Neal was also very introverted. He didn't do crowds. He would often stay in the dressing room and let Geddy and Alex go out and do the fan service stuff.
Geddy Lee is the lead singer, bass player, and keyboard player. Alex Lifeson is the guitarist Neal Peart WAS the drummer, he passed away a few years ago. Neal was also the lyricist and was an avid reader and motorcylcist.. Neal Peart is considered by most to be the very best drummer in rock history. His complicated use of time signatures and flawless transitions make him hard ot beat. RIP Neal Peart. All the band members were rather introverted and well read. I highly recommend the song "The Big Money" by Rush. Talk about lyrical fire, it's a deep dive in to the role of money in society.
I thought I truly appreciated Neil as a drummer - and then I saw him live, and realized he was even greater than I had thought. All 3 of the guys of course, but Neil was truly the best ever, just an absolute monster both behind the drums, and behind a pen.
Neal Peart considered the GOAT of drumming was a very introverted person, when RUSH did meet & greets with backstage fans, only Geddy and Alex would do them, Neal did not like the over the top fandom of his fame, he appreciated it but he felt fan adoration was weird. "I can't pretend a stranger is a long-awaited friend" says it all
Many people don't know that Neil was allotted an extra security staffer after the shows just to get some extra peace and quiet. Alex and Geddy not so much but they were all absolute gentlemen (I know as I was with security for 3 of their shows) and Neil's passing is a loss for the world.
@@WireHeddI'm ot surprised. I read his book Ghost Rider and he detailed when a couple fans snuck onto the tour bus. IIRC he said it felt like a home invasion, which I get. The tour bus is their home away from home.
@@WireHedd - My mother's husband was a graphic artist and used to take on side gig's doing marketing campaigns for Zildjian. He met Neil at the headquarters in Norwell, Massachusetts, and quite literally had no idea who he was. They got to talking and when Neil found out he occasionally gigged as a banjo player in a bluegrass band, he took quite an interest. They ended up talking for quite some time about the interesting time signatures in bluegrass, jazz and other genres. I had a good laugh when he told me about that conversation. If he'd known who Neil was... if he'd even mentioned the word 'Rush', Neil would have probably clammed up and got out of there. But the fact that they were just chatting like a couple regular guys with similar interests was probably a big relief to him. I got the impression that Neil wasn't "introverted" per se... he just didn't want to have 'that' conversation over and over again.
So, in reality, It wasn't Geddy Lee's, the lead singer's vocabulary, the lyrics came from the Drummer Neil Peart. He was a poet of lyrics. In fact, he was a voracious reader. Alex Lifeson the guitarist and Geddy Lee, saw him and said, "look at him, he reads a lot of books he could probably write the lyrics to our songs," and write he did. Geddy later admitted trying to sing his lyrics was very challenging because they were so ethereal.
I am a published poet and feel Neil Peart is one of the most underrated poets in history. He didn't write songs; he wrote world-class poetry put to music. They call him the "Professor" of drums-when he was just as accomplished as a wordsmith.
Red Barchetta and the Trees are songs with great lyrical writing Neal was a lot like Gordon Litefoot there lyrics really draw a picture and tell a story in a unique manner.
@@jameydbI remember 8th grade English class was studying Shakespeare and the lyrics for "As I Like It" from Shakespeare was on the blackboard. When I saw them I was sure we were going to be studying RUSH that day. It was the first time I enjoyed that class.
Rush are simply the best three piece rock band ever, period. Master musicians, master composers, and as you noticed- the lyrics? Amazing. Neil Peart, as well as being one of the greatest rock drummers ever, was a lyricist beyond compare.
Imagine being a 15-year-old kid, you've never been to a rock concert or a live show in your life and an older kid in the neighborhood asks if you'd like to go with him and a bunch of other guys to see a show tonight. You beg your mother to go. She says yes and you sit down and you see the concert for the permanent waves album and they start off with Spirit of Radio. It was an unbelievable experience. I couldn't believe three musicians could put out so much quality quality sound and they just love performing for their audiences. If you guys do some research, you'll find out they're one of the most fan-friendly bands out there. They kept their ticket prices low and they toured every album and they pretty much put out an album almost every year. I was lucky enough to catch the next three albums they put out including this one moving pictures. It was just fabulous live show. I think I actually saw them twice on that tour. They are just amazing! Thanks so much for all you do and for sharing. Keep up the great work!
