RUSH-XANADU-REACTION

[@Fred-vy1hm]

Any version of Xanadu is awesome. That said the exit stage left rendition of this tune may be the greatest single live rock performance ever captured on video. 😊

[@coot1925]

Apart from Floyd's comfortably numb from the pulse concert.

[@andrewsauve3774]

This is the best live song ever. Proudly Canadian 🇨🇦 🇨🇦

[@coot1925]

@@andrewsauve3774 proudly British. I'm a massive rush fan too. Been a prog-rock drummer for over 45 years and Niel always will be my hero. It's good to be patriotic towards ones country, although I think the Americans take it too far but I'm not sure exactly what they are so proud of. Maybe because the European settlers kicked us brits out a couple of hundred years ago. Until then they were just Europeans, not Americans. They see that as a victory, we see it as a lucky fucking escape. We have more in common with you canadians than we do with Americans. Be well my rock loving friend. ✌❤🇬🇧

[@Fred-vy1hm]

@@coot1925 I used to think we had more in common with the Americans but since all the maga bs I'm so much more gratified that we are a member of the commonwealth. 😊🇨🇦🇬🇧

[@michaelkeller6223]

Here’s hoping it’s a fad we grow out of quickly!

[@SijoArtLapham6381]

Geddy Lee is the lead singer, bassist and keyboardist and does all three simultaneously live. Alex Lifeson is the amazing guitarist and the drummer, who also writes almost all of the band's lyrics, is Neil Peart, affectionately known as 'The professor' and is considered the best rock drummer ever by many.

[@fretless05]

Occasionally, like in this song, Geddy plays rhythm guitar, too!

[@dirtyoldgrognard6427]

This is a great version but the 1981 live (exit stage left) will blow your mind. RUSH is arguably the best Rock band. Ever.

[@bluesaloon]

The good thing about this video, as opposed to the '81 version, is we see Geddy more on the 12-string of his double-neck.

[@ericfranklin6290]

The very best!

[@SnoBear626]

You never need apologize for grabbing your bass and taking a pass at a riff. I love it!

[@yuvalraveh]

Right? It's one of the best outcomes of listening to music

[@anthonydawson8080]

And crazy someone would criticize for not nailing a Geddy line note for note immediately!

[@5280Comics]

Butcher it or not. pick up the bass.

[@EvilSean62]

took me AGES to learn the bass on this ... few years later got seduced into guitar ,,,,then i thought ... well ... i nailed the bass and it hurt ... lets go ...the intro took me a while and the chords were mercifully standard then the nuances floored me ... i dunno if it was desk work but the tone shifts are mental

[@kevinrittershaus9380]

Been listening to Rush for over 40 years. Three musicians who are very humble and extremely talented. No egos just musicianship.

[@churchboy5827]

I'm definitely impressed.

[@vicenteraira]

I'm sure you gonna be even more and more during the journey through the rabbithole. I don't like tattoos, but if I had to make one, I'd do anything related to Rush. Please try: Limelight, Spirit of Radio, YYZ, BY-Tor and the Snowdog and La Villa Strangiato (studio version)@@churchboy5827

[@SnoBear626]

@@churchboy5827 Huge catalog from Rush.

[@dalecronkwright6990]

That's the Canadian in them

[@charleswagner2984]

​@@churchboy5827Since Buddy Rich passed away, Neil Peart is the undisputed greatest drummer in the world. About a year after Neil passed away, Prog Magazine ran a readers poll. Who are the best musicians in all human history? I can remember that Chris Squire is 11th, Rick Wakeman is 4th, Jimi Hendrix is second. And the greatest musician in the whole human race? WOW! It is Neil Peart. And after seeing Rush a dozen times, yeah, Neil Peart is the greatest musician who ever played music. ❤

[@jeremyhuffman4635]

The live Exit Stage Left version is mind blowing. To see them doing this song, even better, in concert is something to be seen. Another mind blowing song is La Villa Strangiato. An instrumental that truly shows off the talents of these three masters.

[@johncampbell756]

This is an adaptation of "Kubla Khan, Or, A Vision in a Dream: A Fragment," a poem by Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Neil wrote almost all the lyrics once he joined Rush before recording their second album. Their original drummer had to leave for health reasons. Geddy Lee (bass, synths, vocals) and Alex (guitars) had written the words and music for the first album (1974), but were more than happy to keep writing the music, but give the lyrics to Neil. This song is off their fifth studio album, A Farewell to Kings (1977). Neil took a few of the lines from the poem which was about Kubka Khan discovering the pleasure dome abd the caves of ice. He takes that story and makes this song about a man who searches to find Khan's Xanadu. The first verse is about the search. The second verse is about finding Xanadu and Neil's added idea thst consuming the honey and milk of paradise makes him immortal. The third verse is the now immortal man regretting immortality as he is trapped forever in Xanadu for eternity. It has become his prison. He can break free, yet he cannot die. They ate both playing double neck guitars because, at the end, Geddy plays the almost acoustic sounding descending sort of guitar solo. The songs ends with them both furiously strumming guitars and Geddy playing the bass notes with his Taurus bass pedals.

