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

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After Neil Peart passed away I wanted to make a video explaining what made him so exceptional for both present and future drummers. I have no control of the ads on this video due to the many copyright claims on the music, hence I am not monetizing from it.
Click a timecode to skip around:
I Intro: Launching generations 0:00
II The Kit 1:34
III Drum Fills 2:24
IV Hi-Hat and Ride Cymbal use 3:32
V Drum Solos 5:11
VI Electronics and Percussion 7:02
VII Lyricist 8:55
VIII Select works with RUSH 11:05
IX A Farewell to Kings 15:35
EVERYTHING BELOW THIS LINE IS ADDED BY KZbin:

[@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

[@tiffsaver]

The thing is, it wasn't just his drumming that was so exceptional, it was his entire existence.

[@ddrown63]

Wish I'd thought 2 say that😟😎

[@eward41]

He is my favorite lyricist of all-time.

[@tiffsaver]

@@eward41 I call him a true "Renaissance Man." Multiple talents, great in every one.

[@Thunda1986]

Theres millions of capable drummers but it's my belief it's the one with best imagination that makes one great

[@texanperry]

Well said and this is spot on!

[@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.

[@aeynosarturii8053]

As much as I appreciate Neil's drumming and composition, his lyrics are what really touch deep. His writing is soul deep and hear-felt.

[@j.m.youngquist419]

All taken from his own life experiences

[@gage4790]

So true

[@stephenmiller2337]

I got into Rush when a saw A Show Of Hands on TV, and then I bought that tape and then bought Presto. Songs like War Paint, Scars and Presto are great, but The Pass really spoke to me, especially as a 17 year old kid going through some heavy shit. His lyrics still speak to me to this day as a 48 year adult.

[@gage4790]

@@stephenmiller2337 As a 14 year old I have to say rush really speaks to me as well. My dad loved to listen to rush as a kid and introduced me to it a few years ago. The lyrics are what amaze me. In a time where you could say random words as fast as possible and that be called music pales in comparison to the lyrics of rush.

[@anthonysaponaro6318]

It really, really is and I kind of felt it from early on only I didn't quite realize how deep and honest until years /decades later.

[@souldeep808]

As a funk drummer and a HUGE Neil Peart fan, I would like to point out that, even though most people would categorize Neil as a "Prog Rock" drummer, he had awesome groove and "pocket" feel. We called it the funky Neil Peart halftime breakdown. Tom Sawyer, and the end of Red Barchetta come to mind. Oh so Tasty!! RIP Professor!

[@Leon-Servant-of-Christ]

Hell yeah, hear hear! 👍

[@kevinmcgiffin10]

Neils drum solo from frankfurt show ! Take a few and watch it . Makes me smile and get choked up near the end when he breaks into a superb jazz rant on his kit. AWESOME !!!

[@ryanrichardson9915]

Well said. "Pocket feel" is a great term!

[@francisrobinson9236]

Well said Hakim

[@michaelmoraga2926]

As a fan(atic) of both Rush and The Purple Yoda... 👍🏼 💜

[@NicholasSadlier]

“We're only immortal for a limited time.” “The proper function of man is to live, not to exist. I shall not waste my days in trying to prolong them. I shall use my time.” (Neil Peart)

[@kennethchartrand4251]

That was always one my my favourite Lyrics from Rush and I have repeated them so many times cause its so true. We definitely are immortal for a limited time.

[@iamjakepaul944]

Facts!

[@andrewhaywood1262]

"Is it living or, just existence?" -"The Enemy Within"

[@FuzzWoof]

Neil's drumming was the perfect blend of technicality and musicality, his lyrics a wonderful combination of head and heart, and he topped it all off by being an incredibly decent person. An absolute one-off and an inspiration. The world is a much more empty place without him.

[@zendisciple3737]

'Neil's drumming was the perfect blend of technicality and musicality, his lyrics a wonderful combination of head and heart, and he topped it all off by being an incredibly decent person.' Very well put.

[@joedimaggio6261]

What is technicality? Drums is a musical instrument so drumming should just be about musicality.

[@WallyLeader]

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

[@randyfurness2415]

If Neil Peart had a passion for physics instead of music , he probably would have solved the Grand Unified Theory. What a great mind .

[@Gothhippie667]

I've seen RUSH 23 times.. When the drummer takes a solo, most people got up and got a beer. We watched Neil.

[@suncookrocks]

I've only seen Rush 3 times. I'm a guitar player, but I went to their shows to watch Neil.

