Alex Lifeson on the hardest Rush song | On The Record

▶ READ MORE: www.ultimate-guitar.com/news/...
Rock titan Alex Lifeson is co-founder of Rush, and the only member who was part of the band's lineup from 1968. An unrivalled guitarist, Lifeson's known for some of the world's most intricate and commanding rock solos, and now performs with Envy Of None.
In this special On The Record interview, Alex discusses his custom Les Paul, why he prefers Gibson over Fender and his thoughts on the evolution of the guitar. He also shares what Rush song was the hardest to play, why he was temporarily kicked out the studio when recording 'Moving Pictures' and his moving experience playing in the Taylor Hawkins tribute show.
Dive into the whole interview and discover guitar tabs to your favorite Rush and Envy of None songs on the Ultimate Guitar site.
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▬▬▬▬▬▬ Contents ▬▬▬▬▬▬
0:00 - Intro
0:50 - On his Mojotone Lerxst Amplifier
2:55 - On his guitar tone
3:53 - On his Epiphone Les Paul
5:34 - On Gibson vs Fender
6:34 - On the evolution of guitars
8:06 - The most challenging Rush song
8:44 - On the classical influence in Rush
10:20 - On Counterparts & his favorite solo
12:22 - Composing solos
13:41 - Taylor Hawkins tribute show
16:04 - On working with Geddy Lee again
17:54 - Outro
#rush #rock #interview

[@rhondacasper5725]

He is the most humble and personable guy to be a rock star! Not arrogant at all. I had the privilege to meet him in 2004 when his yacht came in to dock at a restaurant where I was having lunch in Naples Fl. When I saw it was him I hurried outside down to the yacht. He then invited me aboard helping me step down and introduced me to his wife and little grandchild. Chatted for a few minutes with sincere interest that I was a fan. Thanked me for my support as he had been unfairly treated by Naples police at a New Year’s Eve event at Ritz Carlton Naples. Such a gracious and amazing human being!

[@albundy6008]

Geddy is the same way. I heard him in an interview say that soon after the band started to make money, they decided to split everything evenly, publishing rights, writing credits, and money.

[@brucelee4996]

​@@albundy6008I like Geddy's show on Paramount+. Geddy Lee: Are Bass Player's Human Too.

[@burgundylust]

....and an excellent guitarist too! 😊

[@makanmata]

I have no doubt that this is completely true. If you search here you will find a video of Alex in a guitar store in Tokyo and his discussion with the proprietor just chatting about guitars. Such a humble and generous man without any affectation whatsoever. I don't imagine that Geddy would be any different . . . although I decided not to bother him when I saw him in a restaurant once.

[@ObjectorSnark]

@@albundy6008 nobody slacking in that trio

[@wandajames143]

I’m hitting 90 this week and I saw them back in the day with my grandson, never looked back!

[@ronniek7748]

Good for you!!

[@HEDGE1011]

Happy birthday and rock on!

[@MarkandSandieInMotion]

Wow! That’s awesome

[@metricdeep8856]

Happy B-day! 3 months late. Cheers!

[@mariocooldude9092]

Hahahah 😂you ain't "90" 😂 90 year olds can't even figure out how to turn on a computer 🖥️💻

[@Afurthyclays]

Guy's freaking cool! 🤣 How can you not like him? Thanks for a lifetime of amazing music, Alex! 🤘

[@TheChef470]

He's underrated because he's understated. So laid back such a regular guy. Just another reason we love Rush so much they were all like that. Rock Gods that didn't act like Rock Gods.......long live Rush. : )

[@scottmiller1729]

Coolest guitar player ever!

[@dontworrybehappy8080]

Yup. Humble as F'k. Just like the other two. It's really hard not to be able to appreciate these guys. Both in the beginning into today.

[@mrbass1310]

A pure gentleman, a musical genuis at that.

[@frankdiscussion2069]

one of the greatest rock guitarists of all time

[@stevet9938]

No question!

[@rogerc23]

Of that there is no doubt. But is he top 10 top 5 top 3 or higher?

[@mikemccarthy6939]

@@rogerc23top 50 unfortunately

[@rogerc23]

How are you ranking them? @@mikemccarthy6939

[@jeremycleary2002]

@@mikemccarthy6939unfortunately? Even if top 50 that’s an amazing accomplishment. To me he’s top 10 but he’s my #1

[@shawndoucette9797]

Been a fan since I was a child. I’m 53 now and this guy has always been a class act. Love them all. R.I.P. Professor.

[@kimmorepo6870]

Could've been written by me.

[@lynettelloyd4374]

Or me

[@stavard]

52 here. Rush is the Soundtrack to my life.

[@Theylieohio]

Alex seems so down to earth, the kinda guy that would stop and talk to a fan.