[@peckfamily995]

You have a great radio voice and love the flag in your background. Being a man of faith, I might suggest RUSH Jacobs Ladder and have some great bass to boot.

[@ltdan8969]

Spirit of Radio, Working Man, 2112, Red Barchetta,... welcome to the Rush rabbit hole!

[@williamdemerchant7295]

The 2112 comic book style video. It's only 20+ minutes.🤯

[@jamesgirard1090]

Yes, red Barchetta

[@TheNaznine]

2112 is so underrated the syfy rock opera is so good but don't forget passage to bangkok and twilight zone on side 2 2112 is one of their best Records

[@pendermanager3739]

Greatest band of all time period. RUSH are the nerds of Rock musicianship is on a different level

[@bobkitten8150]

Neil Peart was a student of life! He traveled widely, read voraciously, wrote several books, biked, xc skied, and motorcycled. He studied his craft throughout his life, always wanting to learn more. One of a kind man and talent. For something completely different, check out The Garden from later in their career.

[@Clever01010]

These 3 make everyone speechless! 😉 That's RUSH🇨🇦

[@churchboy5827]

Exactly! I'm definitely enjoying these dudes.

[@Clever01010]

I've watched most reactions channels on RUSH and they all end up with a face like. 😦 Especially their most complicated to play NATURAL SCIENCE

[@AlexRubbo]

Neil Peart aka 'The Professor' (RIP). Check out his drum solo Live in Frankfurt. Also check out Working Man (Live in Cleveland)

[@johncampbell756]

I recommend listening to the studio version of Working Nan first, which is great, in order to understand what makes the Live in Cleveland version so special. Rush rarely changes how they play their songs.

[@vankranchicksr5678]

@@johncampbell756 The only issue with going with the studio version is the drummer was John Rutsey, he would have to listen to the "All the Worlds a Stage" album to listen to Peart

[@johncampbell756]

@@vankranchicksr5678 Oddly, I prefer the Rutsey drumming. Neil changed the style to fit himself, snd I felt it didn't fit the song as well. It's goid to hear Rutsey any to see that he was actually a pretty good player, just not on Neil's level...few are.

[@vankranchicksr5678]

@@johncampbell756 Yes, Rutsey was a really good drummer but I don't think he was able to take Rush to the next level. I think with his medical issues he was having too many problems to go on tour which I understand was one of the main reasons he decided to quit the band.

[@jimtatro6550]

I was a 15 year old school band drummer when I saw my first concert….Rush, (Signals tour). Neil became my biggest inspiration in life from that point on. R.I.P.

[@churchboy5827]

If that guy is your inspiration, I know you are a beasty drummer.

[@BK-oc6lb]

This (Signals tour) was my second concert (saw Van Halen a couple of months before). Tried to go to the MP concert and it was, not surprisingly, sold out!

[@kentgreer1079]

This 'soundstage' version shows how Geddy Lee (Singer, bassist, keyboards) plays bass with his feet when playing keyboards, and Keyboards with his feet when he is playing bass with his hands. Also, Neil Peart, has tubular heels, chimes, croatles, etc. Alex is playing a double neck Gibson with 6 strings on the bottom and twelve on the top. Geddy is playing a Rickenbaker 4080/12 double neck, 4-string bass on top and Rickenbacker's weirdly arranged 12-string on hte bottom. He really only plays the 12-string when Alex does his solo at the end.

[@churchboy5827]

One of these days, I will have a Rick. It is on my bucket list.

[@janfranceschi8458]

I really appreciate your true “recognizing” of Neil Peart’s artistry. There has never been anyone like him.

[@juliebrockett3471]

Great reaction!! These guys are all self taught and couldn’t even read music!! I think you would LOVE “La Villa Strangiato” And maybe “Natural Science” Any version that has been remastered by Stickhits!! Live versions are usually just as good as (if not better) than the studio versions! They are one of the greatest live bands ever to Grace the stage!! They are so tight live, with your eyes closed you can’t tell the difference!! They are all such humble men.. (unfortunately they are mostly agnostic) but you can’t find better humans! Alex Lifeson on lead and bass pedals, Geddy Lee, bass, keys, pedals and vocals, then Neil Peart, the Professor of Percussion!! Looking forward to you enjoying the soundtrack of our lives for over 40 yrs!! Be well and God bless… from Texas!!

[@churchboy5827]

Thank you for watching. I'm definitely enjoying this band.

[@vicenteraira]

Oh, Lord! Natural Science! YEAH!

[@Fred-vy1hm]

Unfortunately? The church is hardly a paragon of moral values and most atheists and agnostics are just free thinkers without the baggage that organized religion brings with it. 🤔

[@juliebrockett3471]