[@drewper73]

@@suncookrocks I only saw them three times also. Yes, of course I went to see Neil, but I also went to see Alex and Geddy and the lights and to hear what Rush sounded like live! To be that close to three musicians who changed the way I listen to music was surreal. 1992, 1996, 2011.

[@suncookrocks]

@@drewper73 Good for you! Now go wash your hands.

[@jefferyfunk6819]

u must not ever watch don brewer then lol....

[@suncookrocks]

@@jefferyfunk6819 Never been to a Grand Funk Railroad concert

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@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. 💗🙏

[@badderthanyou]

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

[@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!

[@scalefreakgaming]

I live in St Catharines, Ontario. Growing up, the stories of his compassion and charity were around, but he was always so selfless in his actions and never wanted it talked about. After his passing, things really started to come out. The level of kindness that Neil expressed is inspiring. And he did it just to do it. So other people could live better. He’s amazing.

[@Snowdog070]

I grew up in St. Kitts and now live in Welland. I went to Lakeside Park when I heard that he had passed. Others were there too. Some came across from the US. Fittingly, it was a rainy day.

[@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 .

[@jamie.t.k.hulinjr4061]

I’m just a simple man who lives in Louisiana and has been playing drums because of Neil for over 30 years and I’m glad I was able to take my daughter to see rush in 2015. Thank you Neil, and geddy, and Alex. Rip Neil!

[@SKOJCV]

I’m from Louisiana too man- been a Rush fan since mid 80s. Nice to see another big Rush fan from “The Boot.” Rip Neil Peart- truly inspirationa!

[@PalmBeachesPaul]

Look at all the comments...I've never seen people react to the passing of a musician like Neil before and its 3 months after..Just shows you how much he and that band touched our souls. He was and will always be my hero. I grew up in the up in 70s through 80s listening to and playing my drums to him. God I loved his playing. This was an awesome tribute.. Thank you🙏🤟🥁

[@kschantz]

Neil was an amazing person. He was an introvert, he felt uncomfortable meeting with his fans and found it hard to connect to them on a personal level. He went for a lot of years without saying much, and after his family tragedy, that part got even worse. He did come back to us, and he gave as much more of himself as he could before he passed on. His death is a tragedy, and I'll miss him and Rush dearly. I never took any of his isolationism as anything personal, everything I ever needed to hear him say, I heard in his music.

[@gingeroo5765]

Live2Shred PERFECTLY put and nither did I. I don’t believe ANYONE should because the introvert is simply just a quiet version of everyone else in the world. It’s not “ABOUT YOU” so just get over yourself and move on to what’s for dinner.

[@j.d.7208]

Perfectly said

[@justinfontaine9953]

And he chose to travel almost exclusively on a motorcycle... ( BMW GS 1200) Why?? because he could appreciate the landscape and the world ALONE. He was one of a kind.

[@gingeroo5765]

Justin Fontaine Yesss . You read his book, I take it?

[@gingeroo5765]

J.D. thanks☺️

[@FiddlingOnTheRoof]

I am SO glad that, for once, "Natural Science" finally got a mention!

[@elitewarrior0076]

Bro, its one of my favorites and like nobody talks about how insanely awesome that song is.

[@billysilvers8348]

Song bangs

[@idlemindedmage6925]

@@elitewarrior0076 I know this is an old comment. But I just wanted to say that I listened to it today on my drive. And I'll listen to it again. Always been a fav. A hidden gem in their massive catalog.

[@elitewarrior0076]

@@idlemindedmage6925 yeah dude i've listened to it probably 100 times over the last year or so and all the time signature and rhythm changes blow my brains off every time. such a good song. Jacob's Ladder as well, another tremendous piece

[@garrettcarroll5808]

His use of the Hi-Hat is amazing. As a guitarist, I dunno why drummers don't use the hi-hat more. I know that the thing nowadays in metal is double-bass, but a well placed Hi-Hat roll really gets the adrenaline going on my end as a guitarist.

[@liam-xm4kg]

Its likely that hi hats are a thing of hard rock and jazz(and in these days heavy metal) probably why drummers dont use it so much. I love using the hi hat

[@prasanthselvadurai3450]

Stewart Copeland too

[@Starman-yt8lj]

Neil was on another plane both musically and intellectually. This is a fitting tribute. Well done.

[@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.

[@chud2169]

Deeply missed. The first (and so far only) musician death I cried over

[@66meikou]

The professor doesn't even look like he's breaking a sweat. Truly a remarkable legend. RIP Neil

[@JT-sl3ui]

Pure effort made to look completely effortless!

[@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 ;)

[@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!

[@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.

