What made Neil Peart so special? A fan's retrospective.

[@terrywilliams667]

As a long time friend of Neil's, I wanted to send along compliments to you and your recent tribute....

[@chrisragona3945]

Is this Thee Terry Williams? Dire Straits? If so Thank-You sir for your awesome work.

[@terrywilliams667]

Sorry. Different TW, tho I agree with your comment...

[@mikefouts8945]

great work Terry! 😎

[@terrywilliams667]

@NaghaviSystem Met Neil in 1972, before Rush. See "Ghost Rider" approx page 396...

[@gestet]

@terry williams, after reading pages 396-397 I stopped @ the line Neil wrote about meeting you in St. Catharines (P.397) while you were a Dj @ the local radio station. Just curious if you worked @1220 CHSC or 610 CKTB back in '72? Both AM stations (for anyone wondering) as the first FM rock station didn't start broadcasting from the Garden City until June 27, 1986 @ 97.7 CHTZ FM (aka. Hits FM).en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CHTZ-FM

[@MadMonk67]

He left us far too soon. I'm among the millions who were touched by his music and lyrics. Who's cutting onions in here?!

[@keithsage1593]

Algoma Nation.

[@a.barnard3205]

I am, but only for BBQ Sauce! :)

[@iamjakepaul944]

I’m not crying....you’re crying!!

[@Mr.CliffysWorld]

Been cutting onions since January.

[@CraigSchweitzerCNIM]

In addition to being a kind and decent human, what made him special as a world-class drummer was his motivation and commitment to purposeful, methodical, and deliberate practice. It wasn't just about talent ... it was more about dedication and willingness to put in the time, effort and energy to be the best he could be ... and one of the best we've ever seen.

[@gabriel_mendez]

That's true. He once said that every single beat or fill or lick was worked so hard because everything was so hard to him . And he pushed and pushed until he reached the excellence. He was an example of the benefits of hard work.

[@mickeyjudge7298]

Very well said. Perfectly, actually.

[@michael7324]

So true. And even though he was considered one of the best of his time, he never rested. He knew he could do better so he found a new mentor and relearned how the play the drums even better. Simply amazing.

[@SoCal780]

Right on Craig. Well said.

[@clarkewi]

Well said.

[@sascotttx5145]

On more than a couple of occasions, since Neil's death, I've ended up binge watching everything Rush on KZbin, for several days straight. I'm surprised that I haven't seen your video until now. I just wanted to let you know that you did a wonderful job, Steve. Thank you for sharing this tribute here. I also feel privileged, and fortunate, to have been a part of the ride.

[@iceman45ification1]

There isn't another artist whose death affected me as much as Neil's. He was a huge inspiration and influence in my drumming. He was definitely way ahead of his time. In a time where other drummers were around just to keep a beat and get a check, he was getting things done, pouring his heart and soul into the music. Neil, Geddy and Alex will forever be my favorite musicians. Awesome video Steve. 👌 R.I.P. Neil 😥💔🥁

[@TheCocoaDaddy]

He was at the definitive core of who I am, as a person. His precision, his focus, his work ethic, the quality of this work...all of that serves as a model and inspiration to me. I still feel like a part of me has been ripped out.

[@Torgo1969]

@@TheCocoaDaddy I hear you. I still get emotional listening to Rush these days ever since his death.

[@patjeudy5250]

Agreed. Greater than John Bonham in some degree.

[@carlgarrard9710]

Same Danny. Great person, and really great, not casually stated. I still get teary eyed thinking about it.

[@JoseMTamez]

I hear you man, the only celebrity that brought me to tears. Since 2112 All the Worlds a Stage" super fan!

[@pfdrtom]

"Neil was...." Words I hoped to never hear.

[@lauriivey7801]

Hurts every time I hear it .........

[@perlamedina-kinne1492]

So poignant...

[@rickleblanc8900]

Imo the reason it hit so hard is because Rush was calling it a day after 40 yrs of greatness and the fans always held onto the hope that they'd have a change of heart and come back out on tour, at least one more time. So while fans' hopes and expectations were still riding high, Neil's passing was the last thing anyone expected. No one knew about his condition, it was the ultimate shock to us all and it still hurts.

[@HAKKY2112]

@@rickleblanc8900 And yet to add, Or just saying... I (personally) find/found Clockwork Angels album to be such a perfect rounding ender... I fing love CA.

[@rickleblanc8900]

@@HAKKY2112 oh ya, that album is brilliant, a fitting one to bookend their amazing career. And i saw them live on that tour, what an amazing concert.

[@JF-kv1gm]

Six months tomorrow. Thinking of Neil's parents and siblings, his wife, Carrie and daughter. And, of course, Geddy, Alex, the Rush team and the global Rush fan family. 💗🙏

[@j.s.connolly8579]

Ok... THAT DID IT! That end piece with the last part from "Hemispheres" with all of the GREAT Pics of Neil... THAT'S when the water works started! Neil was my HERO, my MENTOR, my INSPERATION... He is the MAIN REASIN I BECAME a drummer back almost 42 yrs. ago! GODS his passing is like a HUGE Open wound... :(

[@Smileatlife37]

HEMISPHERES my favorite

[@Jellybeantiger]

J.S. Connolly Hemispheres blew me away,I bought an imported vinyl with the brains on the record label,prog !

[@j.s.connolly8579]

Yep! I have a version of Hemispheres that is colored RED and the Cover Photo is Imprinted on it! VERY Rare record indeed! I have several RUSH "Color Disk" records like that in my collection! :D

[@Jellybeantiger]

J.S. Connolly Very nice mate.

[@j.s.connolly8579]

Thanks Jelly. :)

[@WallyLeader]

Very cool tribute to Neil - the Gentleman, the Professor, the Lyricist and the best drummer of all time! RIP Neil.

[@digitalmarketinglab8294]

I am not a drummer, however I believe that Neil Peart was probably the best drummer ever on this planet. I love you too John Bonham.

[@friedpickles342]

I am a drummer and concur

[@cjpines5634]

I hate the whole 'best ever' argument...but if he isn't in someones top 5 their opinion is invalid in my eyes.