@@idontpitupwithclowns OK, first off I DONT LIE! And this is not the way the RUSH family talk to one another, so you’re obviously not a fan! If you have a problem with something I posted, you can kindly bring it up and if I’m wrong I’ll admit it! What I was referring to was them not reading music. I was referring to the band in the early yrs as they were getting their start! Geddy has NEVER taken guitar lessons and could not read music. He pecked on the piano after his sister Susie had HER piano lessons and discovered he could pick up a lot by rote! Alex took 1 years of Classical guitar lessons in 1972 from a high school friend! He could NOT read music. Neil took lessons a for about a year when he was 14 but mostly beat the covers off of magazines to learn! In 95’ he did “study” with Freddy Gruber (after he’d been playing for 25 yrs) and later with with Peter Erskine in 07’ but they never “played the drums” (Neil quote)! They talked about motion, movement, and the use of time, but Neil (as were all of them) learning all the time! He could NOT read music! We’re talking this was learning by copying what they heard on the radio and practicing their butts off so hard that all 3 dropped out of high school! THEY HAD NO FORMAL MUSIC EDUCATION EXCEPT THE STAGE! That is not to say that over their 50 year career of writing, preforming, producing and recording that they didn’t pick up on how to “read” music! But I was informing this gentleman that they mostly learned from their hero’s on the radio and copying them and practicing!! This has all been fact checked on-line, in Geddy’s book (just released, you should read it) and countless interviews! And I’m a 30 yr fan and saw them 3 times myself in the 80’s! (Which is nothing compared to some RUSH fans with 100’s of shows who will stand by me on this). As for the playing in the key, I swear I read it in the book, but that is 1 fact I have not been able to absolutely confirm. (the book is 500 pgs and I scanned all the way thru, but could not find the part where he said it.. but I’m going to keep looking, cause I swear I read it) if I’m wrong I will relent! Others than that there was nothing in my comment that was an out right lie..!! RUSH fans let me know if I am mistaken! They were all turned off by organized religion and liked to think that their good deeds, positive energy and humbleness would serve them as best as their “religion”! I don’t think anyone will disagree with me there, either! So if you wanna talk about it, we can discuss if anything else I said was “lying”! But true RUSH fans have respect for one another, and politely inform each other, if options differ! So maybe you should take a lesson from the men you think you know so much about! They were respected geniuses and they always strived to be better at what they did and who they were! That’s a good lesson for you to learn! Be well and God bless… from Texas!! (I’ll follow up when I find the passage about the key change and I’ll admit I made a mistake if I can’t find it) #RUSHFAMILY

[@idontpitupwithclowns]

@@juliebrockett3471 I removed my reply. I'm sorry. The online world has ruined my sense of humanity.

[@sarastromseth-troy3323]

For a great Geddy Lee bass solo (and Neil Peart drum solo), I suggest the Live from Dallas version of 'Where's My Thing Here It Is'. Oh, and Geddy Lee's speaking voice is in a normal range. His singing voice also deepened and matured over time. I feel that his most melodic vocals were in the mid-1980s and 1990s. Another live performance that showcases his voice is 'Mission' live from Birmingham 1988.

[@markgagliardi1774]

He’s not a student. He’s the PROFESSOR! Probably the GOAT! My favourite band ever and I know you will love them…you get it. God bless and keep the Rush reactions coming. Remember- 3 guys who happen to best friends and virtuosos on their instruments.

[@markstromberg1148]

In this performance, Neil Peart plays virtually every percussion instrument he can get his hands on - temple blocks, cowbells, bell trees, tubular bells, glockenspiel, windchimes, timbales, and of course, the drum set. Neil Peart's drumming was innovative; no one did what he did before he did it, but after he did it, EVERYONE copied it. AND . . . he wrote the lyrics! The song combines Kublai Khan's palace in Northern China (Xanadu, on the River Alf, is a World Heritage Site) and an unfinished poem by Samuel Taylor Coleridge to tell the story of a quixotic quest for immortality and how, if it were ever attained, it would be a prison, and that what makes life so joyous is its fleeting, ephemeral nature. The character in the song discovers this, but only when it's too late, and he wishes for death. I suggest that you next react to the studio version of the instrumental, "La Villa Strangiato" to see just what sort of compositional depth and musical virtuosity these three men can display. More suggestions to follow!

[@juliebrockett3471]

I always feel like Neil is slipping in the cautionary tale of “Be careful what you wish for.. you might just get it”! He does it in a few different songs! Master of words!! God bless my friend… from Texas!

[@brilof2112]

As a musician, RUSH will either make you practice harder or sell your instrument.😂 Most pit orchestras for musicals and plays I've seen use sheet music, these guys played three hour shows from memory! Love them and your enthusiastic reactions. Peace from a fellow bassist!🎵🙂 PS: With the recent success of the movie "Oppenheimer", you should listen to "Manhattan Project", Neil writes about the dawn of the atomic age - great music and history!

[@churchboy5827]

Thank you for watching! These dudes are musical titans! I will check that out.

[@deeksquad4051]

I live in Neil's hometown; and have seen RUSH many times. They played at my school, when I was 13, when John Rutsey was still the drummer. Neil's technical proficiency was almost inhuman. He could replicate every album performance, in each and every live performance precisely. Yet, he was always seeking to improve. "The Professor" was a musical legend. R.I.P. Thank you, Neil, Geddy, and Alex; for a lifetime of epic musical journeys. If you get the opportunity; check out the documentary "RUSH: Beyond The Lighted Stage" you'll be glad you did.

[@Barnes466]

This is a trip! :) First off, thanks for doing RUSH, they are great. RIP Neil. Another great song maybe you can look at doing is, "Spirit Of Radio". Thanks man! Please be well and God bless!

