellent interview, full of friendship, meaning, heart and thoughtfull. This is the kind of stuff i was missing from them.

[@edvedder7835]

I was gutted when Neil passed. As you get older the people that you grew up knowing, reading and listening to, passing on reminds us of our own own immortality. Neil was that reminder for me times a factor of 10. The soundtrack of my life.

[@davidce3rash]

Same here. Neil is greatly missed by all.

[@mightymartianca]

Kind of amazing. Geddy is still the front man, and Alex still adding texture without overwhelming the gig.

[@zachsmith3]

Haha! Brilliant analogy. Absolutely brilliant

[@bitter37]

We’ll said

[@lemmehithatnyc461]

While I can't pretend a stranger is a long-awaited friend, I could say that I've had Neil, Alex, and Ged in my life since childhood in the 70s. Like wise uncles that teach you from afar yet you've never actually met in person. This interview, in a way, was like a family reunion of sorts--reliving the past, grieving over the loss of that one great uncle, and discussing what might come next.

[@j_freed]

Neil is so funny, he was very self-critical of that ‘long awaited friend’ line in Limelight. Everyone digs it. And surely we all bonded with one or another Rush album that spoke to us, that comforted us as growing youths and maybe even inspired us to dream.

[@revolutionradiocanada]

I could say a million things about Rush. I just love these guys. And I terribly miss Neil.

[@Hannsfeld]

At least Neil got to participate with Rush's induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. It's a favorite clip of mine to watch the audience in attendance raise the roof from the first moment the band from Toronto was mentioned. Rest in peace Neil. We miss you.

[@mcriscione]

It just feels good to see how genuine their friendship is. Great interview!

[@MiningMyBusiness]

Its so evident

[@MiningMyBusiness]

❤️

[@richardmountz3865]

For now and forever let it be known Caress Of Steel is a part of the core of the heart of Rush and of all eternal Rush fans. To me it was never weak. Even more it was a portrait Rush painted for us to look deep into and enjoy, a milestone of many. Mainstream media failed to see the amount of respect this offering deserved.

[@fredtello]

caress of Steel Rush love

[@thebenefactor6744]

The opening to Bastille Day is the greatest musical composition to ever come out of my country.

[@andrewebrey9334]

Precious Indeed

[@srficarra]

I agree. Great album. I would say it’s probably one of my top five favorite Rush albums. They don’t seem very proud of it but they should be. There’s some great playing on that album from all three. I wasn’t too crazy about a lot of their 80’s stuff with the over the top keyboards. They still had great songs during that era but the albums were not good from beginning to end. My favorite era was from “fly by night” to “moving pictures”. But the albums got really good again from “counterparts” till the very end. All time great band and a favorite of mine growing up and till this day

[@paulvalentine3440]

I agree! Caress is a beast! No One At The Bridge, Panacea, Bacchus Plateau, Bastille Day, Lakeside Park. Just wonderful.

[@garylagstrom3864]

The TERRY BROWN years of RUSH(74-82) are not only my favorite part of era of the band but I call that the SUPERIOR PERIOD!

[@davidgraham3854]

Caress of Steel was one of my favorite albums by Rush. Amazing album

[@colinstewart1432]

Dark but Compelling.

[@davidpaterson3443]

Absolutely! Caress of Steel is actually one of their very best albums, along with Farewell and Hemispheres. Geddy should appreciate it instead of hating it.

[@cosmicman621]

@@davidpaterson3443 ...one of first Rush albums...would put it in my top 4 Rush albums.The emotional..philosophical sincerity of..The Fountain.....makes it a unique Rush masterpiece.I think the general rejection of that album..wounded the entire band...and because they had made ..COS..with such heartfelt artistic expression,perhaps they carried the wounding from the rejection it received...especially when they were at such a young age...they carried that wounding later on down their collective career.

[@CHodgy]

LISTEN!!!!!!

[@paulvalentine3440]

Yep. Straight up!!!!

[@SPRPhilly]

I've been a Rush fan for something like 45 years. I've seen countless interviews, documentaries and the like and I've never until now heard Geddy say "fuck."

[@hamhead2765]

Strombo is just the best at interviewing. His sincerity is right up front.

[@diaphanoux]

Words don't exist yet to describe this interview. Perfect questions and interaction.

[@SquirrelTheater]

Rush is the only band I’ve ever seen live that could reproduce the exact sound of their albums. Three of the most talented musicians, songwriters and composers EVER. Not to mention that Neil was primarily responsible for some of the best song lyrics ever written.