[@janicefrantz1831]

My friends and I waited out by the RUSH limo behind the Amphitheater, in Chicago, back at the Farewell To Kings tour. About two hours after the show ended, Rush emerged from the building and were walking toward their limo, where we were. They ignored us and climbed in the back of the limo. We thought, WTF? Then, after about a minute, the window goes down, and Alex asked us if it was just us 7 out there. We said yes. With that, the door opens, Geddy and Alex get out and sit on the limo hood. They talked to us for about 10 minutes about all kinds of stuff. They signed autographs, too. They told us that Neil wasn't feeling well, that's why he stayed in the limo. Super cool guys, taking time with their fans. I'll never forget it.

[@ENIGMVTIK]

@@janicefrantz1831 "Wasn't feeling well" likely meant "is not interested in shooting the breeze with strangers," given his general feelings on the matter.

[@michaelconvery8871]

I’ve met Alex a few times because he lives not far from me. He’s a class act all the way. If he has time he’ll chat with you. He’s even come and sat at my table at a bar and had a beer with us. Really great guy and super funny…Canadian all the way!

[@michaelconvery8871]

I’ve met Alex a few times because he lives not far from me. He’s a class act all the way. If he has time he’ll chat with you. He’s even come and sat at my table at a bar and had a beer with us. Really great guy and super funny…Canadian all the way!

[@Theylieohio]

@@michaelconvery8871 that’s Awesome, I’ve seen rush 5 times twice in the front row. Signals and Grace under pressure.

[@kevinberger3501]

Three brilliantly talented musicians who fully expressed themselves in the exact same band for their entire careers, sharing credit equally. That's rare and beautiful.

[@mattmagilke2433]

“Without Neil it can never be Rush. That’s it. It’s over.” 💯% Agree!

[@wingracer1614]

Very true but man they sound so good with Danny Carey. It's like Danny inherited Neal's soul. He's the one guy I'd love to see them do a reunion tour with

[@LD-qj2te]

mike port it would work .

[@TG-vg3qe]

Same way RP feels about LZ without JB.

[@Psychodermia]

@@TG-vg3qe Does JP agree with RP, that with jb, it's close, but he's not JB, so it's just not LZ? 👽✌️

[@TG-vg3qe]

@@Psychodermia I think JP would have reformed the band with a new drummer years ago if RP had gone along with it. But...RP probably can't sing the parts any longer.

[@user-vi2uf7vc3j]

Tragically criminally underrated guitarist just look at the guitar parts this man has created over the years unbelieveable

[@yamahasuperbike2202]

Alex has never been underrated.

[@trjb1767]

under rated by who?

[@JoeSmith-ey2xp]

I wish nothing but happiness for this wonderful man.

[@LoganPEade]

Surprisingly "Hemispheres" never gets mentioned. I of course love everything Rush has done but Hemispheres has always been my personal favorite!

[@hraith]

Hemispheres... this is the way.

[@joe1972]

As much as I loved his tone on farewell to kings, I much preferred hemispheres. Think the chorus effect had a lot to do with it. For me, the goldilocks zone between straight guitar & amp and over processed was hemispheres, permanent waves, and moving pictures.

[@e3uphoric51]

same

[@user-hf9vf9kf8t]

Hemispheres is their best song period. I love Xandu , A Farewell To kings and 2112 are great but I am a Hemispheres person.

[@LoganPEade]

@@user-hf9vf9kf8tI think I could have explained my meaning better, what I meant was the entire Hemispheres album not just the title track, lol I didn't mean to be misleading!

[@gogozeppeli]

This man is a living legend 🙌

[@valuedhumanoid6574]

He is not joking about Natural Science. Of all the Rush catalog, that is one of the hardest to get under your fingers. Alex is one of my heroes on the instrument and he's the one I copies my collection from. I have his Epi signature and it's my number one. They sold out immediately so I had to pay three weeks salary to get one, but I don't care. It's now mine and my go to for any genre, especially Rush songs. And my fave of all time is Limelight. It is the first song I learned, including the solo (my version of it) and I play it over a backing track on open mic night at my local club. It's always a crowd favorite, even though the crowd was 11 people last time. You gotta start somewhere!

[@STSGuitar16]

I’ve personally never found Natural Science to be all that hard, tbh. The hardest part is that second guitar solo, but the rest of it is pretty standard stuff, imo. I find songs like La Villa Strangiato or YYZ to be much more demanding as far as guitar goes. I was honestly surprised to hear Alex say Natural Science there. I know in the past he has talked about how difficult it was to record the Hemispheres album (my personal favorite Rush album) and that they eventually had to resort to recording their parts separately for some thing like La Villa. But yeah, Natural Science feels pretty standard to me 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@valuedhumanoid6574]

@@STSGuitar16 I would agree with that. When Natural Science really get's groovin' and he launches that second solo, it makes it tough to keep it right. I find myself cheating and skipping notes. Just not good enough yet!