[@leddygee1896]

When This Album Dropped In 1977, The Blast Felt Worldwide Is Still Reverberating Today... Masters Of Their Craft. RIP, Professor.

[@lisak1928]

Was crazy that they played like this for nearly three hours… and add in Neil compositional drum solo for 8 minutes. Packed a lot in one show!!!

[@markb.2112]

Lucky you! You are just getting started with this adventure. Buckle up, and enjoy the ride. You really can't go wrong with any Rush selection. The most talented band I have heard in my 62 years on this earth.

[@williamdemerchant7295]

The live 1981 Exit Stage Left version of Xanadu does an even better job of showing how much fantastic live music three men can make. It also has a better drum cam to see what Neil's doing. Xanadu is based upon the Samuel Taylor Coleridge poem Kubla Khan, and borrows some of the verse.

[@BoosterGold52]

Rush is the tightest band I've seen perform. It's almost like they are psychically linked.

[@dragonmyke]

They were brothers!

[@jeffwood32]

Several (Prog)ressive bands of the 70s and 80s have some of the best, technical, musicians of all time. My two favorites are YES and GENESIS. RUSH is right up there and they studied Yes and Genesis As a bass player you should check out Chris Square of Yes. Recommendations for first songs? Probably Yes- Awaken or Round about Genesis- Firth of Fifth Thank you for sharing some of the music I grew up with and saw live many times ✌️

[@johnholland7369]

Times have changed. My father was a Baptist Minister. Needless to say, I had to hide my RUSH and other rock albums. Glad to see that RUSH is reaching Religious People now. Keep up the Great Videos. BTW. Enjoy!!! There will NEVER be another RUSH

[@scottbaxtrom4324]

Rush Geddy Lee singer,bassist,keyboardist,Alex Lifeson guitarist,Neil Peart drummer and writes all the lyrics. RIP Neil Peart 🙏. Best 3 man band ever. Rush is Timeless. The Xanadu Exit Stage Left 1981 live version is so much better. Neil Peart nickname is the Professor. His drum solo from the song Malignant Narcissism is incredible. Love to see someone react to a band that I grew up with and love for the past 40 years.

[@kenny_numbers]

The Main Monkey Business - Live in Rotterdam. Instrumental. About 35 years after Xanadu

[@Mondaydark2o12]

Rush is my favorite band. This video was awesome. They are 3 of the greatest, in my opinion. They have 20 albums! So much greatness for us to enjoy. So many great songs to be discovered for you. I am truly excited to be able to watch you react to Rush. It takes me back to the first time i heard these songs.

[@sylviawagner2859]

Getty Lee is the lead singer, bass player any plays the keyboards. I'm not sure but I believe when he's playing one instrument he plays the other with his foot. Alex Lifeson is the guitar player. Neil Peart is the drummer, he writes the lyrics. check out limelight, spirit of radio, closer to the heart, Free Will and working man.

[@geoffsullivan7902]

Saw them live in 78-79, 81…and took my sons to R40 - they were unbelievable live. My sons were stuck during the drum solo. Sound just like the albums, all of them.❤😊 RIP Professor of percussion Neil Piert…the greatest ever.

[@michaelbriefs9764]

The lyrics are based on an 18th century epic-poem fragment called "Kubla Kahn, or, A Vision in a Dream" by Samuel Taylor Coleridge. He's the guy that wrote "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner", among many other Romantic poems. Neil Peart got into a "fever dream" at one point, over this poem and felt he had to write a poem/lyric in response to it. When he did, the band had something to build an epic, Prog-Rock song around! These guys were the real deal!

[@stewpot6998]

As a drummer, Jacob's Ladder and Red Barchetta are two favorites not mentioned much. Peart is always great. For ghost notes listen to Bonham's snare (Stairway and Fool In The Rain). ✌️😉

[@toddashton9696]

Thanks for getting more Rush on the channel. I really like your reactions, and am a big Rush fan. Its a pleasure to get your thoughts and reaction to the music I love. Can't wait to see your reaction to more Rush and maybe even a Drum Solo by Neil.(see the Frankfurt drum solo). Although this is video shows the song performed, You really will be amazed by their 1981 Exit Stage Left performance of this song. Check that out when you get a chance.

[@Particulator]

I was watching your reaction to Tom Sawyer right before this one and I'll make a fishing analogy here. You're hooked I believe. I have discovered Rush in 78 I was 14 at the time. I haven't heard an other band that do music like Rush. You should check out YYZ for your next. YYZ is the callsign of the Toronto airport. They start the song using the letters YYZ in Morse code as the beat. That song is an other well known song of theirs. Do the Live in Rio version, it blows. Enjoy Rush.

[@williamdemerchant7295]

The Live in Rio version of YYZ is an amazing performance of the band, and the audience.

[@jewel_laughs]

YES!!! Live in Rio (Remastered HD): kzbin.info/www/bejne/qXOmh6aMgLpnhZY

[@churchboy5827]

Thank you for watching. I'll have to check out YYZ.