[@gsdsteve8825]

Great rock drummer. Best drummer ever on the planet was probably his idol Buddy Rich!

[@lenn741]

Thanks for showcasing for the extraordinary talent of Neil Peart. I'm an Aussie and the first time I heard Rush was when I was 17, coming back from the US and had to stop in Singapore to catch a connecting flight back to Aus. I had a 3 day lay-over in Singapore, met a beautiful girl and stayed with her for those 3 days (I really lucked out there). Anyway, she had a compilation tape with Tom Sawyer on it. I must have listened to it over and over about a thousand times, from that point on I was hooked on Rush, and knew I was going to be a drummer. I played in a lot of original bands in Perth, and my drumming was heavily influenced by Neil. I was shocked and deeply saddened by his death. These larger than life characters just seem to be immortal, you never really think they're gonna die. RIP Neil Peart, the most influential drummer to ever exist. You've certainly left your mark on this planet! (I think this is the longest comment I've ever left on KZbin ;)

[@Ed3kidsconnelly]

“When I heard that he was gone I felt a shadow cross my heart.” That was a beautiful tribute.

[@Mr.CliffysWorld]

He never judged people, he just took them as they were.... "I knew he was different in his sexuality, I went to his parties as a straight minority , never felt a threat to my masculinity , he only introduced me to a wider reality ,, as the years went by, we drifted apart, when I heard that he had gone I felt a shadow cross my heart , " one of the most accepting, non judgemental people ever to walk the earth .

[@glenhenderson1703]

I'm just glad that Neil Peart is being remembered. He's too good to let fade away.

[@timandshannon03]

Can't ever fade away, too many drummers have scars on their index fingers from playing so long chasing the Master's touch!!!!!

[@paolov737]

He will never fade away. Maybe until the year 2112 when the priests take him from us, and even then we will rebel against it and Neil will assume control once more.

[@mikemallery913]

Agree - I was really disappointed he was retiring-hated to hear the guys say they would not tour due to deteriorating ability to play live - I’d love to see them play with back up musicians just to see them again, other musicians do it all the time as they age, but I respected them - they had substance to their character, and now we all really know - he suffered from a terrible disease and there’s no reason he needed to share it, it wasn’t like lung cancer with a teachable moment of poor decisions like smoking, he went his own way gracefully. RIP!!! Canada should dedicate a statue to Mr. Peart!

[@glenhenderson1703]

@@mikemallery913 I think this is one band that shouldn't try to continue without each other. Solo careers, fine, but not as Rush.

[@helluvatime4562]

How can there possibly be 50 dislikes for this? He was simply the best drummer who ever picked up the sticks.

[@dragonmyke]

Stupidity 😂?

[@robertorozco1746]

Must be Bonham fans

[@sarawashington6779]

Not even top 10 skill wise but he was ONE OF A KIND (signature beats and lyrics)...

[@scottsharp3356]

Jealousy from Bonham fans who was simply taking out his drunken anger on drums. Keith Moon wasn’t close. Baker wasn’t close. Sorty

[@grissomnumber1]

There’s 50 dislikes because that’s 50 dope asses in that this is they don’t know their ass from a pair of drumsticks

[@pattituma6168]

WHAT A WONDERFUL TRIBUTE, MY HUSBAND SCOTT WAS A DRUMMER IN SCHOOL AND ALSO HAD A DRUM SET ,BECAUSE OF HIS FAVORITE BAND RUSH, AND HIS FAVORITE DRUMMER NEIL, MY DEAR HUSBAND PASSED AWAY AT 54 YRS.OLD 2019, HE AND NEIL ARE PLAYING DRUMS IN HEAVEN TOGETHER. AND MY SISTER JULIE AND I WILL NEVER FORGET OUR RUSH CONCERT IN THE 80'S, IN CLEVELAND OHIO, OUR FAVORITE SONG, ( LIMELIGHT) GREAT MEMORIES OF THE BEST OF TIMES. HOW WE WISH WE COULD GO BACK. 😊🎵🎼🎶🎵🎵🎵

[@GGBundy]

Your husband may be in heaven playing the drums but I don’t think Neil is. I’m not being mean I’m just saying that because Neil wasn’t exactly known for being religiously spiritual. Quite the opposite. From what I’ve read he was a good person but that won’t get you into the pearly gates.

[@gr3gc0]

"Follow men's eyes As they look to the skies The shifting shafts of shining Weave the fabric of their dreams" - Neil Peart

[@johnhancock9249]

gr3gc0 only a genius can create a lyric like that.

[@Rangerglx]

Jacobs Ladder, those lines are amazing. Rush songs are some of the only songs I know the words too.

[@patricktiglao]

Jacobs ladder

[@badderthanyou]

He was a genius. Saw and and could articulate things most can’t.

[@leejennings8456]

Read his books. Rode some of the same roads on my motorcycle. Stayed in some of the same places. Could feel his pain. Damn just getting over Petty and then Neil. At 72 I'm already tired of losing friends and people who have made my life more enjoyable with their talents.

[@seanriffle6324]

I feel your pain brother. Unfortunately it's starting to happen all to often.

[@justinfontaine9953]

I'm 59 years old and a drummer and have read his books and ridden a BMW GS ( and other bikes) on many of the same roads. Lived the same life on the same bike. Same mom and pop motels. Same shitty weather. Same bad road food. The fact that with all his money and fame he chose to live his life the way that I do makes us brothers from a different mother.

[@williamdowden4494]

Lee Jennings this was a tough one to take. Still cried during this video. Don’t think I will ever be able to listen to their music with out tears.

[@MM-ig1iv]

Yeah I agree.. with these great loses.. and not having any greats coming into this world to replace them sort of speak.. the world's getting worse.. people are ruining music now days. I can't even give it a minute of attention and I know it's garbage! What the hell's this world coming to?

[@MM-ig1iv]

Thank God for the music they've left! Inspired musician here.

[@KG-mc1mv]

If you think you appreciate great drumming and enjoy musicianship, and you gave this a thumbs down, you actually do neither.

[@robertpinazza4043]

Truth spoken; Amen to you brother.