[@STSGuitar16]

@@valuedhumanoid6574 for me, that second solo is the only truly difficult part about the song. I’ve never truly sat down and actually learned the fast parts of that solo note for note, though. What makes that answer more interesting is the fact that Alex improvised all of his solos for their albums, including that second solo in NS. Obviously it is much easier to just improvise those really fast, shreddy parts vs writing them before and having to learn them note for note (Alex always kinda improvised/changed up the fast parts of that solo when they played it live, too, and sometimes they actually just skip that solo entirely), so I wonder what it was that tripped Alex up during that recording process. As far as I know, those really fast parts are more or less just “gibberish” and don’t necessarily follow one scale or key, so when it gets to that part, you (and Alex) kinda just have to let ‘er rip lol. I wouldn’t even bother attempting to learn the fast parts note for note; Alex really didn’t go back and repeat it the same way every time either. Just find two or three separate shreddy hand positions that kinda make sense, turn on the jets, try to keep your alternate picking as clean as you can, and then you can kinda bs your way through that section lol. I really don’t think it’s cheating considering that was basically the same approach Alex took to playing that solo live as well lol. Most Alex solo sections are best played note for note, but there are several songs that feature that really fast shredding style that aren’t as important to play exactly the same. Alex was/is just a master.

[@gmmakesmehurl]

Funny thing is i find that one easy. The Spirit of Radio is the most difficult for me. Weird!

[@thebaneofyourexistence.3377]

@@gmmakesmehurlthat song is killer to me

[@fokeyjo]

I don't need Alex and Geddy to be playing together again.. great that they're doing different things, fans will get twice the amount of output from these two very exceptional people. I just want them to stay happy doing what they like, they earned it 😊

[@Primemover71]

Very underrated guitarist he has amazing body of work. He’s laid down some incredible riffs, but if you really want to appreciate his work, just listen to his stuff on power Windows, even though it’s a driven album, the textures and the phrase he created are amazing.

[@zendisciple3737]

Power Windows and Grace Under Pressure are my two favourite Rush albums for guitar and not just for Rush, my favourite guitar records period.

[@westoftherockies]

@@zendisciple3737 listen to the guitar work in signals,its not loud but its in the background kinda, signals is one of my favorite albums.

[@haroldconner6265]

Underrated?? I remember him beating RR on guitar player magazine... Alex is not underrated!

[@zendisciple3737]

@@westoftherockies Love the guitar work on Signals and Permanent Waves and Moving Pictures. Alex is my favourite guitarist, so I tend to like the vast majority of his work, though I have certain preferences.

[@wingracer1614]

The Limelight solo is forever stuck in my top 3 of all time.

[@michaelyolch79]

I just want to give Alex a freaking hug. I’ve been in absolute awe of RUSH since I stood in front of them in 1984 on their Grace Under Pressure tour.

[@Mike80528]

My first Rush tour as well. I just Missed out on Moving Pictures and they skipped my region for Signals (no open venues). Only missed Snakes and Arrows after that...

[@michaelvandiver2475]

Wow...exactly what I'd say...became a fan in 1983 then saw them in ATL on their GUP 1984 tour...blown away and in absolute awe and astonishment! Super fan to this day at 54 yrs old.

[@brianshaffneraclc]

@@michaelvandiver2475 Me too, pretty much...became a fan shortly after the MP tour ended, wasn't really going to concerts yet in the Signals portion, and P/G was the first. They sold out two nights at the venue and added a third, saw two of those, mind blowing musicianship, still remember those shows!

[@esefare2953]

First RUSH concert was the Grace Under Pressure tour.Was a fan before and always will be.Thank you 3 wonderfully gifted musicians for all the music you've shared with your fans throughout the years.

[@brucedelaney9606]

I never really liked rush through all the years. Then I saw their documentary and fell in love with them. I love how they have the same manager from when they were playing churches. I’d love how Getty and Alex are still BFFs after four decades of mayhem I love how, they worked with Neal and never questioned what he wanted to do when he had the most difficult decisions in the world. I love how they just took him back when he was ready and never questions a thing they moved on without missing a beat. And their songs are beyond difficult to play And sing. And when they play live in concert, it’s beyond the albums, which I think technically is impossible. I love that he’s here today talking to you so honestly smiling happy. My favorite part when you asked him which was the most difficult song, and his answer was everyone we played. That is so funny. Thank you so much for this.

[@avlisk]

My Rush journey sounds like yours. I'm 72 and never paid any attention to them until last year I started watching their interviews, dinners, RNRHOF speeches, and documentaries. Their personalities drew me in and now, I'm beginning to listen to the music. Impossible to play live is true, but somehow, they do it. YYZ and Villa Strangiato are my current favorites.

[@michaelturner6030]

It’s kinda ironic Rush became as popular as ever during the internet era which allowed everyone to see them for who they are.

[@user-zt2wc3uh1l]

*Geddy

[@C_Melvyn_James]

Welcome to the fold.

[@ObjectorSnark]

@@michaelturner6030 the only band for whom history and the internet continue to uncancel as the stories pile up.