[@themechaniacal1558]

Geddy and Alex, I cannot express how much I love you guys and Neil. You helped me get through my childhood and you have been there for me time and again. I owe you more than I could ever repay. Bless you, and thank you.

[@Augfordpdoggie]

me too Neil inspired me to play the drums, to travel to Africa, where i now live as a musician. Here is my hommage to the Professor. Kilebu-Neil Peart kzbin.info/www/bejne/iKSbi597mLSomck

[@chiefbrody75]

If you're not a Rush fan you have no idea of the connection fans have with these guys: They're like family. These 3 guys putting their friendship before anything else is what separates them from other bands, and Ged and Al's obvious continued friendship proves that. I can honestly say you'd be hard pressed to find another band with the allegiance and love Rush fans have, and will always have. Thanks for the GREAT interview!!

[@carpenoctem775]

What I like about Rush is they were just regular guys, geeky guys, who made cool music. They never tried being badasses, or other cliche rock star bullshit.

[@traviskeeler4533]

"No one better for us to talk to than you!" Could there ever be a better compliment than that? I think not. And it is 100% valid. Nobody interviews like you do Strombo. It is like watching a dentist extract a tooth....but you are pulling out painful emotions instead...emotions that NEED to come out...but your style and grace act as an anaesthetic. Well done sir. well done.

[@ianhamilton396]

Time, I'm eternally grateful Rush played my high school in Kingston Ontario in 1974. It was loud and I'm one of the lucky ones.

[@flapjackson6077]

If your being truthful, that’s indeed a classic moment!!!

[@ianhamilton396]

@@flapjackson6077 18.02.1974 - LaSalle Secondary School, Kingston Ontario. It was cold AF, I helped to carry their gear in and out of the auditorium.

[@ScotchTape]

These guys shaped my teenage years and beyond. This is the best interview I’ve ever seen. Thanks Strombo, really. Emotional and very therapeutic.

[@4spbiz]

I'm 59 years old I've been loving rush since I was about 14 years old. And I just got tears in my eyes because of hearing the two of you who are brothers in Rock Brothers in life and brothers who lost another brother say that one day you would play together again whether it ever goes into recording again or not. Thank you so much both of you for your hard work and creating amazing Sonic experiences and for partnering with one of the most extraordinary people.

[@TheChef470]

I remember driving on 93 North,Concord,NH when I heard of Neil's passing. I had to pull over and just weep. Neil's lyrics brought me through so many tough times in my young life to imagine life without him was a real "gut" punch.

[@Awake2Evil]

How lucky can a person be. to grow up with somebody from your childhood. work together your entire life, and still have the deepest love, respect and admiration for each other. it's just a perfect example of how we all should be with one another. It's just a beautiful thing to watch, when I watch these guys. ❤

[@nathanstevens259]

Seeing these two together makes my heart smile. The brutal honesty here is something you don't hear from most celebrities, and that's why they are two thirds of the greatest band of all time. Rush were always true to themselves, they did it their way even from day one with John Rutsey. This is a band that stood the test of time and continues to do so. Ged mentioned 70% of youth listening to older records like theirs more than new music, I am proud to be a 16 year old who is a small part of that 70%.

[@guystix]

Even though these guys are “celebrities,” they never feel like it. They’ve been around so long in a lot of our lives, they seem like friends, which speaks a lot to their apparent humility.

[@theartofhavoc5467]

"My two sons are older than I am, actually" - God, I love this guy.

[@jimfry2748]

Hearing Geddy and Alex talk about the grieving process touched me like you couldn’t believe, I lost the love of my life in August of 2023 to the exact same thing neil died from, glioblastoma, she was only 50 years old, like Neil they gave her 18 months, sadly she was gone in only 4 months, it was so fast and so shocking, the emotions I’m going thru are exactly what Geddy and Alex are describing, we knew each other for 35 years and I don’t think I’ll ever get over it, you never do, you just learn to accept it and live in as Geddy described a “post” world without them, the music of Rush is one of the things that is getting me thru this, thanks so much for this interview, it’s helped me more than you’ll ever know! Peace and thanks!

[@davidstevens5682]

A wonderful, gentle and intelligent conversation. Calling this an interview really doesn’t do it justice. This is the first time since Neil’s passing that I felt both Geddy and Alex have some closure on their loss. Very open about their feelings, with some excellent and meaningful questions, a joy to watch, thank you from yet another life long Rush fan.