[@rickleblanc8900]

60 meatheads gave this a thumbs down ?? Fucking idiots

[@PennyLarson]

It took me a day to gird myself to watch this. I wanted to be in the right headspace. This was really beautiful Steve.

[@SteveHolmesDrums]

Thank you Penny!

[@DHarri9977]

Same here, I listened to Rush when they first hit the scene and continued from the point when Neil replaced the original drummer. They progressed from one album to the next I was extremely inspired by Neil's talent, he set the bar for many drummers the torch was passed from John Bonham to Neil.

[@michaelferro897]

seeing Neil live was so incredible, there wasn't a cymbal on his kit not moving, he was just such an amazing blur of talent!!! I mean really, what hasn't been said about his stupendous abilities?!? he is sorely missed and we're extremely fortunate to have had his magic shared with us. thank you.

[@Jelsick]

I am not a musician, but when I look at you, I see a blurred mirror image of myself. I discovered Rush as a teen back in the early 80s. Neil's prose spoke to me like no other words I had ever heard before or since. That, coupled with the music created by Geddy and Alex occupied a spot in my soul that is the soundtrack of my youth. There is the like button here, but I wish there was a love button as well. Excellent video.

[@PubliusSPQR]

Well written sir. Like you, I am not a musician. Like you, the music of Rush and the insightful, intelligent lyrics of Neil Peart penetrated every pitiful defense I erected due to the unfortunate circumstances of my youth, and not only broke through to speak to my psyche, but deeply molded the person I evolved into. I cannot fathom how my teenage years (late 70's - early 80's) would've been without the music of Rush and the lyrics of Neil Peart to see me through the best of times and the worst of times. I am diminished at Neil's passing. At the risk of appearing jaded and cliche, if there's a Rock-n-Roll heaven, well you know they've got a hell of a band... R.I.P Neil Peart. To live on in the hearts of those he touched is to never die.

[@mstrtwister]

You would have loved being into the 70s Rush also. I couldn't wait until their next album came out and where and how many times I could to go see them that year.

[@Jelsick]

mstrtwister Unfortunately, I had never heard of Rush until around the time they released Moving Pictures. My brother came home with a vinyl copy, and after one listen I was hooked for life. Of course, I soon dug into their early releases, and was blown away by the prog, and fantasy themes, as well as the straight up rockers.

[@j.s.connolly8579]

YEP! And I got to actually MEET several of my Drumming Heroes through out my life. Those were Neil, Stewart Copland and Buddy Rich. I got to clinic with Neil back in 1987. But it wasn't JUST Sitting and listening to him... we actually spent some time together talking and laughing and I'd LIKE to think he enjoyed MY company as much as I did?! I did get the better part of that bargain though in MY opinion! :D

[@oldsrocket8841]

Wow, That's an awesome story. What was it like meeting Buddy?

[@j.s.connolly8579]

Well... when I FIRST Met Buddy I was 12... the next summer I started to teach myself to play the drums. I had WANTED to play the bass and be "Gene Simmons"...{SO Glad I did do THAT!} Buddy was VERY Cool! He and his band played at the high school that was next to my middle school. I got a flyer for the concert and my dad INSISTED that we go! Tickets were like $5.00 each! Soooo we went And I was BLOWN AWAY! THEN After the show my Father and I went down to the stage to meet him and I got his Autograph! Fast Forward to Summer of 1985 at the Milwaukee Summer Fest and I see that "The Buddy Rich Orchestra" is playing that night. So I went to see him and even seven years later... and he was STILL INCREDIBLE! And after the show I went to the back stage area and there he was signing autographs. I waited 'till he was done and all the people had cleared out and I walked up and said "Hi Buddy... Nice to see you again!" He looked at me like "WHAT?!" THEN His eyes opened WIDE and he said, "Oh My God! Hey Kid How are you doing?!" And he Smiled wide and hugged me HARD and said "WOW! You've grown! How's your dad?" YEA! HE REMEMBERED! And I told him dad was doing good... and he asked what I was up to and I said. "Well.. since I saw you seven years ago I've since become a drummer too BECAUSE of YOU!" And ye says, "Well tell your folks I'm sorry!" And I said, "No actually they are VERY Proud of me! And we talked a bit longer but I could see he was very tired. So I shook his hand and he hugged me again and said he was VERY glad I stopped to say Hi! That was his LAST Concert in Milwaukee as he died later that year. I also got to meet and talk with Neil at a clinic in Hollywood Cal. in 1987... and I also met Stewart Copland at a local club that doesn't even EXIST anymore! All THREE Are. Were and AWAYS WILL BE MY DRUMMING/MUSIC Heroes! :D THEY gave me my DRIVE and I continue to "HOLD THE FIRE"!!!

[@jimnewl]

"I'd like to think he enjoyed my company as much as I did! I did get the better part of that bargain though in my opinion!" LOL! I know what you meant to say but I can't stop laughing...it's like, "Full of yourself much?" Again, I know that's not what you meant, so don't get your feathers all ruffled. It's just funny :)

[@toddhue6392]

Steve, thanks so much for putting this together. I honestly choked up at the end. My second Rush show was the Power Windows tour, at the Spectrum. Like many of us, there was a time in my life when I idolized Neil. In my early 20’s, I spent a month shedding La Villa in an unheated concrete practice room, obsessively rewinding a cassette over two-bar sections to figure out what he was playing. He left more than a legacy; his playing is hard-coded into a million drummers, whether they realize it or not. Thank you for being amazing, Neil. Thank you for reminding us, Steve.

[@AdvancedLiving]

Rush shows at the Spectrum were my teen years! My first was Moving Pictures with FM opening. It doesn’t get more Canadian prog than that.

[@rhythmetist]

Thank you so much for making this, Steve. We needed this tribute, all of us that grew up with his influence heavy on our formative years. You expressed it all so well. Thank you, thank you.

[@thewatcher5271]

What Made Neil Peart So Special? Talent Like No Other & The Greatest Drummer & Lyricist Of His Time . . .