Rush was my first concert. I think I was 12 or 13 & went with my dad. Test for Echo tour (pretty much the Different Stages live album). I was beyond floored
I attended my first Rush show at 11, also my very first concert. I went with my older brother because he was supposed to be watching me. I went on to see them 27 more times.
Í don't have to imagine it. I have almost the exact same story, albeit a few years earlier. My first Rush show was the 2112 tour in 1976. They were still an opening act at the first show in March. By June of '76 they were the headliner at Toronto's Massey Hall. The All The World's A Stage album was recorded at those Toronto shows if you're interested.
One of the great things to realize about Rush is 3 guys in the studio and 3 guys in concert. Geddy Lee is a master lead vocalist, bass guitar player, and keyboard player. Amazing band!
Those who wish to “Seem”, vs those who wish to “Be”! Is an underrated and unnoticed line by many due to the lyrical cadence, it it’s crucial to the message. Cheers and Rush on!
"Gilded Cage" is a metaphor in this song. We think of birds in cages, but a human that lives in a mansion, surrounded by beautiful things, et al., may not be allowed to just leave at will (like if you're super famous), hence their beautiful mansion is a "cage". They would be said to be living in a gilded cage.
@lethasatterfield9615 in fact, he never did shy away from revealing who influenced his writing. The hints appear all throughout his career. I had to laugh at one such comment. The individual spoke of Sting writing in reference to the term "gilded cage", possibly implying he got it from Peart. If he did, well he got from Peart, who got it from Shakespeare. The trickle down effect. 😉
"I can't pretend a stranger is a long-awaited friend" is my favorite line in the song as well. This is my favorite Rush song, although i love many of them.
There are a few lyrics that have stayed with me for a long time. This is one! The other is from Territories: "Better the pride that resides...in a citizen of the world...than the pride that divides when a colorful rag is unfurled".
The issue with me as an introvert with autistic tendencies is that I have difficulty even treating people I know but don't meet very often as if I know them. For whatever reason, I just can't do small talk unless I'm drunk.
From 86' to 89' I worked at the local rock station (radio) and part of my job was dealing with the music acts that came in to do interviews so I got to meet allot of my rock hero's during that time. I met Neil Peart twice when he and Geddy and Alex all came in, all I'll say is Neil was one of the nicest rockstars I've ever met but so was Alex and Geddy. I think that's one of the reasons why they are so loved they were great musicians who played really complex music but never came off as snobs, they just acted the way they were, just regular guys.
"A Bird in a Gilded Cage" is an old phrase that is used metaphorically in this song to describe Neil's frustration with being a celebrity. The phrase has always been used to describe a life of apparent wealth and luxury, without the freedom to come and go at will, or just live an anonymous life. Neil hated that aspect of being a musician, but loved the music and loved performing. It was just his way of putting it out there, acknowledging it, and getting on with the music.
I read somewhere that some rock journalist was assigned to follow them around on tour and do a sort of “journal” type thing, and he was stoked thinking that these hard rockin dudes were going to be partying all the time. Turns out, Rush had a competition going to see who could read the most books on that tour
You nailed it on the line "I cant pretend the stranger is a long awaited friend". The drummer Neil wrote the lyrics and he is a very private person and was constantly approached by die hard drummer fans who just completely geek out on him. He disliked it when people told him how amazing he was and often shied away from that kind of fan behavior. The line you thought you might be harping on, you werent. It's the key lyric in the entire piece.
If you finally dive down the Rush rabbit hole not only will your vocabulary improve, you will be absolutely blown away by the talent oozing from all three of these musical geniuses. Please take the dive, Rush is a one of a kind band that changed what a rock song could be.
Neil Peart was a legendary musician and a beautiful person. He definitely faced some hardships with the loss of his wife and his daughter and then eventually his own cancer. He will always be a hero of mine!
😂Mamma here Welcome to our three Canadian masters! Rush 40+ yrs of amazing tunes. Mr Geddy Lee lead vocals, Bass, synth. Then the Professor Drummer, percussionist, lyricist Mr Neil Peart. Mr Alex Lifeson on guitar. Three friends who meet in high-school. Decided to play music. They have a stage presence you feel in your soul. They fed off each other. No bullshit, they got along like a well crafted wine. We got three hour concerts. Wait till you get to 2112 ( the year) It has 7 parts. The video with the cartoon strip helps to see and read the story to unfold. 😅 20 minutes it was the whole side of the album. The rabbit hole is an awesome ride. Xanadu, would be a great next . Great reaction Cheers
When I was 14 years old my english teacher assigned us to pick our favorite song and translate each line to what the song was saying and meaning. This was my song that I picked and I've seen Rush 14 times in concert. This assignment made me really dissect lyrics of songs throughout my entire life and if a song has a meaning I'm not down with I won't listen to it. The best english class assignment I've ever had and I sent my english teacher a message about 3 years ago to tell her thank you! Neil Peart wrote all the songs for Rush and his nickname was " the Professor". I love this group!!!