[@cityhonors1]

Around the same age when I saw Kiss in NJ 🤗 but left a Rush fan. Me: 🤯 "THEY sing New World Man? I love that song! He kinda cute in that 👘 too!" 😌 Geddy had magnificent"Bouncing & Behaving hair!". Thought he could do Prell Shampoo Commercials if Joe Nameth could do LEGGs stocking Commercials! 😁😆🐰

[@goatmonkey2112]

You say the bass player, the keyboard player, and the vocalist as if they're separate people.

[@douggoff7090]

all of that sound comes from 3 people. they are absolutely amazing live

[@stephanebertrand9162]

Great reaction Sir! Yes you pronounce Neil Peart’s name correctly (as Peert) You were asking about those "bell things" that the professor was doing, they are called tubular bells. And this is one of the reasons Xanadu is my favorite from them. Neil is not a drummer but a percussionist. In this song, besides his bad ass drum, he manages tubular bells. Wind chimes, temple blocks, triangles and glockenspiel. When listening to the studio version, you say ok. All recorded separately and mixed and edited but no. They will render the exact same thing, note for note with all the elements in a show. Like so many others, i’ve been listening to them for 40+ years and still not over it. The poetry of Neil’s lyrics, how their music’s partitions are so complex and intrecate, it takes so many listens to fully appreciate it. I’m telling you: keep going down that rabbit hole. You will not regret it. Peace.

[@TheInsaneShecklador]

I was lucky enough to see Rush 3 times. Even had front row seats right in front of Geddy the last time. I will say they are the tightest live band I've ever seen.

[@PrattFan2112]

These guys were the real deal. Their timing was impeccable, composition progressive and were better live than in studio. For a better version of the video you watched check out this live version from 1981 in Montreal. There is more improvisation in this performance and the sound and video is much better - kzbin.info/www/bejne/aJPcm32hg8ShjLsfeature=shared. Also if you keep doing Rush I would suggest checking out Stick Hits for live performances since his upscaling and remastering is amazing. Check out Red Barchetta or Freewill next, though there are like 100 songs to choose from. Also as you can see they were master musicians and have 7 or 8 pure instrumental songs that are not to be missed either. Have fun going down this rabbit hole, you will not regret the time spent!

[@sigtermans]

Neil.. not a music school graduate. High school drop out, and one of the most intelligent people I've come across.

[@MarkoMakela-kk7qf]

He as the lyrisist knew about history and philosphy a lot and thats WHY SOME OF THEIR SONGS DON'T OPEN UP TO EVERYONE. This one was about Mongolian Emperor Kublai Khan and the story of his downfall after he had made the Mongolian Empire only second to British Empire. Of course the Roman Empire was at it times standarts the most powerful ever and hence the claim from Adolf Hitler that his reing and Germany would be the Third Reing or Reich as he tried to compose a an unholy and disgusting mixture of believes and as he was a spiritist he acted just like his father. This demonic and supernatural content of the Nazi philosophy is often discarded and I don't understand why. Even their symbols were plain to see. If anyonen just thinks that this man who was rejected from a art school, just wanted to kill millions of peoples just because of that,... it is impossible.. he was an vegetarian and didn't drink alcohol in his adult years asnd hated smokers, but used all the drugs available like amphfetamin... and because of the exessive use of speed, he couldn't sleep and then you need another drugs for that problem. He also used opiats for his constant theeth problems and pains... so actually he was high 24/7 all the time. If that kind of usage don't make a man crazy, I don't know what does.

[@TheBlaster54]

The only three piece rock band that sounds like a full orchestra.

[@snakeinthegrass7443]

I think you picking up your bass and playing some riffs is pretty cool. Ignore the hate. It's everywhere. That said, thank you for getting back to Rush so soon!! I love witnessing a new fan being born. Neil, (you are saying his name correctly), Peart was a very special person and musician. You will love the dive into this group, but wear a life vest bc the pool is very deep at all ends. You should prob scratch that Neil itch that you have at the moment by watching his solo in Frankfurt next, but anything is going to amaze. God bless, sir.

[@G-MAN1958]

I enjoyed watching you figure out the bass riffs!😄 BTW, Geddy Lee actually had a mid range speaking voice. He said in an interview that he had to sing in a much higher range in order to rise above the heaviness of the music. May I suggest the instrumental, "La Villa Strangiato", from their 1978 album, HEMISPHERES. (It is a very long song). You could also try, 'Subdivisions", from 1981 as you continue your RUSH journey! ☮

[@churchboy5827]

Thank you for watching. I will check those out. I keep getting lost in the complexity of their music. This band is a real treat.

[@dbrown6451]

Neil was a percussionist, rock drummer, and lyricist. Legend

[@fretless05]

I've heard it said more than once that drummers play to metronomes and metronomes play to Neal Peart...

[@KevinHudson-q7i]

When RUSH recorded this for the album they nailed it in one take. WHAT A TOE TAPPER RUSH ON😊

[@generoberts9151]

Neil’s striking tubular bells, plays the glockenspiel in between drum parts and adds wind chimes. The dude has an entire percussion section back there

[@cmorrow74]

Neil Peart was not just a drummer, he was a PERCUSSIONIST. If it could be hit, he was hitting it. He played everything from drums to plywood, and he made it sound incredible. Add to that the fact that he was also their primary lyricist, and you have a truly special, once-in-a-generation talent.