[@RCSkunkWorX]

Peart received the following awards in the Modern Drummer magazine reader's poll Hall of Fame: 1983 Best Rock Drummer*: 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 2006, 2008 Best Multi-Percussionist*: 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986 Best Percussion Instrumentalist: 1982 Most Promising New Drummer: 1980 Best All Around: 1986 1986 Honor Roll: Rock Drummer, Multi-Percussion As a member of the Honor Roll in these categories, he is no longer eligible for votes in the above categories. Best Instructional Video: 2006, for Anatomy of a Drum Solo Best Drum Recording of the 1980s, 2007, for "YYZ" from Exit... Stage Left Best Recorded Performance: 1980: Permanent Waves 1981: Moving Pictures 1982: Exit... Stage Left 1983: Signals 1985: Grace Under Pressure 1986: Power Windows 1988: Hold Your Fire 1989: A Show of Hands 1990: Presto 1992: Roll the Bones 1993: Counterparts 1997: Test for Echo 1999: Different Stages 2002: Vapor Trails 2004: R30 2007: Snakes & Arrows 2011: Time Machine 2012: Clockwork Angels Peart received the following awards from DRUM! magazine for 2007 Drummer of the Year Best Progressive Rock Drummer Best Live Performer Best DVD (Anatomy Of A Drum Solo) Best Drumming Album (Snakes & Arrows) Peart received the following awards from DRUM! magazine for 2008 Drummer of the Year Best Progressive Rock Drummer Best Mainstream Pop Drummer Best Live Drumming Performer Peart received the following awards from DRUM! magazine for 2009 Drummer Of The Year Best Progressive Rock Drummer Peart received the following awards from DRUM! magazine for 2010 Drummer of the Year Best Live Performer Best Progressive Rock Drummer

[@stevew6910]

Neil = Picasso on a drum set . Artist who happened to use drum sticks

[@markrago7217]

He probably sat at the top of the titled drum royalty of his era, possibly of any 20th century era of pop culture. He was also extremely intelligent and articulate, which lent itself well to his role of lead lyricist of Rush. I'm not so easily convinced that he was the BEST lyricist of his generation though. I say this for several reasons. He definitely nailed nearly every one of his advanced sci-fi poetry pieces in the decade spanning 1974-1983. However, I think his best work particularly had a tendency to get a bit too wordy and deep for the average listener. I get it, but my IQ is also 133. There are many people who don't necessarily possess the vocabulary skills that Mr.Peart was gifted with. On the flip side, he never allowed that to deter him from writing so many thought provoking lyrics, which I admire. My second gripe is that his lyrics got a bit too literal and inconsistent between 1984 and 1994 approximately. I was never a huge fan of the left turn the band made in the 80s into world flavored accompaniments or the leap from sci-fi lyrics to more cautionary tales about global preservation and social unrest that dominated that era of Rush albums. They did revert back to form a bit on Roll the Bones, but even it seemed a bit perfunctory compared to that golden era from Fly by Night on through to Signals. The Counterparts album went in another direction entirely, with a more stripped down, guitar oriented rock sound with lyrics ranging from the slightly obtuse and disjointed darkness of Stick it Out, to a sympathetic social justice ballad about a homosexual young man, with varying degrees of less inspired lyrical cocophonies that comprise the remainder of that album. I do find the final third of the bands work from Snakes and Arrows on to be more consistent and lyrically sound than the bands middle period, and the band seemed to enjoy a return to ubiquitous relevancy during the remainder of their existence. Finally (I apologize for the lack of brevity here, but it's a complicated discussion), I would argue that there were a number of immensely talented lyricists who were writing during the roughly 40 year recording tenure that Rush enjoyed. Black Sabbath bassist/GZR founder Geezer Butler was the godfather of dark, occult inspired lyrics that still influence a number of metal bands lyrics to this day. We also must take into consideration that each of The Beatles (Lennon and McCartney most notably)were active with solo careers that coincided with the active period of Rush. Ronnie James Dio penned alot of extremely imaginative Medieval period inspired fantasy based lyrics with Rainbow and Black Sabbath in addition to his successful solo career. Roger Glover and Ian Gillan penned quite a few anthemic sets of rock lyrics with Deep Purple from 1970-1973, again from 1984 to 1987, and yet again from 1996 to this day. (I'm not even including their solo careers, Gillans short stint with Sabbath, or Glovers five years writing the bulk of the original Bonnet and Turner era Rainbow tunes.) David Bowie had an impressive run of lyrical concepts from 1972/73 to 1980. Let's not forget the often overlooked Bob Daisley, who wrote the bulk of the Goalby era Uriah Heep lyrics, most of the lyrics for the first 3 or 4 Ozzy lyrics (despite the lack of credit and gratitude he received for those contributions ) and his lyrical contributions to a large portion of Gary Moores discography, in addition to a number of other writing credentials. Blue Oyster Cult have collaborated to write a number of intellectual, haunting lyrical pieces. Captain Beefheart was also busy throwing together a considerable collection of chaotic, abstract (ranging from the cleverly obscene to strangely beautiful) lyrics from 1967 to 1982 or so. I'm sure I'm forgetting at least a few, but as a lyricist alone Peart had some stiff competition. I would definitely say he was the king of lyricists among drummers, though his stiffest competition in that category is rather limited (Phil Collins and Ringo Starr immediately come to mind). At any rate, Neil Peart was certainly a God of modern rock culture, with lightning fast hands and a gift for poetry.

[@davekant7489]

LLP TV's the stand

[@Mr.CliffysWorld]

@@markrago7217 .... no one said he was the ONLY ONE writing good lyrics , (you forgot Merillion BTW) Just he was on the leading edge .

[@The_Music_Sanctuary]

As a young drummer growing up in Canada in the 70's he was my idle and inspiration. Thank you for this tribute and recognition of the true artist that made the Professor, to me the greatest there is, was, and ever will be, cheers.