@@lockandloadshari very few (if any) of the lyrics in Rush's catalogue are bubblegum popcorn fluff. I've said elsewhere CFNY an early "Alternative rock" station in Toronto had "Spirit of Radio" as their slogan which from my understanding was where the title came from.
BP, 'gilded cage' is a metaphor for a 'nice' prison. Beautiful surroundings, beautiful appointments, anything you want service, BUT, you are still a prisoner.
Love it! At 15:41 into your reaction, Neil Peart was pounding the drums so hard, his headphones were slipping off! Go back & look. This band was incredibly talented, not only in master musicianship, but Neil Peart's lyrics were very deep & intellectually poetic.
Growing up on the US/CAN border, I was exposed to Canadian groups a lot sooner than most others, and RUSH has been my all time favorite. I got even more intotheir music when my aunt married this unassuming guy while they were both in the Army in Germany in 1982; Uncle Gary was a true fan(atic), a Leadr amongst Rats. When he passed a few years ago due to service related issues ( He was a SNCO in the Army's Chem Corps - NBRNE Warfare Specialist), we played damn near the entire RUSH catalog at his wake, and Geddy hisself sent a tribute and eulogy.
Geddy Lee Bass,keyboards and vocals, Alex Lifeson Guitars, Neil Peart drums, and percussion. 3 Genius 's that put out some of the best music of all time!!!!
RUSH FINALLY! The group has been awarded 24 gold, 14 platinum and 3 multi-platinum albums. They accomplished this feat with almost NO AIRPLAY! Subbed for more. Listening to RUSH will make you smarter 😉
THIS cannot be overstated! "Progressive" rock bands were not mainstream nor did they make "Corporate rock" music for the radio. Metal bands (Like Metallica) suffered the same way (at least until their self-title "black" album had a more mainstream sound). Metal bands like Metallica and Iron Maiden, Dio etc, became hugely popular without radio airplay. They became popular through concerts and word-of-mouth.
This was the wild thing, and is so hard to explain to folks. You never heard Rush, but you knew all their songs. Their songs, once you heard them from a friend or such just stuck in your head.
The local rock station played Rush plenty back in the day. In fact, its where I heard my first Rush song, Tom Sawyer on a stereo I rescued from a dumpster. I had to listen for it again to find out the name of the band (remember, no internet back in the early 80s). Once I found out, I went out and snapped up a cassette, and when they came out, the CD (I still have it).
Rush are musical geniuses. The only band of 3 guys that can sound like a lot more. Subdivisions, another song of theirs, will blow your mind with the deep thoughts behind it.
Neil Peart is the lyricist for many of the bands songs (RIP). He was a virtuoso drummer and his fanciful, flowery lyrics are just at home in song as they would be in a fantasy poem.
That's what I always said ,growing up with these bands it was music 1st that attracted me ,half the times couldn't make out the words. Many bands had inserts included in their album covers with the lyrics...
Rush is one hell of a massive rabbit hole. This band was so great on so many virtuosic levels. I was privileged to see them a handful of times & they were always so on point. Subdivisions would be another one you would really dig. It is so layered with such a great hook…..
Lifelong Rush fan, over a dozen concerts attended. Appreciate you diving into their music. The Trees is one of my favorite songs of theirs and would love to see you react to it. It’s a highly underrated song!
Your perspective of "Let's just get to the music", that is spot-on. For Rush, it was never about FAME, writ large; never about the pursuit of wealth and glory, for its own sake. They are first and foremost musicians. In fact, they are famously known as the "musicians' musician" or "your favorite musician's favorite musician", right? They were dedicated to learning their instruments to the highest degree and then, once they did that (which they had, by the end of the 1970s), they turned their attentions to being the best songwriters they could be, during the 1980s and following. But through it all, their top motivation was the music. It was their religion, practically! They were not over-awed by fame and wealth or the "Rock Star lifestyle", which is one important way they kept from burning out or blowing up, as people. They were kind of "boring", relative to the typical Rock Star biography. But that is what helped them keep their focus on serving the fans and keeping a high level of professionalism, throughout their 40+ year career!