[@RogerPilcher]

A criminally underrated genius and one of my absolute favorite guitarists over the years. And he has always seemed like a great, down to earth, guy.

[@ThePaulv12]

Criminally underrated by who exactly?

[@Bixll09]

I was lucky enough to meet Alex and Geddy in Italy last fall. We were all on our way back to Canada at the airport in Venice. Big thrill for me.

[@ericjencson9489]

Thank you, Alex, for stating the fact that without Neil, there is no Rush. I thoroughly enjoyed this interview. Thank you for your time.

[@johnmcleod8961]

I'm 64 yo...I cut some of my rock n roll teeth on Rush way back in the day...when I first heard their very first album, I was instantly a fan and haven't looked back since...AL is probably one of my all-time favorite guitar players...I would love nothing more than to have just half of his guitar skills for just one day...he's simply amazing with his technical skills but mostly his creativity and energy...I admire him immensely...as a Rush fan, I would still love for him and Geddy to get up and put something out together...it's MHO that the fans aren't expecting a RUSH II-type era...we'd just love to hear them jam just the way they are...and please, I'm not minimizing the contributions of Neil...we just love them all...please, please, please come together and do something...the fans are realistic in their expectations.

[@stevepearlman3421]

King Lerxst ! The greatest lead Guitarist ever, a polished , talented performer and entertainer who had a compelling yet unassuming stage presence. Best of all, along with his iconic Band mates Prat and Dirk the World of Music, composition, lyrics arrangements, melodies and rhythms were enriched beyond all that preceded and followed them. I ADORE Rush, always have and always will. RIP the Drum Messiah Neil Peart…..

[@NoLegalPlunder]

I also love his tone in the 70s. His tone on Caress of Steel is among my favorite tones of all time.

[@brendanroberts4866]

they seem to over look this - im not a fan post hemispheres (although permanent waves has its moments - natural science, jacobs ladder) - Im not keen on moving pictures or "Rush" 1st LP - yet MP is always raved about - any different strokes ...

[@aschule5684]

Caress of Steel was my introduction to RUSH and will forever be that special album for that pot smoking aspiring guitar player kid waaaaaay back in the mid 70's

[@williamsporing1500]

Back In the early to mid 70’s I was playing in a band. We played all kinds of stuff from Yes to Allman bros. During a break, some girl walked up to me and told me how much she liked us. I said thanks. She asked if we do any Rush? I said who? Never heard of them. Next day I did some digging around and found an album at the record store. I was hooked!! The next week they came to town on the 2112 tour. Blew my mind…….

[@Winterfell1066]

Alex Lifeson was always one of my favorite guitar players. The first Rush Album for me was Permanent Waves. It opened the world of Rush to me. Miss that band.

[@drooskeedoo3388]

That's the album where I "got it". Before that I didn't understand the appeal.

[@tmm4461]

@@drooskeedoo3388 It's interesting that artists that have long careers, have "key" albums that help you to understand all their other albums past and future. For example for me it was King Crimson's song Fracture (loved the earlier stuff and 80's, 90's and 00's afterwards) and for Captain Beefheart it was album Trout Mask Replica (all their albums became palatable afterwards, even the "hated" ones). For Rush it was brilliance from first to counterparts, should focus on 90's, 00's and 10's next.

[@apexerman1]

Permanent Waves was my intro to Rush as well. Hearing Spirit of the Radio, I HAD to buy that album. Oh what a journey that would take since then.

[@jackstraw522]

I’ve never been a big Rush fan, but I’ve always loved his playing, he never got enough credit for their sound

[@Newworldman66]

Indeed, the Rush sound, I would suggest, is mostly down to Alex.

[@jesusisalive3227]

As im watching this, 2112 started running through my head. I can play that entire song in my head! My Dad introduced me to Rush as a kid 40 years ago. Thanks Dad!

[@jayorozco8432]

If there's three nicer guys than. Alex,Geddy,andNeil I would like to meet them!! The fact of the matter is there is no one like these 3 friends who grew up with a real passion for each other and the music they created. Every now and then the planets line up just right. And that's when miracles happen.. and bless people like ourselves who are simply Rush fans are blessed to have such outstanding music in our lives to help us cope with sometimes the daily struggles of life itself. And yes I'm one of the many people who heard 2112 for the first time and it literally changed my life. I went and bought a guitar and not knowing how to read music or tabs at that time learn how to play the 2112 album front to back.

[@bsimp07]

To his point about Counterparts.. Ive long believed that is one of their most underrated albums. Cool to hear he loves that album.

[@jamesnoble3502]

I don't know that he loves the album per se I know he complained in the past about having to make too many compromises during the making of it and didn't like some of the lyrics specifically Stick it Out. Neil wasn't particularly happy with it, apparently he intensely disliked his drumming on Cut To The Chase and Geddy and Alex had some big arguments during the recording of it. It was a transitional record to get back to a heavier sound after multiple albums of light poppy thin sounding music

[@mattd6086]

I think Cut to the Chase is his best guitar solo of any song on any album after Signals.