[@joesatchton212]

Steve: I was simultaneously smiling and sobbing throughout this brilliant tribute to Neil Peart. As time passes, we lose more and more of our musical heroes but as a Rush fanatic for nearly 40 years, Neil's passing has hit me especially hard still to this day. There aren't enough words to fully describe this once in generations human being, forever the "new guy" in a band composed of his true soul mate brothers. The tragic and cruel irony of succumbing to brain cancer was surely not lost on Neil himself in his final moments and I am sure was perhaps the most torturous part for him as a man who lived entire his life searching for knowledge and enlightenment every single day. His unmatched brilliance as a musician is really only part of the Neil Peart story. THANK YOU FOR THIS STEVE....Subbed....and this vid permanently added to my faves. RIP Neil Peart....Ride the stars and see Cygnus forever Neil - know that this world will not soon see another of your like...I'm so happy to have found you all those years ago and thank you for forever being part of the soundtrack to my life...

[@SteveHolmesDrums]

Thanks Joe - glad you enjoyed it.

[@randal_gibbons]

He was a true Renaissance man of the modern age.

[@stevenjurgens4480]

I can't believe he's gone. Greatest drummer in my opinion.

[@DavidLeBlanc]

Wow. So touching. Two months on since his passing and I still get a tear from heartfelt tributes like this. Well done.

[@scottgibson807]

Anybody who does a Neil retrospective and includes Pieces of Eight gets automatic street cred in my book! Nice job sir.

[@terrystowers6085]

I remember when Modern Drummer magazine included a floppy 45rpm of Pieces Of Eight in the pages along with his article. I think it was when he swapped his TAMA kit for those beautiful white/rose tinted Ludwigs. He wrote a great little piece explaining the switch, how he had a number of kits from various manufacturers set up in a barn so he could play and assess each of them in the same environment on the same day. I loved reading his articles, and was always excited to hear from him. He wrote like a great short story writer. I married a high school English teacher and she was very impressed by his written work. But, I’ve gotten off topic. Pieces of Eight was on my turntable for a solid week, and I eventually wore it out completely. I remember the end of the article when he wrote something like, “What more could a drummer ask for. How about Pieces of Eight becoming a hit single.” Well, it was a hit with me, so he got his wish.

[@JoolsGuitar]

He was an exceptional human being. He will be missed but never forgotten

[@leandrobarralessexteto2892]

Nunca antes habia escuchado un tema de nadie solo para escuchar la bateria, me volvio loco la primera vez q puse un cassette de Rush, no podia creer que un trio suene asi. Bajo y bateria eran un solo instrumento, increible. Escuché tantas veces los solos de Neil como a cualquier otro tema, los se de memoria. Hoy, casi 33 años después sigue siendo sorprendente. Que descanses en paz querido Neil Peart y gracias por la felicidad que nos regalaste.

[@macintalkshow]

I love that you touched on his signature ride pattern. I realized after his passing that I have just subconsciously absorbed that pattern and I default to it in my own playing constantly. I literally play the ride the way I play it because of Neil. Like, there are dozens of techniques and patterns Neil developed that I, and many others, have spent our lives trying to CONSCIOUSLY master, but the ride pattern thing, it wasn't a conscious decision. It's not like at some point in my life I said to myself, "I'm gonna play the ride with the exact same pattern as Neil from now on." It just kind of happened through osmosis. I owe Neil a lot.

[@bondalero0074]

I remember getting the “Permanent Waves” album in 80’ and with my headphones I’d air drum myself to sleep everynite!#🥁#R.I.P. NeilP.

[@herrkaliyuga]

Thanks for such a heartfelt and brilliant tribute to the great Neil Peart. His qualities were many. Personally, I grew to appreciate his structured complexity in songs: he would start with a groove and as the verses progressed he layered up ideas and created very long cycles of repetition. Truly a compositional style. I admire him more now than I ever did, and I was obsessed by his playing years back!! I'm still deeply shocked that he's gone tbh.

[@alanlucas501]

A true genius is what we lost. But we will forever bask in his truely amazing existence. His drumming and being will inspire for generations and generations to come.

[@JF-kv1gm]

A heartfelt "thank you", Steve! I think you have put into images and words what a lot of us feel but haven't been able to express. Neil was a all-round artist, blessed with incredible intellect, curiosity, openness and musical abilities. He will be missed, as will his impressions of the human condition, and his musicianship. A wonderful tribute, thank you Steve, thank you, Neil!! ♥️🙏😔

[@danielrodriguez8759]

I remember being in my garage on my electric kit playing "Vital Signs" and my my wife at the time asking me not to forget her. But Carpal tunnel claimed it's grisly prize and I became a project manager. took all my kids to see them in Atlanta and they played the full 2112 album. Nice!

[@kavemankarl2588]

2112 in its entirety... your family received the royal treatment, some have all the luck :)

[@gebirama]

resistance stretch those arms and hands the carpal tunnel will be quickly removed, get back to playing brother, you will find vids on how to resistance stretch on youtube page gebimethod be blessed

[@willdouglas1300]

Thank you for this. You did a great job with this tribute. There will never be another like Neil Peart. We are all so blessed to have experienced his lyrics and drums and philosophies.

[@mikeperron8859]

Excellent! Well done Steve. I grew up listening to them when I was 16. My first Rush concert was the 2112 tour 1976, in Ottawa, Canada. The tickets for the triple bill were $4.50...the other two performers were Max Webster and Ian Thomas. This was the first time I saw Neil do a drum solo, and I was hooked from then on. He added a whole new depth, and complexity to the kit I'd never heard before! They were one of the big names in Canada, and soon around the world. He will be terribly missed by fans and musicians alike.

[@roberta4266]

What a great tribute! Hit it right on the drum. Neil is everlasting and his music will live forever. Thank you for capturing all this, and thanks to Neil for being all this. What a legacy!

[@kevinkohlman9884]

What a fitting tribute to such a powerful force for good. Being able to overcome the tragedies he suffered and still being able to persevere and continue to inspire those who listened to his incredible craftsmanship with not only his percussion but his ability to explain complex scenarios so poetically in his lyrics. He didn't raise the bar for humanity, he was the bar.. RIP

[@brianmorrow5350]

One thing Neil talked about on occasion that I still struggle to fully comprehend was that drum playing is like a language; that you can talk to people with your drums....... He certainly was a master at this concept. It's such a beautiful way to approach the drums! I never met the man, and yet he taught me to play. He was one of a kind, and the world was lessened by his passing.