Your interpretation wasn’t wrong. You read it perfectly. Like others have said, the drummer writes most of the lyrics. The singer/bassist/keyboard player just has a great connection with the drummer.
The best "radio friendly" song ever produced. Masterpiece. There are "those who wish to seem" (pretenders) and "those who wish to be" (authentic artists, fame is an unwanted byproduct)
Neil mentioned one of the things about being a rock star is fans knocking on the door of your hotel room. Neil Peart loved The Who. He went to see them as often as he could when he was younger. He literally worshiped them. But he said he could never envision himself going to the hotel where The Who was staying and knocking on the door of Keith Moon's room. When Neil wrote Limelight, he acknowledge he loved making music in a rock band, but as an introvert, he didn't love the life of being a rock star. Bob Seger sings about a similar topic in his song "Turn The Page" (which you've already reacted to).
This whole album is fabulous. First concert I went to was Rush…Moving Pictures. Changed my life as a young teenager. YYZ live from Rio is your next destination. Really highlights their instrument ability. Has no words but the crowd sings the notes. Very cool.
I remember when Sebastian Bach was in an interview talking about his love for Rush, he mentioned that they were not only amazing musicians but they should be credited for introducing audiences to Shakespeare. It was commonly known as a reference to The Bard back in the day, but I think fewer people read Shakespeare these days which is a shame.
To me, the song is a warning. It's basically saying in a pleasant way, "Yeah, you think you want to be a famous rock star. Here's what they dont tell you and what your life will be like. You'll live in a beautiful home, but you can't leave because you'll be harassed anywhere you try and go. People will think they know you. In reality, they only know the image you put forth.When they meet you in person, they'll act like some long lost BFF and want to hug on you, but you have no idea who they are and can't have personal space. Also, you're gonna have to act happy to see them no matter how tired you are or how bad they smell or anything else. You're probably a little socially awkward, and that's too bad because you have to be the coolest dude in the room wherever you go, no matter how you're feeling today. You need to always be in character. Because you're always performing even when not on stage."
Their drummer was the best that ever lived RIP Neal!! ❤ Rush spawned many many rock artists! ❤❤ So glad you are reacting to Rush Geddy Lee the singer is amazing
Rush was known as the thinking man's rock band. Very complex lyrics, seldom about boy/girl relationships. But instead about being a star, breaking from family or neighborhood norms. "I can't pretend the stranger is a long awaited firend" IS the best line. Words matter. In the show crowd, pre-social, fans were complete strangers. And not just someone to say hello to or you know but a long-awaited friend. Yet fans often assume that realationship due to the closeness to the songs and music. Incredibly personal song. RIP Neil. A virtual friend.
I really appreciate you taking the time to research something new mid song instead of asking for comments to answer all your questions. Rush is a class act, probably the cleanest band to ever play. When they opened for KISS, Gene said they would party after the gigs, but Rush went to their rooms and watched tv. Probably the most respectable band in the last 5 or 6 decades.
Geddy Lee is easily one of the greatest Musicians of all time; not to mention his singing. He has a timeshare on the fiery lake; but he doesn't try to sell it off to other people... Very honorable.
The studio that much of this video was shot, was called Le Studio located in Morin Heights, Quebec (north of Montreal) and was dubbed “Rush’s Abby Road”. Sadly the studio closed in early 2000’s and then fire got most of it in 2017. This was the home to many other famous bands as well, like The Police, Chicago, Bee Gee’s and Bowie to name a few. I used to live near the studio and would drive by it every day on the way to work hoping to catch a glimpse of someone famous. A Great studio that created great music.
Rush "TOM SAWYER" (original video) Don't pause during the drum solo. It's quick, but AMAZING. Neil Peart is in the top 2 of all drummers ever, IMO. My other top favorite drummer is Stewart Copeland from the band The Police. Both of these drummers are skilled beyond measure. 🙌🔥🔥
I saw Rush 23 times and every show was so special to experience. The lead singer is Geddy Lee but the words are Niel Peart the percussionist. All of their songs will take you on a journey.