[@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. 😊🎵🎼🎶🎵🎵🎵

[@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. :)

[@Smileatlife37]

Now, when you here thunder it's just Neil in heaven playing.....

[@sagnbaby]

That was beautiful Steve!! Thankyou for that!!

[@katelynnloucks9468]

stoooopppp

[@txdrmr]

Absolutely fitting!

[@stevenjurgens4480]

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

[@mrkhubrt]

I probably first started paying attention to Rush with Hemispheres in High School. Though not a musician of any note, I noticed, even then, that the drummer had an ability I knew was rare. I could hear a melody in Neil's playing that was obviously special. Not just a rhythmic backbone to the songs, but another actual melodic addition to the music. I have since never been surprised to always see Neil's name in any "Top whatever" list of drummers. Always near the top. As I have gotten (much) older and have seen many interviews with Neil, I have a deeper respect for him and realize he was not a superficial musician. His lyrics were deep and obviously came from a well of knowledge that few possess. This video was probably one of the best introspective I have ever seen on a musician. RIP Neil. It'll be another 30 or so years to see another like you...

[@craigforsberg9844]

Rush....Neil.....Alex.....Geddy…..Best band ever. Just my opinion. Been my favorite since 1975

[@bate6977]

I'll stand with that opinion.

[@paulocarvalho9671]

Neil ..

[@inactive67]

Me 78ish but right behind ya!!!

[@sexwithal224]

All of the members can be argued as the greatest of their instrument of all time

[@thecentralscrutinizer5105]

...and still nobody brings up Terry Brown..... almost like he never played drums for Rush

[@dizzolve]

My good friend Joe from my teens said it best imho ....."Thank you for sparking the passion and dreams of a restless youth searching for meaning and a place in the world. Your words and music were the soundtrack of my adolescence and your drumming is forever imprinted upon my DNA. Rest in peace professor." Thanks for taking a minute tho Steve. Peart was part of my identity too

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@jimmaone3378]

Steve, that was great. I actually got emotional again. Amazing how I never met this man and I’ve shed tears over his death. That’s never happened to me with a celebrity. I’ve been with them since All the worlds a stage. First concert was A Farewell to Kings at the Palladium in Manhattan. By the way, I’m the guy from Long Island that took a Skype lesson with you a few months ago. Hoping you’re well. And thank you again for a great tribute.

[@SteveHolmesDrums]

Jim Maone Yeah man! I’m so glad you liked it! I hope the drumming is going well. Good luck.

[@michaelkittelson156]

Mill

[@Littlewhitewestie]

@Kali Southpaw I think of that often, how Geddy and Alex are doing after Neil's passing. I wish them the very best in whatever they do next in life. I am very thankful for all the music Rush gave us.

[@kevinboese16]

same about the emotional/tears/celebrity comment. crazy. super good video, thanks Steve!

[@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.

[@mscottsimon]

It's amazing how Neil and Rush touched so many lives, and how deeply. I struggle to think of any recent artist or band who will be remembered like this.

[@chrischoir3594]

Neil was an aggressive and very musical drummer. That is what made him great. Being in Rush didn't hurt. He pushed the musical threshold along with Lifeson and Lee.

[@leopardcubpupkryky6940]

Neil's influence on millions of drummers and then in turn, the influence of those drummers influence in the bands they were in, is immeasurable . He and RUSH have had such an effect on bands to follow........it's just amazing. TOTAL FUCKING LEGEND. Words cannot do his talent justice. Those of us who know....just know.

[@DHarri9977]

To put it simply, Neil was a drummer's drummer hence the professor.

[@copterguy]

I cannot like this comment enough 👍

[@mediclimber]

There never was before, and probably never will be again, a man as well spoken and capable of playing like Neil Peart. Many have learned and copied his music, but none have taken it to the next step.

[@nathansprowl4972]

Neil Peart The Best Of Them All So Great Performances He Will Always Be Remembered

[@nathansprowl4972]

Thankyou Very Much For your Respect

[@randyfurness2415]

Neil Peart is absolutely the best ever composer of percussion. And his greatest desire was to inspire others . And he did just that . Geddy inspired me to take up the bass guitar in 1981 . Neil Peart inspired me to learn about percussion and how to appreciate the importance of musicians playing together. I suspect I'm just one of millions he had that effect on . I remember when Elvis died .I was 11 at the time and didn't understand why people where so despondent. Now I do . There will never be another Neil Peart . Just like Elvis, the bar is far too high and the shoes to big . RIP Professor.

[@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.

[@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.

[@ecylop]

I am 53 years old... After video, had a little crying... Huge part of my life has gone with Neil and Rush... From year to year... "A farewell to kings" is a farewell to spirit of youth...