[@cronejawford978]

Not to combat your sentiment, but I'm gonna propose Geddy and Alex have already made peace with the reality of Neil's passing well before they "made their feelings public". They had years to prepare whereas the public has not. BTW - There is no "closure" to a loved one's death. That space is always going to be there. That said, they both seem to be living with it (as always, per their fans ) with grace, intelligence and integrity - and continuing to share their sense of humor.

[@polbecca]

@@cronejawford978 I definitely got the impression that Alex has moved on slightly more easily than Geddy. Not that they don't have different outlooks and obsessions, but Geddy was the one who sang all of Neil's lyrics. Their body language is different: Ged sat relaxed in his chair, animated, but still very protective with his arms crossed much of the time, while Alex was upright but open.

[@stevenhunter3345]

No one loves Rush more than I do, and no one wants to hear some new music from Geddy and Alex more than I do. But as fans, I think we have to realize that they don't owe us anything. They've given us more than four decades of their absolute best, and whatever comes next has to be what they want. It should be on their terms and what they want to happen, not because of any pressure from fans. If Ged just wants to watch birds with his grandson then God bless him. I appreciate everything they've given us and want only the best for them.

[@bitter37]

You can see how much these guys love each other. Literally brings tears to my eyes.

[@samcrittenden3556]

Just want to express my heartfelt gratitude to you, Mr. Strombo. I’ve watched several interviewers, generally, try in earnest but never really move beyond the attempt itself. Your ability to constantly tap into a stream of genuine emotion and intrigue never fails to amaze, especially with two musicians whose talent and body of work have meant so much. Thank you.

[@Guitargate]

The different kind of confidence from winning vs making mistakes is just so damn true. What a great, great thing you added Strombo!

[@bdpyne]

This one stuck out for me as well. Brilliant observation.

[@DeanMichaud]

I will certainly retain and repeat these all-too-wise words for the rest of my life - it's pure truth.

[@WinstonTexas829]

It is a profound observation. Much food for thought.

[@johng2880]

Thing is, their previous release was Permanent Waves, which was a "win", and their turning point record that pivoted from the longer, prog-like Hemispheres (also a big W) to the shorter, more concise Moving Pictures, their biggest win. I'd say that, by the time they released MP, they'd been winning for quite some time.

[@Carlos-xz3vi]

Just heard this as I read this. Incredibly smart.

[@RavenTwoSix.]

Rush spans my whole life. They were always there. I was/am so proud of them as fellow Canadians. They are such great ambassadors for us to the world. Brilliant music. Thank you guys so much. Rip Neil.

[@dankaufman6054]

46 minutes of pure joy for me. I could listen to these guys all day. In a way, it helps me deal with the grief losing Neil.

[@nickormondroyd3674]

They have been the soundtrack to my life for 46 years love these guys

[@stephenmiller2337]

When Geddy said that "Life post Neil is still fresh", I broke into tears. I had the great pleasure of meeting Geddy and Alex twice on separate occasions, but I never met Neil, and yet his lyrics affected my life in so many ways that when I heard of his passing, I was in tears.

[@bradydastrup1025]

This interview displays why I’ve been in love with this band since I was 14 years old. The lack of pretension, self-service and ego is just amazing. Thank you for the interview and thank you for the music, Geddy, Alex and Neil.

[@edbroadbent7094]

George has ALWAYS been an incredible interviewer. From MuchMusic to his own show...He always asks the right things and always showed respect no matter WHO it was

[@leonardodic3po607]

George tends to inject a little too much "George" into his interviews, talking about his own feelings and experiences (which aren't really that interesting). It wasn't a problem in this interview, since he is obviously such a huge fan of Rush that he really seemed to want to hear what Alex and Geddy had to say, but it's an unwanted distraction in many of his other interviews.

[@edbroadbent7094]

@@leonardodic3po607 Not disagreeing with you but I find that he OPENS people up with just being a normal person. Even if it takes him using his own experiences as an example

[@duanevigue1603]

@@leonardodic3po607 Completely agree. I absolutely cant stand the way he "interviews" most of the time, but being a huge RUSH fan for 35+ years, I had to watch this.

[@trenthogan4212]

I agree, George is one of the best.

[@RidersInBlack]

Strombo. A class act from head to toe. As important and influential as the artists he interviews.

[@ScorpionF1RE_USA]

Probably the sweetest thing about Neil's drumming was how he could hit the drums fifteen-hundred times in a song, and not smother, or detract, from the song. And he did it tastefully and beautifully, more-so than anyone else.