[@WonkyHalo]

⁠@@jamesnoble3502 Dude,’light poppy thin sounding music’ seriously?! It was by far their Halcyon period!!

[@jamesnoble3502]

@@WonkyHalo the Rupert Hine albums?

[@Disciple_Of_Lerxst]

That was a GREAT interview! Actually like no other I've ever heard with Alex. Really laid back and candid. Anyone notice the guitars behind him, the '59 reissue Tele, the black PRS, his old 335. Up in the corner, was that the red Strat in the Distant Early Warning video? And, I thought he got rid of his original 355. Must be one of those copies, and of course all those Axcesses. It's kinda funny how Geddy blames Alex's health for not being able to work on new material, and Alex says Geddy is too busy. I don't think it's ever gonna happen, but I'm thankful for what they gave us!

[@funkster007]

I noticed the white 355 too and thought it was auctioned off. Unless he had a couple of them or got the original back.

[@justimprovising]

There were three prototypes made when Gibson was designing the copy of the original (which was sold at auction) - Alex has one of those prototypes

[@howardcrosby4388]

SO underrated!! I’m 63, was turned onto Rush at 14, they’ve been my favorite band ever since!!! RIP Professor Peart!!!

[@Mission2Transition641]

Im glad Alex mentioned COUNTERPARTS album. One of my top RUSH albums. It made me re-discover RUSH , after the keyboard, synth 80's albums. More heavy and guitar dominated.

[@drooskeedoo3388]

That album had great mixing, especially compared to Presto and RTB. That was just a great rock album, not just a Rush one.

[@aschule5684]

Great album and one of my very favorite. So grateful to have seen them on that tour also!

[@wrinkleneckbass]

There's always been something magical about the music that Alex and Geddy create together. I would love to hear what they'd come up with at this point in their lives, even if it's just an instrumental tune.

[@STSGuitar16]

I’d personally love just an album of instrumentals from them. Of course, a lot of the magic in the Rush instrumentals came from Neil, but Geddy and Alex with a rotating cast of top notch drummers doing a new album of instrumentals would be incredible.

[@alicethroughthelookingglass]

RUSH was "my modern day Mozart". Man, it's been 50 years, hard to believe. Love you, Lerxsty Lerxst! Your fangirl from the start, Alice.

[@gary8411]

Great Interview. Alex is a AWESOME songwriter and musician. And a AWESOME guitar player. Envy Of None is an amazing record. Hope Envy of None make more music. He is a plethora of knowledge And a joy to listen to him talk about it. CHEERS! 🤘🤘🤘👍

[@paulfitzpatrick6566]

Totally agree. Lifeson is a highly underrated guitarist. Saw Rush on the Permanent Waves & Moving Pictures tour in London. Awesome band. Highly creative. Played the whole of 2112 & the classic track La Villa Strangiato & the highly intricate Limelight & Tom Sawyer, Red Barchetta from MP. Best rock drummer Neil Peart in history. Superlative

[@canadianroot]

Awful. Zero interaction. Interviewer was extremely wooden. Questions were fine, and Alex opened up nicely, though.

[@mikesmusicden]

One of my all-time favorite musicians; Alex is creative and intelligent in his compositions, and yet still manages to convey a sense of fun in his playing. Great interview!

[@andyharman3022]

One thing I've appreciated about Alex over the years is how all of his solos are different. Each one a has a theme and structure all its own, so it could be named. I'm blown away by the fact that he didn't sit down and compose each one, but just winged them in 3 or 4 takes. I think that shows his artistry. If he and Geddy want to make music, I'll be listening with open ears. Not expecting Rush, but hoping to hear them moving forward.

[@philduoos2961]

In another interview Alex said that he would do 3 or 4 solos - I couldn't tell if he meant different variations or completely different solos. Then Geddy and the producer would take those and take the best parts and mash them together, often in different order. "Wasn't that hard to play what they came up with?" "We'll yeah - but I had played the notes before, just not in that order - but I told myself I had played them before!" He also said how early on he would work with them and change things - but after awhile he came to realize they knew what worked best and just trusted them with whatever they came up with. Pretty amazing to have three great musicians with very little ego to get in the way of each other.

[@JokersWild70]

Alex is such a good guy, and so underrated as a musician. Im glad that Rush was around for over 40 years and gave us so much music to continue to listen to. Theres nothing more that can be said about the greatness of Neil that hasnt already been said. RIP Professor. We miss you

[@joebagodonuts3040]

Alex and his two best friends made this world a better place to live in. Providing some of the most brilliant masterpieces ever to be written and played by humans. These timeless Musical Picassos will be enjoyed for a very long time.

[@Guitarzan8]

Thank you Alex! For sharing your talent with us through your albums and live performances. And putting up with those robotic questions. And allowing an interview on a channel with only 21k subs. What a down to earth human!