[@dibber43]

His dedication to his craft...drums, songwriting, and being an author. His bookreading, his sense of wanting to continue to grow as a musician. Not standing on his laurels and being stagnant. Always willing to add to the "toolbox" and pushing the boundaries on his bandmates. I could go on and on...

[@zackthebongripper7274]

He was a beautiful man and mind. The greatest rock band.

[@josephmourino1383]

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

[@yrmthr]

His fills and style were so expressive. He didnt just play the drums. He talked to you thru them. Such frenetic precision. The interaction and language between these 3 gentlemen is something that cant be replicated.

[@Vnachi8]

Love the story of Peart, who when widely considered one of the best drummers of all time, thought he had a hole in his drumming by playing match style. His solution was to relearn the Rush catalog playing traditional grip. That’s what takes a great drummer to legendary status. Imagine a someone like Stevie Ray Vaughn deciding to relearn his whole catalog playing left handed and doing it so well he was just as good with either hand. That’s what Peart did. Simply incredible.

[@randal_gibbons]

He was a true Renaissance man of the modern age.

[@amiibeau4622]

Nothing against The Garden but thank you for not using that song as the outro section of your video because it’s almost getting to a cliched point to use it as a tribute for Neil because the lyrics are very relatable. Using that ending bit of Cygnus X1 book II was so good and resonated this idea of how he would want humanity to be now that he is gone. It made me smile

[@danadaniels5058]

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

[@bruxo27]

Steve, man... This is the most respectfull and well done retrospective about Neil. Thank you!! I cry the entirelly video... Again Thank you!!

[@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.

[@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

[@darthvicious9447]

Oh man that ending brought tears to my eyes. RIP Professor ...

[@rlbrett]

Well done, Steve. This passionate work was both highly interesting and informative.

[@JB4375]

@Bronze Brett: Couldn't agree more. I don't think I've ever directly commented to a video creator about their work, but giving this video a like just wasn't enough. Very well done, Steve.

[@aaroncrepeau3296]

The band Tool is the Rush of today. Listen to the full song Lateralus by Tool. Rush was great for their time but now there are other bands such as Dream Theater, or another band called The Aristocrats. If you give them a chance prepared to be blown away

[@cvn6555]

@@aaroncrepeau3296 Thx. I have been listening to Tool a lot recently, as recommended by others on the interwebs. Danny Carey is in the same vein as Mr Peart- innovative, musical and intensely accurate. There is a video of Danny playing with Neil and Stewart at the Sacred Grove.

[@lostintime8651]

His brain made him special then ended up ending his life. Too young to die. RIP buddy 💔🙏

[@frankrightbrain]

That was amazing. Thank you @Steve Holmes. Now where have I seen the shot of Neil on his BMW with both arms outstretched?

[@barrym4079]

When you have the respect of virtually every musician on the planet, who cares what the media thinks. His fans knew what he was.

[@fenderstratocastertelecast8479]

A human being of a kind... Lyrics, playing... Philosophy.. He really moved many things in my life... And he is gone... A part of me died that january....

[@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.

[@robertskinner1799]

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 "

[@taunokekkonen5733]

Wonderful life? Daughter killed in a car crash and lost wife to cancer. A wonderful life you say?

[@Mr.CliffysWorld]

@@taunokekkonen5733 and yet he lived a full life dispite all that !! What a special man !

[@jahread3322]

She? Damn you are lucky to have known one of the 3 female rush fans!

[@JoolsGuitar]

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

[@awizardalso]

I was a fan of RUSH since I first heard their song 'Working Man'. I just saw that Neil was two years older than me. I was born in 1954. I was sad to hear he had passed away, and RUSH had to break up. Neil was the best drummer I ever heard play drums and not just the best but the most unique in style.

[@aidanpysher2764]

15:38 I own that exact style of motorcycle, a liquid cooled R1200GS in part to Neil Peart. May he rest in peace. I named it Cygnus, and I have a starman sticker on my windshield.

[@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.

[@topofthegreen]

There will never be another Neal, he was a gift.

[@eiserntorsphantomoftheoper2154]

Got into RUSH in 1980. It was thru a die hard fan that brought me into the fold thru RUSH, Fly By Night, 2112, Fairwell to Kings....then into the current album's. Start at the beginning. They deserve the respect, he said.

[@jonesygw]

Very Nice tribute. Unfortunately time doesn’t stand still. Where did the time go. All of a sudden he’s gone, but will never, ever be forgotten. I miss this man like a family member, even though I never met him personally. I became a fan 43 years ago at the age of 12, and like so many tried to emulate his style of drumming, learning so much, never getting tired of trying to learn more. THANK YOU NEIL for being such an important part of my life. You are missed.

