Rush drummer Neil Peart has died at the age of 67. His death in California on Tuesday, January 7 was confirmed by the CBC and the band’s publicist.
Update: Rush bassist Geddy Leed and guitarist Alex Lifeson shared the following message:
It is with broken hearts and the deepest sadness that we must share the terrible news that on Tuesday our friend, soul brother and band mate of over 45 years, Neil, has lost his incredibly brave three and a half year battle with brain cancer (Glioblastoma). We ask that friends, fans, and media alike understandably respect the family’s need for privacy and peace at this extremely painful and difficult time. Those wishing to express their condolences can choose a cancer research group or charity of their choice and make a donation in Neil Peart’s name.
Rest in peace brother.
Lee told Rolling Stone in 2018 that Peart had retired from drumming professionally.
Born on September 12, 1952, Peart was raised in Port Dalhousie in Ontario, Canada. He joined Lee and Lifeson in Rush in July 1974, replacing drummer John Rutsey and solidifying the band’s lineup. Peart became the Rush’s primary lyricist as they rose to international success in the late-1970s.
In 1994, Rush earned induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. In 2013, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Rush’s final concert took place on August 1, 2015 in Los Angeles.
It is with broken hearts and the deepest sadness that we must share the terrible news that on Tuesday our friend, soul…
Posted by RUSH on Friday, January 10, 2020