[@michaelbriefs9764]

Church Boy, the version of Xanadu you are listening to is not a "live"/in front of an audience recording but rather the studio/record version. This song came out in 1977 on an album called "A Farewell to Kings". Rush recorded the version you are hearing in 1 take. They recorded it over a few different takes but the version they ended up using was take 1, on the album!! Can you believe they were THAT PREPARED to record this epic song?? Unbelievable chops and song-craft! By the way, it's a lot of fun to watch the live concert version, from Montreal in 1981 -- the "Exit, Stage Left" concert video. It's awesome. OK, what other cool song from them could you hear? Hm...how about "Limelight", the official video? You should check out that song!

[@juliebrockett3471]

Hey Michael, hope you’ve been well! Haven’t seen you much since we went thru the whole discography with Justin! I had commented above and some jerk called me a liar and told me I should get off the internet!! LOL! You’re a SUPER RUSH fan…Check out my comment and see if I got any facts wrong! I gave him a pretty strong reply too! LOL! Stay well and God bless.. from Texas!!

[@Salmacis99]

Neil Peart was not trained- just one of those legendary talents who just had IT. The whole band. Rush was my proper introduction into Progressive Music, and I never looked back. Listening the Neil was my teaching as a drummer. He's a GOAT of rock drumming, RIP to The Professor.

[@Mike80528]

Neil claimed he wasn't so much talented as relentless in his pursuit of "perfection"...always striving to learn and improve up to the end. RIP GOAT.

[@matthewturner8916]

I envy you. You're entering a musical world of wonder with this band. Best ever!

[@Vault-vh5jm]

Some of us Rush fans can be a bit enthusiastic and a bit zealous. Rush is by far my favorite band of all time, but I realize everyone discovers music in their own way and in their own time. Don’t take any of the comments that people make about getting the bands names or the meaning of the songs right too seriously or negatively. Just realize that our enthusiasm and passion for Rush runs both deep and wide. Look forward to hearing more Rush reactions from you as you discover them for yourself. Blessings. 😇

[@bigpapavee]

Neil Peart is the ultimate drum student. They wrote and toured for years and years and many years later when they finally had a band hiatus, Mr. Peart went out and took bebop and swing lessons and cut a jazz album.

[@mletrout7942]

Xanadu from Exit Stage Left, my guy! Best live performance by any rock band.

[@byronness7385]

3 dudes, making all that sound so full it’s like an orchestra… Have to say it again… 3 dudes who perform at peak levels of musicianship

[@tomvodicka2307]

Your passion towards my favorite band is so refreshing. I am a musician myself. Drummer, singer and lyricist.

[@garylee3229]

Geddy Lee lead singer bass/Keyboards and footboards, Alex Lifeson lead guitar/footboards and back vocals, Neil Peart AKA “The Professor”. Every other drummer’s favourite drummer 🇨🇦🫶

[@paulrobinson5833]

That 1981 Exit Stage left is probably the greatest live performance.

[@BrendaNelson-ll4ls]

Church Boy, you keep talking about Neil. Please watch Neil Peart's drum solo from Frankfurt Germany. I've been a Rush fan for 46 years. Experiencing Rush Live was incredible. Neil was pure perfection all 5 times I saw Rush Live. Rush has softer side of songs. Check out Available Light on their Presto album. Resist on their Test for Echo album. The Pass on their Presto album. all very beautifully written lyrics by Neil Peart. Amazingly sung by Geddy Lee.

[@FlightinDarkness-eb7uh]

great honest reaction god lead you to rush like he did me you have no idea what your in for with this super band. go to their last lp for example the song "caravan" studio or live in cleavland time machine tour, for off time clockwork angels song, studio there is a super time shift twice. I saw the tour back in the 70s when they played Xanadu in fl. first rush tour. see this band all the way through many great songs to come. favorite band since Xanadu a farewell to kings lp god bless to u and yours and your church

[@morsecode2112]

Rock on! Bustin' out the Church Bass, feeling the vibe. I love this reaction. Cool stuff! And what a song to hear for the first time!

[@NASA-stole-our-money]

Uuuuhhh-ooohhh...Churchboy....you're in trouble...Rush will shake your Spirit, Holmes!

[@churchboy5827]

I'm loving this band. I'm gonna check out spirit of radio next.

[@lerxst1234]

if you like tasty treats, YYZ after Spirit of Radio

[@markotto9855]

Welcome to the family! You're in the rabbit hole now brother! You haven't even gotten into the lyrics yet 😂 Wait till you hear a few albums a few times!

[@darrenvanderwilt1856]

This is the studio/album version. The live version is awesome. Interestingly, the bird chirping at the beginning was not a planned thing. Neil Peart set up his percussion kit outside of Le Studio in Quebec for a different sound dynamic for the intro part. While recording, the nearby bird was chirping continuously to his annoyance, and ending up in the song. When the song was mixed, the bird chirping fit perfectly. God works in wonderful ways. Big time Rush fan. I enjoy seeing new listeners react to their music. The song is about a man who searches for immortality in Xanadu. After finding it, he finds he's trapped. "A mad immortal man."