[@rnobreaks4579]

Thanks for this brother👍 i am shocked by how much his passing is effecting me.Your words are very familiar, echoing many of my sentiments. Thank you for this i will watch it and share it relentlessly.

[@danadaniels5058]

His lyrics moved my heart, penetrated my mind, and enveloped my soul at 14. Still does at 50. He will live on forever.

[@hubbsllc]

This was a wonderful tribute; thank you for making it. You touch on many of the things that were big influences on me for sure - I was telling my daughter just a few days ago how he always looked for new and different ways to ride - not just that signature pattern you mention that we all know and love, but how many times was he riding on more than one thing! He does that two different ways in “Subdivisions” alone.

[@BrianLarmay]

This is what I needed to hear. A perfect video. I dont understand how anyone can put a dislike on such a great video. Those dislikes must be from the solar federation.

[@bmc8410]

@brian larmay - They have assumed control. They have assumed control. They have assumed control.

[@dougfielding8215]

I cannot imagine what person would give this fine and heart felt tribute a thumbs down.

[@johnpatrickmatthewsmusic]

May those people suffer the itch of a thousand mosquito bites!

[@paulcherry8742]

@@johnpatrickmatthewsmusic May their earholes turn into arseholes and shit all down their necks!!

[@patriciawatkins9539]

***holes!

[@NoMoreInfo4You]

They know and do NOTHING!

[@stuartmiller7419]

Thank you, Steve. That was excellent. Hard not to get emotional at the end, so I failed with that one. A really nice retrospective and tribute from a fan and a drummer.

[@DaveTinNY]

Thank you, Steve. This brought tears to my eyes (again) for the first time since being utterly shocked by Neil's passing. I cried like I lost a close family member even though I'd never met the man. I'm 56, have been playing drums since age 13 (in 1976) and Carl Palmer was my drumming hero until I heard RUSH's Hemispheres in my high school typing class in 1978... I remember buying that first Modern Drummer magazine seeing Neil on the cover (and subscribing for years thereafter) with his incredible set of black Slingerlands - still a favorite kit right there with the Candy Apple Red kit... I bought my own CAR Tama Superstar kit in 1989 and still enjoy it to this day. Initially a five piece, it's since grown to a Neil Peart inspired sizeable beast and I replaced my trusty Roto toms with real concert toms (shells by Keller) drilled and beveled by Precision Drums in NY and CAR finished by me. As for RUSH, I saw at least one show - typically multiple shows - over the years and never missed a tour except for 1985's Power Windows when I was away in the military and couldn't get to a show. In 2008 my wife and I attended the Buddy Rich Memorial show in NYC and it was a thrill. RUSH has been my favorite rock band and Neil my favorite drummer since 1978 and they'll continue to be until I leave this planet. Thank you for putting together a classy retrospective on a class-act gentleman. Dave in NY

[@rl9808]

I have been mourning for a year and a half. Watching these tribute vids over and over. Still mourning😪

[@j.s.connolly8579]

Because Neil saw the UNIVERSE as an INTERACTIVE CLOCK and WE are ALL INTEGRAL PARTS of it!

[@alejandro_mendez_art]

Thank you for one of the most complete and insightful comments I have heard from Professor Neil Peart. He truly was a visionary who reached places where no other drummer had gone before. Hugs from CHILE

[@gballmaier]

This is one of the 1st videos I watched after Neil passed. I wanted you to know, that after tit video I watched 100s of peart and other drum videos, and finally bought a drum set. I had to come back to your video to make sure I hit the Like Button. Loved your enthusiasm. I could see us as friends having this conversation about Neil, somewhere. Thanks

[@stevehope6283]

His loss brings tears to my eyes even now. I'm not a percussionist, I've spent a little time on a kit or 2. It's the totality of this man and his zeal, humility, intelligence and his gratefulness that was Neil Peart. His gift as a lyricist, percussionist and a free thinker comes second. 2112 was the first Album I ever bought. I was the youngest of 7 and had free access to EVERYTHING that I could get on the turntable, 78s of Etta James, to 45s & Lps of the greatest. BUT Rush I did on my own and still this day they are ingrained into my soul. RIP Brother.

[@davelawson8494]

Thanks Steve, this was the best retrospective of Neil that I have seen. This covered all the bases, from his incredible technique to his character and friendship with Alex and Geddy. It had me choked up there in the end, a somewhat sorrowful reminder of a wonderful human being now departed, but his message still remains for all to appreciate.

[@rirehder]

First of all, thank you very much for compiling all this audiovisual material by master Neil Peart. So far I cannot believe that we no longer have Neil's physical presence among us. Very sad and difficult to believe and get used to it. His legacy is eternal in his music, lyrics and every beat. More than a drummer, a percussive genius, a simple person, who I believe to have tasted the good and the best, but we also follow all the sadness that surrounded him with the loss of his daughter and then his wife. Rebuilding life, starting a new family and playing again, showed how giant Neil was, how much life lesson, how much learning ... The world needs more people like him. Thank you Neil Peart. Steve Holmes, sorry for the outburst and again congratulations and thanks for the beautiful tribute to our Neil "The Professor" Peart. Rest in peace.. In Portuguese: Primeiramente, muito obrigado por compilar todo este material audiovisual do mestre Neil Peart. Até o presente momento não consigo acreditar que não temos mais a presença física de Neil entre nós. Muito triste e difícil crer e acostumar com isso. Seu legado esta eternizado em suas musicas, letras e cada batida. Mais que um baterista, um gênio percussívo, uma pessoa simples, que acredito ter provado do bom e do melhor, mas também acompanhamos toda trsiteza que rodeou com a perda de sua filha e na sequencia sua esposa. Reconstruir a vida, constituir uma nova familia e voltar a tocar, mostrou o quão gigante era Neil, quanta lição de vida, quanto aprendizado... O mundo precisa de mais pessoas como ele. Obrigado Neil Peart. Steve Holmes, desculpe pelo desabafo e mais uma vez parabéns e obrigado pela bela homenagem ao nosso Neil "The Professor" Peart. Descance em paz..