[@kennytesta9312]

That’s exactly right, he cold play along the spine of a song and embellish the body.

[@torianholt2752]

And build that around these two

[@TheStromboShow]

Can't wait to share this interview with you. While we wait...what was the Rush song that made you a fan and why? 🎤

[@michaelgilson2069]

Although I knew of them and their big hits to that point were all over the radio, it wasn't until I was 18 and heard "Red Barchetta," on the LP on after buying it (I wanna say at a Miracle Mart), that I became a fan for life. The way the instruments ease in and come together before the first verse gave me shivers and still does. And the science-fictional future world where cars are outlawed was just too cool. I first saw the band that spring of 1981, at the Montreal Forum show that was immortalized on "Exit. . . Stage Left," and saw them a dozen or so times after that, right up to the final tour. They are integral to my musical upbringing and life and a national treasure.

[@trevorvincent1168]

Tom Sawyer was the first Rush song I had heard. At 10 years old, in 1981, it made a real impression on me. I had never heard anything like it and it was much different to anything I had heard up until that point. I shortly bought my first album, Moving Pictures, with my paper route money and it started a Love affair with this band I have had ever since. 40 years later, countless concerts and I can still enjoy Moving Pictures like back in 1981.

[@brianleonard9872]

Fly By Night

[@MisterX88888]

Big Money was the first Rush song I heard when flipping channels and saw the video on MuchMusic. Couldn't believe the sounds I was hearing that was coming from just 3 guys. Was hooked ever since.

[@msmoniz]

I was born in 74 so I really became aware of Rush in their 80's era. First song I really remember from them that hooked me was Distant Early Warning. I remember then borrowing Hold Your Fire on cassette from the public Library a few years later. Then as I started high school, A Show of Hands came out. Then Presto followed. And then Chronicles. Those 3 tapes were on heavy rotation on my Walkman through out high school. Then came Roll the Bones. My second ever concert was the opening show of the RTB tour at Copps Coliseum in Hamilton Oct 25, 1991, 5th row floor in front of Geddy! As a 17 year old RUSH geek, I sang back every word to Geddy, which in my memory I swear I caught his eye and he kinda smiled/smirked like"how is this kid singing every word back to songs that are probably as old as he is!?" LOL. Yeah RUSH run deep in my psyche for the Hammer hoser!

[@Philmein2]

That was the most genuine and interesting interview I have seen in a long time. Geddy and Alex truly love one another and miss Neil dearly as we all do.

[@garyw4211]

Shows George's respect that he didn't bring up Taylor. But I'm sure glad Gedde did. To hear them speak so highly of him brought tears to my eyes. What a great interview.

[@batman1169]

Dave Grohl would have welled up when the guys talked about Taylor. I hope he watches this or gets forwarded to him.

[@leonardodic3po607]

@@batman1169 I think Dave Grohl is doing a lot of soul searching at the moment about how he was unable to stop this from happening in either of the 2 bands that span his musical career. Not saying it's his fault in any way - people are ultimately responsible for themselves - but he must be thinking about whether there might have been more he could have done to try to head it off.

[@johnburger7098]

I agree with Strombo's sense of "Caress". I loved it.

[@olaoluwaafolayan6554]

This was an excellent interview! I loved how candid Alex and Geddy were here! They really come across as just normal dudes and not the typical rockstar stereotypes.

[@alejandrososa5146]

Pound for pound, they were the most instrumentally-talented rock band of all time.

[@squinugie2091]

As well as producing the soundtrack to my life, reading Neil's book Ghost Rider provided such comfort to me when I lost my wife at a similar age and it is the only book I have ever read several times. Three hugely talented and very humble guys who will never know the impact they have had on so many peoples lives.

[@robg8784]

So Sorry for your loss and I loved reading ghost Rider also Really felt him on that journey.

[@dHolbach77]

I am sorry to hear about your loss, but I'm glad Neil helped you through it. Ghost Rider also helped me deal with my mother's early death, though it came out much later. Rush's music, and a *lot* of philosophy, also really helped. "The dark background which death supplies brings out the tender colors of life in all their purity." - George Santayana

[@JigOfTheDubGopher]

Ghost Rider saved me over the loss of my wife too.