[@RobertMichaelStewart]

I had the pleasure of seeing Rush 53 times including the final show at the Forum in LA.... My first show was in 1978 at the Forum.... Got to meet Alex Lifeson that last show.... Greatest live band ever.... Loved your reaction.... Liked and subscribed.... Prayers up Brother ❤️🙏.... Looking forward to watching more of your Rush reactions.... Bass player is Geddy Lee.... Multi talented musicians!

[@davidedwards3838]

Spirit of the radio. The animated video. The transitions in that track are insane.

[@dmack1827]

Dang, Church Boy! This song was based on a classical poem named "A Vision in a Dream" by Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Peart was a student of percussion who played and practiced constantly. He also studied with Buddy Rich and played a lot of jazz etc. Geddy Lee played bass, guitar, keyboard, bass pedals and sang. Alex Lifeson played a variety of guitars, bass pedals plus multiple other pedals. The trio was a once-in-a-lifetime band. A complete anomaly. Keep on enjoying them. The lyrics are not those of the devil, they involve sciences, literature and many other things and no other band has come close lyrically.

[@kennethhickey8241]

Love the reaction!! Your journey of the best power trio ever is just beginning! Enjoy the ride!!

[@thehorriblesingingtrucker2281]

Neil Peart was always learning! He always felt he could improve. He traveled all over the world learning drums from different countries and incorporating these sounds into his music

[@sonicart1808]

All 3 of these guys are incredible musicians, great reaction sir!

[@tkremarkTK]

Neil is not only a great drummer and percussionist, but also he was a voracious reader and wrote most of all the lyrics to the songs. Very deep meanings in his lyrics. Since you are a musician, you have to listen to The Spirit of Radio. The title is exactly what it means but the lyrics make it even deeper.

[@churchboy5827]

I will have to check that out. That dude is a beast!

[@JoeCruz-hs2yt]

​@@churchboy5827bro listen to the band yes that's rush influenced rush is a cover of yes !

[@HenryBielski]

Geddy Lee has a normal pitched voice when speaking. Originally he played guitar not bass and when he switched to bass he raised his voice octave to contrast the lower bass.

[@Billis75]

Hey man, don't worry about anyone who complains that you can't sound like Geddy on the bass right on the spot. You're doing your process.

[@churchboy5827]

Thank you for those words. This band is blowing my mind!

[@squamishfish]

Rush has an extremely deep rabbit hole , the thing with Rush they are so extremely versatile in the songs they have , Be ready ton-expect the unexpected

[@Jonno2summit]

Your comment after 12:25 was a rare insight into Rush, and I think your words pretty much sums up Rush in a nutshell (which has no shell, but had 3 nuts).

[@claranielsen3382]

I owned every Rush album and lost track of how many concerts I went to lol. Rush and Led Zeppelin my to favorite bands of the 70s. The best way to listen is get your headphones , get in bed , close your eyes and let the music transport you to another place. Great reaction ❤

[@michaelnadell99]

Appreciate your reaction, Church Boy! You are right, this is not the devil’s music. I also grew up in the church and this type of music was frowned upon. But the church could learn a lot from RUSH…musically and lyrically! Anyway, you’ve just scratched the surface. Enjoy the ride. God Bless and keep exploring the RUSH rabbit hole.

[@scottdavis2387]

Neil studied percussion beyond studying. He pushed is abilities to the absolute max. Please, please, watch Rush Live from Frankfurt drum solo. You will not be disappointed!!!

[@markmiller3101]

Rush took prog rock to the next level. As for Neil? He is your favorite drummer’s favorite drummer. He inspired all rock drummers who came after him. Not only are his skills on another level he also wrote most all of the lyrics to all of their songs. Neil was an absolute genius, philosopher, and truly amazing in every sense of the word. Rush music is almost always uplifting, happy, and fun to listen to. They are the thinkin man’s band…*****Welcome to the Rush Army, happy to have you Sir!*****

[@TheRedMike671]

They do everything you want to do, everything you're not supposed to do - put it all together and make you love what you never thought you would. Musicians are more or less taught to play something 3 times... They hardly every do but on holds, they hold it longer than normal, they sustain composition twice over... Thorough and exquisite. Very tasteful. You know, musical scholars have a hard time teaching students transitions, holds, accents, syncopation, f ---> ff ---> FFF, (ha) and these guys put explanation marks on it all effortlessly (like we're supposed to!) Watch them tap their feet (they don't.) My music teacher always tried to get me to tap my foot... At a young age I hadn't noticed but I never really did. I already had the timing and it wasn't necessary. Played drums and didn't tap? No. Was also told to hold my sticks tighter. I didn't get it. Teased my high school teacher when I 'willed' my drum sticks to him when I graduated. lol (If you don't drop sticks don't hold them tighter.) grrrr Listening to Rush is kind of like chasing a train but it never actually gets away or hurts anyone. Powerful, intriguing. Soaring through clouds!

[@GH-xc4du]

Sounds like there are so many of their songs you'll like/love, seeing as how you play the bass, I'd take a look at a song called YYZ- it's no lyrics and Geddy Lee (bassist) and Neal Peart (you are pronouncing his name right) they made the song without the guitarist at first so the song is structured for the bass and the drums and then what Alex does on top of that with the guitar is of course great as well

[@melpetricko3932]

One of the things I am really enjoying about your reaction videos is your appreciation for Alex Lifeson on lead guitar. Somehow his talent gets overlooked, and he's every bit the consummate player his bandmates are.