[@escargotomy]

Yeah for those who grew up on Rush music, especially the 70's and early 80's albums, its almost a no-brainer when you talk of Neil's greatness. Its funny because I'm a guitar player and I always found myself defending Alex as underrated, which he certainly was, but in doing so I was almost dismissive of Neil's almost super-human drumming prowess. I'd hear it all the time from drummers I knew..."no you don't get it, what Neil does on drums is not even comparable to Jimi Hendrix, much less Alex Lifeson". It wasn't until the last 10 years when I started listening to isolated Rush drum tracks on YT that I finally understood. Just listen to what is happening on the isolated 2112 Overture or Spirit of Radio....your jaw just gapes open! An incalculable loss.

[@nohumanape]

I was never much of a Rush fan, but as a drummer, I just loved Neil. I'm still sad that he's gone. Such a great musician and person. Great retrospective

[@warptek]

Really nice video. I literally got the chills when Camera Eye began and the lyrics appeared on screen. Hats off to you.

[@metaspherz]

I have many favorite bands, some of which I've seen in concert throughout my 72 years. Sadly, I never got a chance to see Rush perform live. But I've bought almost all of their albums, several of their movies of live performances on DVDs and Blurays, and of course, I've watched a ton of YT videos. A lot of bands get more hype and are more famous but most of them have had only a few great hits. Rush has had many great albums and I don't know of any other band that has had as many great songs. That's due in part to Neil Peart's lyrics and the band's musical brilliance. There is no greater trio -- or I should say -- there was no greater trio.

[@dhogan1967]

Really well done, thank you for this Steve. Rush was such a huge part of my life growing up, they seriously helped me get the through my teen years. Still liove to jam to Rush till this day and they continue to be my favorite band. Just heart broken over Neils passing. He was one of a kind and such an incredibly creative and insightful human being. RIP Neil.

[@JimAllen-Persona]

You don’t get the nickname of “The Professor”, you earn it. RIP Neil. Happy you’re with Selena and Jackie again even if you never believed it to be true.

[@anon7219]

My first Rush concert was June 16, 1992 at Merriwether Post Pavilion in Columbia, MD. It was about 100 degrees with 99% humidity, and this was an outdoor venue. I had a broken ankle and was on crutches. Mr. Big opened for them. After this concert, I was hooked.I went to every Rush concert I could get to from that point on. One of my fondest memories of Neil was when he did that 7 minute solo during YYZ and his set was spinning on stage... He threw his sticks into the audience, and I caught one. Still got it, framed with the ticket stub April 26, 1994 at US Air Arena in DC! RIP, Professor!

[@thomasvarady1210]

Loved the ending with Hemispheres & pics to catch the mood. These guys were so successful by not only just being guys in a band, they had a true bond. They truly had love & respect for one another. Bands don't last 40 years with drugs & egos...

[@moonfive9065]

Neil's drumming musicality was truly unmatched.

[@Mick0722MX]

Ridiculous. Sure, he was a skilled and colorful pioneer, but unmatched? Not even close.

[@moonfive9065]

@@Mick0722MX His "musicality", yes unmatched. It's an opinion. I'm not specifically referring to his technical skill, which is obvious, but instead to his muscial contribution to a song, every song. Can't think of another drummer doing the same.

[@moonfive9065]

@@Mick0722MX And, I'm not ridiculing anybody or anything when I offer this opinion.

[@Mick0722MX]

@@moonfive9065 I know you can't think of other drummers doing the same because you never listened to them. You really have no idea what's out there.

[@Mick0722MX]

It's not about picking a fight. You just don't know what you're talking about.

[@darrenfesperman4578]

I was blessed to see them in concert on numerous occasions! When you could move about the arena without any questions as to where you were going or what you were doing. I would always make my to a vantage point so I could watch every movement Neil made! Wonderful memories! Thank you for allow us to revisit a truly amazing musician!

[@josephmourino1383]

Rest in peace my brother forever you will be the professor of percussion

[@patricktiglao]

Four years later. Steve, the closing segment where "The Sphere" plays is tear jerking. Thanks for doing this man. As Neil was a huge one for me too..Years later it still hits a soft spot.

[@DanielScanlon463]

Thank you for that amazing retrospective. Neil was the "be-all-end-all" of his craft and a top-rung lyricist. May Neil Rest in Peace 😞

[@j.drapel7747]

Legendary drumming, legendary lyricism. - R. I. P. Neil Peart - Thanks for this fabulous retrospective

[@supergrovah2729]

Fantastic tribute Steve. Thank you for doing and sharing it. That montage at the end brought me to tears.....Talk about a heartfelt loss. This old heart is still broken from losing him, but we have SOOOOO much to remember him by. Again, thank you for sharing. Rest in peace, Neil. Thanks from a fan....

[@tomlarsen5451]

How loud a rock band could be and when the crowd was so loud it overwhelms the sound of the band, too say the fans were super into rush would be a under statement! Rush Rush Rush !

[@493john]

Steve, I've watched this over and over again. This is a great tribute to Neil. I'm 49, started playing when I was 12. 1st Rush album was Moving Pictures, 1st concert was Power Windows @ Joe Louis Arena in Detroit. Your story of growing up being inspired by his playing, his drum sets and the music of rush is my story and the story of thousands of other drummers like us. Again, GREAT JOB!

[@drumsforfunspooner673]

Wow... Said Beautifully About A Very Amazing Musician, Man & All Around Awesome Human Being... I Just Started Playing Drums & Right Before Neil's Passing I Bought A Pair Of Drumsticks That Neil Had Signed.. They Are Wrapped In A Bandana With A Rose Tied In The Middle... I've Never Used Them & Their Resting Infront On Top Of My Bass Drum.. So Neil Is With Me With Every Practice, Song & Beat I Play... My Heart Goes Out To His Family.. 😔 Neil Will Always Be My Momenter.. R.I.P. Neil... Remembered For An Eternity....🤘🥁💜🌹

[@scottfarnham2717]

That was awesome! Thank you! We all miss him and Rush. What a wonderful tribute!

[@timdubeau9152]

I'm so glad I was able to see Rush as many times as I have in my life time! I never really notice the drummer until I heard Neil for the first time. He really made great music with those drums!👍👍💕💕💕

[@theflymo]

Thank you Steve. This is the best, most sensitive and above all relatable retrospective of Mr Peart I've seen. So much of the way many of us think, feel, listen and play- both inside and outside of drumming- are because of that man. Thanks for crystallising those feelings so eloquently.