[@PatrickPowers2112]

Such a great guy. And probably the most under-rated guitar player ever. I really hope he and Geddy continue to work together. Rush is why I started playing bass.

[@markpowers7823]

Rush may be over, as Alex said. But their music will live on, and continue to inspire, new, and old musicians. I saw them 3 times, Hemispheres being the first. I tell people they wrote the soundtrack of my youth, Lol. Thank you Rush, for all the music!

[@craigkelm488]

What a great guy... So down to earth. Great player that never got the recognition he deserved. Making some of the greatest music of all time. Bless you Alex!

[@BrianKlobyGuitar]

Awesome interview. Alex Lifeson is a huge influence.. He is super unique and I love his playing. I've always felt he has been underrated.. his talent is beyond measure and he always gets massive tone from his guitar and amp setup... thanks for this video of him! 🎸☕

[@thomasmorris2245]

Limelight is one of the Best Rock songs- Plus many more

[@BrianKlobyGuitar]

Yeah... Limelight do have an ass kicking solo... I like his guitar work on the "A Farewell to Kings" album a lot... 2112... everything really... he has always been on the cutting edge IMO...@@thomasmorris2245

[@evracer]

As a long-time Rush fan, I am completely OK with the end of Rush given the circumstances from a musical standpoint. However, I wouldn't care if it were Alex and Ged touring the zoo, the two of them interacting is gold. Them just being themselves is so wholesome, inspirational, and hilarious....and it never gets old with me. I can certainly understand how it can't be Rush, and I actually appreciate not attempting it. But I would love to see them do something. I wouldn't even care if I was into it. But I want to see them do it for THEIR sake, because of the musical bond that they have as well.

[@donhimmelman1736]

i agree to that it wouldn't be rush without Neil but if they did do something to honor their brand of music there are a multitude of us fans who never had the honor to see them live have a slight chance of what it felt like hear those those songs live.

[@rondipierro8677]

Thank you for all the music Alex

[@Rmesick-hm6yq]

Alex's sense of humor is incredible. I love his line during the closing credits of the "Beyond the Lighted Stage" video. He and Geddy get asked why they still tour after 40 years. Alex's answer: "Chicks" . LMAO. Great stuff. I count myself lucky as I've gotten to see them live. Rush rules.

[@maximilianodelrio]

Alex has such a unique and awesome style. From his ever changing, always amazing tones, to his great and interesting chord choices and solos

[@CaliforniaBushman]

As a drummer (and Rush fan since 1981), I was so damn surprised Omar Hakim was playing with Getty & Alex. Omar with them would be so incredible!

[@kevinc7286]

I think the most exciting thing in this video is that Envy Of None is working on a new album. I love me some rush, but if I’d be more excited to get Envy of None to put out a new album and do some shows. With 2 records, they could definitely do a 90 minute to 2 hour show. Probably won’t happen, bc Alex seems against touring again (with Envy or Geddy), but one can dream.

[@richardseebacher6629]

Great interview. This guy along with his two band mates have been a part of my life for over 40 years

[@dansouth2088]

I'm kinda new to Rush. Didn't start listening to them until the mid/late 70's. It always fun to hear them chat, thank you for doing the interview.

[@geob3963]

Thank you Alex for the amazing music. Your hard work and influence has raised the bar of excellence. The world is better because of it.

[@henram36]

Such an all-around good guy. Really impresses me how good of a guitarist he is, all those solos just improvised. Truly amazing!

[@letzrockitrite8469]

Love Alex dearly for his heart/humor/devotion/dedication/musicaltastes/contributions .... with today's innovations I'm able to play along with anything and everyone... playing along with Rush/Alex is challenging and very rewarding... his inputs to each song heartfelt and well thought out ... thanks for hosting this interview sir !

[@DoktorDamage]

Excellent interview with Big Al !!!! Always such a pleasure to listen to him talk. He's been my all time favourite guitarist since my childhood. He paints pictures with his guitar. Never overplaying and always such an inspiration !!! The many palettes of his styles inspired me to be a better player. Love the Envy Of None album as well as Rush albums. Thanks for doing this Craig !!!

[@kennethgould3524]

Best of friends and no ego, that's what kept them together. I've seen them 15 times. Would love for more!

[@andyharman3022]

I saw them eight times. Should have been more like 15. Once for each album from FTK onwards.

[@klauswigsmith]

One of my favourite guitarists ever. Love ya, Alex!

[@papersleeves]

What a joy it was to see Alex and Ged back on stage together in recent past. It need not be RUSH to still be amazing to hear future work between the two best friends 🙏🏼

[@Dobie_ByTor]

I just love everything about Alex. His life work will always be influential in many generations. His character is exemplary. We love you, Al!

[@FenderGreg]

Alex's guitar work is the foundation of my guitar playing from listening so intently growing up.