[@squamishfish]

This when they were starting out after Neil joined the band early in their music writing career,still in the Rock 70s style of music ,

[@PromLesbian]

You can always check out RUSH'S Documentary - Beyond the Lighted Stage

[@teresasullivan4588]

His voice has evolved over the years just like their music has evolved. They are very young in this video and have been playing together for a long time. They’re quite prolific and matured with each album 💿 ❤

[@amberfuge-3580]

I have to tell you the bands that you and other people are bringing back to light never use computers they did this music with their own hands and yes, rush was amazing what they put out

[@roimerlopez1275]

Hello my friend!!!...No one better than you, to make a reaction video and analyze this incredible singer, with THE MOST AMAZING VOCAL RANGE of the World, who is leaving all the experts, literally with their jaws on the floor....In 2017, a 22-year-old singer from Kazakhstan, named Dimash Kudaibergen, was invited to participate in the famous Chinese program for professional singers called "The Singer"!!!... In his first appearance, Dimash covered one of the most difficult songs in the world, a famous French composition called "S.O.S. D'un Terrien En Détresse"...Since then all this madness began on the internet, KZbin and social networks worldwide and he is already considered the best singer on the entire planet... It is almost impossible to see a human being, being able to reach vocal ranges of 8 octaves, that is, the 88 keys of a digital piano, which allows him to reach all registers, both masculine and feminine, that is, he can sing as Bass, Baritone, Tenor, Contratenor, Contralto, Mezzosoprano and Soprano!!...You can see in KZbin to all kinds of experts (Vocal coaches, analysts, singing teachers, singers, youtubers, reactors, etc.), who have dedicated themselves to watching his videos and verifying for themselves that what is said about him is completely true!!...In addition to all this, Dimash is capable of singing in more than 12 languages!!!...In all his concerts worldwide, tickets are sold in just seconds, via the internet, due to the immense popularity he has worldwide...Anyway, I think you haven't met this impressive singer yet, so here is the link to his LIVE PERFORMANCE of the song "Sinful Passion" at Sochi in 2018, and if it doesn't bother you, I would like you to mention me as the person who recommended it to you!!...Warning: You have to be prepared for thousands of views, comments and new subscribers...Link of the song:...kzbin.info/www/bejne/jWqpnXeDeNRrgrcsi=FeChki639aJASx0b

[@churchboy5827]

Thank you for watching. They sound like a rare talent. I will check it out and will definitely give you a shout out.

[@analogkid4557]

This was from 1977. It was the studio version with live footage put together for a music video. Wait until you see the Exit Stage Left Live version from 1981.

[@JohnBrooking4]

If you haven't heard of the "progressive rock" genre, this is a prime example. It is exemplified by serious musicianship, writing longer and more complex music that is difficult to play, often with several sections, based on themes. It's often easier for other musicians to appreciate than non-musicians, although hopefully non-musicians like it too. All 3 of these guys took their musicianship extremely seriously, and continued to practice and get better at their craft throughout their entire career. They never wanted to rest on their laurels and stop challenging themselves. This piece is from the late 1970's. Other examples of the first generation of "prog rock" bands are Yes; Emerson, Lake, and Palmer; early Genesis; and Kansas.

[@michaelbriefs9764]

Another great instrumental work they do is called "La Villa Strangiato". It's a multi-part piece of music that takes you on a journey! Check out La Villa Strangiato!

[@robertboyer1086]

Xanadu was inspired by an unfinished poem by Samuel Taylor Coleridge titled Kubla Khan , or, A Vision in a Dream: A Fragment. Neil, who wrote the lyrics to almost all of their songs, got inspiration from a lot of different literary sources.

[@scottwilson7835]

👍🎶 Welcome to the family fun-ride. They're gifts to us with these creations. Rush fan since 78!

[@diverdown631]

Listen to la villa strangiato from the Hemispheres album. It's instrumental with killer drums and an awesome bass breakdown solo that you'll love. Guaranteed you back up the song to hear it two or three times

[@jewel_laughs]

Live in Cleveland: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kGTdnYWaoNiUoas

[@jenniferandrews1917]

I have watched a handful of your reactions now and I’m so impressed. New subscriber here for sure! RUSH is the band that inspired me to become a drummer starting at age 10. I would LOVE LOVE LOVE to see your reaction to Johnny and Edgar Winter’s TOBACCO ROAD LIVE. It’s old, it’s Gospel, it’s a man who plays many instruments and they are Albinos.

[@tyronehardy1560]

Great reaction. Rush is one of those bands that when musicians are growing there is always that band that everyone tries to play, that is Rush. You must react to La Villa Strangiato live from Cleveland. Also, if you like Neil react to his salute to Buddy Rich when he is playing Cotton Tail. He will blow you away.

[@johnladd8421]

neil is a student. the ultimate student. even in his later years he was taking lessons from jazz greats just to get better. ironically his nickname is “ the professor “ but only because he spends way more time than any other human constantly learning. the world misses him dearly. but he left a great impression while he was here.