[@Darylrb1983]

Same when my daughter passed

[@mlnem2k]

@@JigOfTheDubGopher Someday, that's my plan too. Just waiting on her . ;o)

[@SoCal780]

That was a great interview. Very revealing and very honest. Geddy was right, time is limited and it’s up to you as to how you wish to spend it. Spend it wisely. Also, keeping Neil’s diagnosis a secret and how he felt about being dishonest to others about it, but “screw” the honesty, his loyalty to his friend came first. As shocked as we all were to hear of Neil’s passing at the time, I respect Geddy’s and Alex’s loyalty to Neil. That kind of friendship, brotherhood, love, and loyalty is something that you simply cannot buy. If you have people in your life that are like that, cherish them, because they are NOT easy to find. I will love these guys until my last dying breath…

[@davidkrappenschitz1424]

Their partnership, as solid as it is and has been for nearly 60 years... it's unheard of in the industry. I think much of that can be attributed to solid parenting from parents who had seen and survived the atrocities of war. As a former paratrooper myself... going through that does something to you, much of it being unpleasant and extremely volatile. And by volatile, I'm meaning that if you don't handle it properly, it can be destructive, tearing your life to pieces. However, the experiences also have a way of enhancing certain qualities / capabilities My mathematical and writing skills improved drastically upon leaving the army. Plus, I left it with a fierce no-fail work attitude that had benefitted me greatly. But over time as the years pass and the post trauma and the realities of "normal people" who are part of "normal life" sets in and goes unaddressed... that's when one can really lose their vision and become isolated. You begin to realize just how different those things made you in comparison to those who've not experienced such a thing... and the thing is, is that those same people notice it in you. But rather than maybe try to hear you out and understand you, it's much easier just to write you off. In western culture, it's all about the "better you than me" attitude having said all of that, I think Geddy's and Alex's folks raised them in a sort of way that they used their past hardships in a way that was constructive for their development's as children and adults. Neil's family seemed to instill those kinds of values as well being farmers and in the farm equipment business, which would entail living in the more rural regions of Canada where working is what you did. And with that, maintaining good relations with neighboring farms and farmers would mean the difference in success and failure

[@SoCal780]

@@davidkrappenschitz1424 I understand completely. I’m an Army veteran as well. I never saw combat myself (I was in from 82-88, nothing really happened during that time) but I know enough veterans and their stories to understand the hardships that are involved. You’re absolutely right, it’s how YOU handle it yourself that will make or break you. Some manage to get through their experiences fairly well while for others it becomes a lifelong struggle.

[@TheRealcdawg22]

Amen brother.

[@SoCal780]

@@TheRealcdawg22 🙏

[@jpow73]

“No one better for us to talk to than you”. That says it all. Thank you George. And thank you Alex and Geddy....and Neil.

[@aaronsibley]

pretty cool he went thru moving pictures with neil on his show for the 35th anniversary and now geddy and alex for the 40th

[@lahaza6515]

These guys are probably the most utterly likable, genuine rock icons out there.

[@dsholt]

I don't think I've ever heard Geddy speak this freely and openly in an interview. It is a really impressive achievement on the part of the interviewer.

[@prodigyguitar35]

He's one of the best. His interview on his show with Neil Peart 10 years ago says it all. Anyone who could get Neil to open up with sincerity and passion is an excellent interviewer.

[@rogerhickson7256]

@@prodigyguitar35 Geddy says it at the very end..."no one better for us to talk to than you".

[@rb8058]

There is an amazing interview Geddy does with Dan Rather worth checking out. Fewer F bombs, but so many good stories and memories.

[@catguy64]

Geddy Lee watching birds, drinking wine. 😃 I could listen to these guys talk about anything for days. Sure, their music speaks for itself but what I appreciated most early on was their unwavering friendship, humor, and not taking themselves too seriously.

[@813lem]

I absolutely love these people. They have aged but they arent old. Theyre mature and fun. Humble honest and real. Just real.

[@rixvspinner]

Great interview as usual George. I met Alex at the old Beckers convenience store in Thornhill in the 70's. I asked him what he and the guys were working on. He said, Hemispheres then he went on to say it was their most difficult project yet. He was very friendly and appreciates his fans. I'm sure Geddy is the same.

[@dukeviking]

Let's do whatever we can to keep these two safe and with us for another 30 years. It warms my heart to see Ged & Alex together.

[@brianwagner5008]

When your dear friend is sick and you need to keep under wraps you do that for your friend… no questions asked. You’ll be forgiven later. Love this Band and these gents..🤘🤘🤘🤘⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️

[@nov20five]

THIS is the way to do interviews. Relaxed, meaningful, introspective, genuine. Well done!