[@MGBOMAR]

That apartment is one serious man cave Alex…you should maybe hire me to look after it and keep those guitars ‘safe…’ 🤟🏻👌🏻

[@markb7067]

Always great to hear from Alex. I do hope him and Ged make some more music but most importantly, I hope they do so because they just enjoy each other and they love music. They've earned it.

[@Bigirondoug]

Rush was my first concert, Farewell to kings tour 1978 at the International Amphitheater in Chicago, been hooked ever since. I'm grateful for all the music these three masters of their craft have given us and the memories that go with them. RIP Professor

[@bradleyburns1959]

Alex is the coolest rock star ever. Ged is truly a musical genius. And I miss Neil more and more every day.

[@jonathansefcik473]

As someone who knows Natural Science, albeit on bass and not regular guitar, I can confirm it's one of the hardest Rush songs. It's more the endurance that makes it hard. It starts with 90 punishing seconds of 8th notes, then you think you're cut a break with the anthemic section in the middle, then it slaps you in the face for the last 45 seconds with this barrage of fast triplets. You really have to play it a lot to build the endurance of getting through it without either of your hands cramping.

[@ITPAPA69]

Alex seems so humble yet approachable and very sincere, what you see is what you get. RIP Mr. Peart, thanks to all 3 of you for the wonderful memories from an aspiring Bass player of near 62 year old.

[@TheRedMike671]

Thank you very much Alex, for always just being you. Same with Ged... And Neil... The entire Rush crew... For all those close to them who support all their endeavors... You all at times have endured a lot of difficult challenges, slept with pain from the heart, the mind, soul and body... To be able to be on stage performing for countless individuals inspired by not only your music but your choices... All for just some simple joys. Thank you

[@robowenmikels]

Counterparts has probably been my favorite Rush album, since I found a CD at the old Jellybean's music and bookstore in Flint, MI some 23 years, ago. The playing on that album really hits in a different way. The guitars are amazing - "Leave That Thing Along" was one of the first tracks that I learned, through and through, and cut a cover of...just for my own personal studies, not as something to show off. It wasn't bad because I was obsessed with that song and I was young and eager to learn. It was Lifeson's influence that directed me towards being a rhythm/lead player. Red Barchetta is another that is just a milestone Rush track; one of their top 3 greatest compositions. It tells such a story...and all the instruments are just doing what they were supposed to do, nothing out of place. The bassline is one that I have cut my teeth on, time and time, again. As a lefty guitarist, I never played bass until about 10 years ago and when I did, I played a right handed bass. It made sense in my mind..Left hand holds a pick, right hand "fingerstyle bass" because it's already used to legato. I figured, hey, I already know the fretboard very well and my ear is good, so, lets experiment and see what happens. Perseverance and great influences like Rush. I could talk about Rush, I'll tell you... I'll stop now but just for now 😁😁

[@JeromeDukes]

Met Alex on two occasions, the guy is just a beautiful spirit and very approachable. I hope Geddy and Alex end up doing something together.

[@You_Know_The_Thing]

So genuine. So so genuine. I envy an opportunity to hang with alex and listen to his life story.

[@slump75]

How can I just so seriously love someone I don't know, never met, will never meet?! Alex and Geddy and Neil.... Thank you guys

[@PNW_Sportbike_Life]

Natural Science is a damn masterpiece; one of my absolute favorite RUSH tunes!

[@Book-bz8ns]

The whole record was awesome. But yeah, natural science was epic

[@neilparnell5712]

Everyone always states that ''Moving Pictures'' was Rush's Mega Album, but for me ''Permanent Waves'' marked their Rennaisance and really is as you say a masterpiece.

[@joedecker3900]

@@Book-bz8nsWas? Still is..

[@Book-bz8ns]

@@joedecker3900 i am corrected. Totally agree. Permanent Waves was the second record I bought with my own money. The first was Rory Gallagher's Calling Card.

[@jevs402]

You can say that same statement for many of Rush’s songs.

[@JimB0802]

Greatest band ever

[@iulenny]

Alex has always been one of my favorites and it started with his pleasing tones and abstract playing. Love him even more when he get to hear him.

[@80sbmxkid]

Always love hearing from the boys. Still heartbroken that I will never see those three on stage again. I cherish every memory seeimg them live. Signals through R40

[@mikebottiaux5850]

Alex is the Real Deal, Genuine.

[@USAMehdi]

Great to see Alex again! ❤ Thanks for posting... I wished Alex and Geddy would work with the great Terry Brown once again. ( I know it'll never be the same without Neil 😢) but I've been a Rush fan since 79 so I think I have the right to complain as to why Rush never invited Terry to come back?! I can write pages as to why, but I think I've already written too much. It's very nice n amazing to know that I share the same taste ( in music/songs) with Alex 👍😊 I also love the solo in la Villa Strangiato (spl)?❤

[@richardmathews6236]

Yes it would be good if they could get back together one last time.

[@andyharman3022]

I wanted Rush to do another album with Terry Brown after they released Clockwork Angels. It sounded like they were migrating back that way.