[@lazur1]

I can't imagine what Rush's music'd be like without Peart's drumming.

[@terrymiller111]

Yes you can. First album. Keep up. ;-/

[@lazur1]

@@terrymiller111 That's what Rush DID sound like, not would. If the Beatles never had Ringo, they also wouldn't have Pete Best, and wouldn't be doing "I Wanna Hold Your hand" five years later.

[@tomrobbins6211]

I have no illusions of knowing Neil - but I know his music, dedication, and for these three to stay together that long, and the way he went out... well I love him as much as one can love another that they have never met or got to know personally. I still get a lump in my throat thinking about this fact that he is no longer with us. God bless you Neil... for this nerdy and troubled traveler, you helped keep my head above water, and brought out my best at times. I am not depressed about it, I just miss RUSH - they extended my youth and excitement and drive for so many decades. My Dad was an end of an Era, but loosing RUSH was the end of my life's theme songs, that thing I could always trust and love. I saw them one time in Houston, and I had the flu, and felt so bad...but the closer we got, and as the first notes of Tom sawyer played, I literally felt my flu had gone..and it did, at least for three hours. The mind is primary and everything else is secondary to support consciousness.. keep seeking the "uncool", the stuff that is the real deal.

[@sduffman7015]

Thank you Steve. I grew up listening to Rush and loved them. When Neil passed it actually hit me that time is passing. I know his spirit is out there exploring the great unknown soaking up new knowledge.

[@johnnyriverarodriguez5283]

Thanks for this. Been a fan for 40 years and have never felt so close to them until this year. I'm glad to be, what my daughter calls, a Rush nerd. Well done.

[@rjathar]

WTF are these people who gave this a thumbs down?! Not only was this a great tribute, but what set it apart is the genuine love and admiration that the creator has for Neil and the band... I too think that Rush and Neil were generational talents I'll part with this for those still on the fence... These lyrics are from Witch Hunt on moving pictures... Tell me they aren't more relevant now than they've ever been?? ... The righteous rise With burning eyes Of hatred and ill-will Madmen fed on fear and lies To beat and burn and kill They say there are strangers who threaten us Our immigrants and infidels They say there is strangeness, too dangerous In our theatres and bookstore shelves Those who know what's best for us Must rise and save us from ourselves Quick to judge Quick to anger Slow to understand Ignorance and prejudice And fear, walk hand in hand ... I mean... Really... Can anyone possibly say it any better??

[@lucgagnon1458]

I simply love it, outstanding! All your comments/descriptions made me realize that I appreciate Neal, not only for drumming, but the true genuine person he his… through his music and lyrics. Well done!

[@asianzeusecannon5880]

My very first concert, then came Mr.Peart with his amazing drum solo,He made me pick up a stick n made a big fan of his.best three man band ever.

[@jessewoo3838]

He lead a wonderful life and we were lucky that he shared it along the way. My music teacher was a huge fan in high school and she used to quote Rush lyrics, confused the hell out of us. My favourite line about Neil was " most drummers use a metronome to keep perfect time, metronomes use Neil Peart "

[@nunancreative8932]

Thanks for doing this Steve. It brought a tear and mirrored the way many of us feel about Neil even a year after his death.

[@feliperoos9476]

4 years later, this editing made me cry. Again.

[@skyko]

Hi Steve, you did a truly excellent job on this, thank you. So authentic and from the heart. Closer to the heart... RIP Neil.

[@danielunderhill6086]

I feel very fortunate to have been influenced by Rush and Neil’s drumming when I first started playing drums at age 16 back in 1982. Everything in this video resonates with me wholeheartedly and demonstrates the passion many people have for Neil’s many talents and the music of Rush. I hope that future generations will continue to appreciate what these musicians have accomplished and find inspiration for their own musical journey.

[@turningpoint4me]

Thank you for such a thougthtful and respectful tribute to the late great Neil Peart RIP

[@jimp.669]

Thank you Steve for such a thoughtful and informed retrospective of the best at his craft, Neil Peart. Rush started to be my band in 76 with the release of the double live album "All the World's a Stage" and 2112 was like an addiction for me. I needed to hear it everyday for quite some time! It wasn't until 1981 that I saw Rush live for the first time. I live across d' border from Quebec in Vermont and we traveled to the Montreal Forum (just before they tore it down) on a summer night to see Rush on their Moving Pictures Tour. They opened with Limelight and went on to present the best musical performance I have ever experienced at a rock concert. The bucket sized Bradors they served at the Forum flowed freely and it truly was one of the best nights of my life (how we got back across the border...I don't know). I was not aware that Neil authored so much of their material, I guess I just always assumed Geddy was the song writer. Thanks for that information. All that wonderful sound from a trio. I'll never stop listening. Neil, Geddy, and Alex - each great on their own, but always better as one. Love Ya Neil!

[@tambourini]

Thank you Steve Holmes! Anyone going to Lakeside Park tomorrow? It's the 24th of May!

[@radblondie8881]

I cannot tell you how much this tribute means to me personally. Especially the nods to Natural Science and Losing It; two songs that have shaped my life. Thank you, Steve.

[@dilligafmofoker]

Neil was a profound influence on me. As a gen X’r that owns every Rush album...this is a great description of Neil and his awesome work. He was also an author who traveled on his GS and RT between shows, mostly alone, but occasionally with his BIL. He is sorely missed and will never be replaced or forgotten. I’ll lift a glass of The Macallan; his favorite. Cheers to a legend.

[@latentsea]

Great tribute! Been loving Neil since childhood, 1975 Caress of steel. Saw them many times. Thank you for this tribute!

[@jeffholliday8304]

His timing was impeccable The lyrics he wrote was pure genius

[@aboczsr]

Nice job Steve, probably one of the best tributes that I've seen so far. It brought tears to my eyes. I miss being able to see the band live and listening to new records every few years or so. Their songs were the backdrop to my life. I was fortunate to have found them early and to have seen them many times.