[@SmallSoldier]

God... I still can't believe he's gone. RIP Professor Neil.

[@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 :)

[@jeffholliday8304]

His timing was impeccable The lyrics he wrote was pure genius

[@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!

[@markhodge7]

The first time I'd even heard of Rush was the first time I saw them in concert, backing Aerosmith in 1976 as a 16 year old. In my eyes they stole the show. I immediately went out and bought all their records ( only 4 at that point). This band was a revelation. Hearing Neil for the first time on these records gave my the same feeling as when I discovered Hendrix for the first time, a couple of years earlier. I put Neil on the same level as Hendrix in his influence on the instrument he played. Excellent tribute

[@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 .

[@royce0869]

Neil us was the drummer that I always longed to be like. The world is not the same without him!!

[@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.

[@pwoods100]

Great video. Neil was a true example of a "one-off" - you aren't going to get anyone else like him ever again.

[@rugburnednuts]

Beautifully done. Just when I thought I was done with crying I watched this and at the ending when The Sphere starts playing I lost it and bawled my eyes out again. This year I lost my musical idol Neil and a month later my mother passed away. May they both Rest In Peace.

[@dougstill6517]

Randy Sych so sorry for your loss. I’ve only cried twice to mourn the loss of someone. My brother who died suddenly at 53 and Neil Peart. Rush music framed my entire life since the release of Permanent Waves. There will never be another Rush or Neil. I’m just happy to have been along for the ride.

[@rugburnednuts]

Doug Still thank you. I’m sorry for the loss of you brother. Rush has meant so much to me since the Fly By Night album. Hearing Neil play sent me in the direction all parents dread,the drums. I literally gave up playing guitar and talked my parents into buying me my first drum kit. 45 years later I still play them. I agree,there will never be another Rush or Neil. No band or drummer even comes close. Last night I was watching all the videos I shot from every concert I’ve seen since cell phones were video capable. I broke down once again. The sadness never ends. My first Rush concert was the Hemispheres tour 1978. I’ve seen many Rush concerts but sadly I didn’t get to the R40 tour.

[@TonMaison]

Same here

[@andrewpetik2034]

I am so very sorry for your loss. My parents are both gone. It is very hard....traumatic. Neil's passing was one of the few celebrities was where I cried. I cried like I lost a brother.

[@mr3n10]

Neil's passing was like one of a family member... I thought as much as we knew about him through his writing that we still didn't know him... He will be missed... my only brother and mother passed within a year of each other so I know that pain when Neil passed I vowed to become great at my craft so I say all of that to tell you to let Neil inspire you to greatness!!! #longliveneil

[@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...

[@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.

[@Slider6294]

Neil's death affected me more than any other musician since Stevie Ray Vaughan and maybe BB King. Great tribute and thank you for doing this! I find myself in awe of this man's immense talent--a true modern Renaissance man.

[@DavidLeBlanc]

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

[@traceythomas3027]

I wish I could add something meaningful like the others, all I can add is a great THANK YOU, to you, Steve Holmes, for letting me have another chance at being touched by such a wonderful musician and human being. Many, many thanks.

[@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!

[@Robert_11911]

Neil was my brother, the brother whom I had never met. I miss him. God bless. Rest in peace Neil. We will never forget you.

[@nickygeeksterx01]

That's why he was known as the Professor, such a sad loss. This one of the best tributes to him I've seen........many thanks.

[@JF-kv1gm]

Today would be Neil's 68th birthday. So sorely missed. So, let's remember him and his amazing legacy today, not with tears but with smiles and immense gratitude. We miss you, sir! 🙏💗🤗

[@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.

[@DarkDoz]

I went into USAF to buy a Neil Pert drum set. I still have today. I have every Rush Album. We will never forget the Master of the drums. Thank you for sharing

[@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.

[@eschdaddy]

What I like most about him is, as you said, he approaches his solos as a composition and not improve. But more than that, I loved that he understood the set was to accent the music and not just set a rhythmic background. He raised Rush's music to a different level. We miss you Neil.

[@blank557]

Love Rush. Admire Peart. Seeing the photos of him in his older years, he reminds me of the great actor, Buster Keaton, who was often referred to as the Great Stone face, in appreciation of his role as a every-man bravely facing disasters, catastrophes, war, and challenges big and smal with stoic determination and heroism. Like Buster Keaton superb acrobatic moves, carefully planned stunts, and amazing timing, Peart reflects a similar spirit musically playing the drums.