[@radiobug63]

Alex, Geddy and Neil..... One class act of gentlemen and superb musicianship.

[@edwardandriaccio8913]

you guys are the most down to earth people/musicians.i would like to extend my heart felt condolences to you and geddy for neils passing.as a rush fan i can only hope you guys still make music together.if you dont that ok you guys left us with alot of awesome music...............god bless guys!!!

[@andyracksthecams]

Thank you

[@alexlifeson1526]

You’re welcome!

[@commonman317]

I still love that live version of "By-Tor" from "All The Worlds A Stage" album. Alex really let loose on that song with some great sounds.

[@flybynightgirl]

Totally agree !

[@andyharman3022]

You betcha! That's the best version of By-Tor and the Snow Dog. It's got the best power chord in the history of rock music. I'm sure you know the one I'm talking about.

[@pgquin]

Thank you Alex. Your music was such a big part of my life as I grew up, and now it’s becoming a big part of my children’s (both girls!) life. 🙂🇨🇦

[@malectric]

Delighted to have come across this interview. Just great hearing from the man himself. A lot of what he says about gear resonates with me, especially the notes about amplifiers as a builder of amps for myself and my friends. Just for the record, Spirit Of Radio was my favourite Rush piece; just loved the guitar sound.

[@keithheaneypercussive]

Alex is such a legend. I wonder if he has experimented with Fractal AXE Effects or Kemper amp modeling and things of that nature.

[@hemibass]

He did. He used several versions of the Axe FX. I think you can even get some of his patches that he made for Rush (I don't own one myself but the guitarist in my Rush band uses one)

[@alexlifeson1526]

Hey Keith. Yeah, I’ve been a happy Fractal user for over 15 years. Great gear.

[@jcsolomon6470]

Yes He Has!Take care!Das Awesome!That's what he Thought about that Product!Jcsx

[@mdu2112]

IIRC, Alex said the Axe was backup until the last tour when it became the main effects.

[@doubled5383]

I want to hear Alex play that banjo he has hanging in the back left.

[@joeq.public281]

Nobody wants to hear a banjo...ever

[@alexdifaso4776]

​@@joeq.public281Steve Martin does

[@Deguilbret17]

Alex Lifeson is just an amazing guy. Human and musician. No matter what him and Geddy decides in the future. They have my entire love and support.

[@hemispheres500]

Thank you for creating this and it was good to hear Alex get a word in 😅 when he does these things with geddy 😂 he never gets to say much. Love it ❤️🙏RW

[@bradthorson1782]

I sense Alex is a bit tired of the question about whether he and Geddy will record together again. I know I am.

[@terryb8467]

Note to interviewer: Stop being a robot.

[@waynemasters]

Agreed... The interviewer is an ultimate bore.

[@smoovegittar]

This man has been an inspiration to myself for over 40 years. I could make a list of the qualities, but if you're reading this it would be redundant. Thanks for all the Music, Al!

[@user-ks6up1vi5t]

Love this interview, Alex has a sweet spirit, and obviously his playing needs no comment except it's killer and unique as it should be. I love what he has to say here.

[@spunkybrewster1972]

The POV of the interviewer is disturbing.

[@marknichols3823]

Yes! Get a higher camera angle. The low angle makes him look like a movie villain!

[@borisdisko4322]

Looking down on Alex smh

[@michaelorleans5396]

Yes..very nasal..lol

[@mattattack4765]

Exactly, don’t wanna see his boogers

[@Play2Win1958]

Alex thanks for sitting down for a talk cause I always look forward to it learning more about you and Geddy the early days the classical guitar lessons which I learned the intro to the trees and a huge fan of Moving Pictures among other recordings and don't ask me for my favorite RUSH tune but I do have Chronicles ! You two be safe ! Love and light ....

[@SacredSecret]

I started learning guitar by playing some of Alex's riffs that I frequently listened to. I was totally enthralled with the sound he made and it took off from there for me. Thanks Alex.

[@davidcook3116]

You realize, no matter what happens (or doesn't) we're always with you, Alex. We love you. Your art will be listened to for ages.

[@jeffstevenson300]

So nice to hear Alex talk and expound so much !

[@tylerarrigoni7700]

I have admired this band my whole life. I would love to hang with Alex and Geddy over some beers and just talk similar topics. Absolute legends and icons of rock.

[@ronpatterson6420]

Alex was and is my number one influence with a few others of different genre of music that made me want to play guitar. I am by no means pro level but I've had opportunities to play a few gigs and have fun over the years and I thank him and Rush for inspiring a thirteen yr old kid to pick up an instrument and learn to play it! I'm fifty seven now and I still play and still find the music inspiring.

[@PP-ob8zr]

Hello Alex. 😊 I miss you guys. I hope you all are doing good and happy. 😊👍 Its nice to once again look into your world. Best to you now and into the future. I was in the sound check in Albany, NY way back when...lol say maybe 1988. We are getting old.