The drummer & lyricist for the band Neil Peart (pronounced Pee-urt) is & was widely considered the greatest rock drummer of all time. He was admittedly VERY uncomfortable with the fame & notoriety he received from fans & the media. I can't pretend a stranger is, a long awaited friend.
Regarding, "I can't pretend a stranger is a long-awaited friend" Neil, the lyricist said, back in his days they looked up to The Who as one of the great bands but he could never imagine himself hanging outside their hotel room trying to approach them like they knew him. It kind of creeped him out to think that. Neil was not comfortable in the limelight and often, he would not even get on the tour bus and just ride his motorcycle anonymously to the next gig and even would use credit cards and IDs with different names to stay anonymous.
Growing up in the Toronto area in the 70's and 80's, I had no idea how privileged we were to see RUSH on a regular basis. Great bands were just the norm.
I'm not sure if thus is your first Rush reaction, but you have to do Tom Sawyer. Neal Peart was always travelling through places like Africa on his touring bike to listen to native musicians especially percussionists .. he continued to expand his one of a kind knowledge until he passed. His live solos are a joy to watch... He speaks through his craft. Thanks for paying respect for this incredible 3 man band from Canada!
I love seeing people react to the pure genius that is Rush... When you watch them it is hard to decide where to focus, because it's like being at a 3 ring circus, 3 musical geniuses each at the top of their profession... Dive deep my man, there are so many great songs and the lyrics are always deep and meaningful!?
As mentioned before, 'Gilded Cage' is a metaphor for being 'trapped' in the world of fame, money, possessions, etc. Neil was very private. This song was his statement about how he felt about fame..."I can't pretend a stranger is a long awaited friend.' Neil was a prolific reader and writer. He's authored several books. Le Studio(the house) was in Quebec and was a recording studio they once used. Your analysis was spot on.
I grew up in a town outside Toronto and they lived in the next town and we were playing in the park and heard music coming from the factories and we climbed on the dumpsters to watch in the window and saw them rocking out making the most impressive music we had ever heard. They saw us and came out and talked to us about hockey ( cause that's what we Canadians do😂) we talked about the music they were recording and their cars they had beautiful cars. Geddy and Alex gave us guitar picks and Neil gave us drumsticks they were so down to earth and humble and when I was older I saw them live twice, once in front of 500,000 crazy Canadians at the SARS relief concert. Spirit of radio must be next my friend. Great reaction and Peace out ✌️ ☮️ 🙏
Honestly, your reactions are the most thoughtful and insightful on UA-cam. Nothing superficial at all. You truly listen, think, and analyze. So glad I came across your channel. A new subscriber for sure. Looking forward to digging in deeper.
Respect! Really like your approach and the link to something personal. But I do love you stopping to learn something new as so many just don't give the time or fear of being embarrassed of not knowing. TY Cheers
I was fortunate enough to see Rush live in the early 2000s, even as older men they threw it down, played a 3 hour set, no opener, they just laid it down.. Neal Peart Sat on a pedestal, him and his drum set were lifted way above the stage, an experience I'll never forget or take for granted.. saw the Rolling Stones in the 90s also.. I missed the Pink Floyd Pulse tour unfortunately I was just a tad young.. 17..
RUSH is my all-time favorite band. The talent from these three is limitless. Neil Peart is THE GOAT of drummer's. I saw them boundless times up until Peart passed. I even got to meet the band back stage when I was a teenager. Well, all except Peart, who was always in the dressing room reading. If you want to hear a mind blowing album, listen to Caress of Steel. Also, check out Moving Pictures. I realize their sound is an acquired taste, but NO ONE can deny the sheer talent of these guys. I could go on and on about this band and their music.
Neil Peart, the drummer and lyricist of Rush, was heavily involved in writing most of the band’s songs. He was a heavy reader and his vocabulary was out of this world.
The drummer, Neal Peart, wrote most of the lyrics for the group. He is also considered one of the best drummers to have ever lived.
100 %
Facts
NP is more than a drummer. He is far beyond that .."percussionist" might be better.
RIP❤❤❤
Neal was also very introverted. He didn't do crowds. He would often stay in the dressing room and let Geddy and Alex go out and do the fan service stuff.
Trust me the more you listen to Rush the smarter you get. Facts
Geddy Lee is the lead singer, bass player, and keyboard player.
Alex Lifeson is the guitarist
Neal Peart WAS the drummer, he passed away a few years ago.
Neal was also the lyricist and was an avid reader and motorcylcist..
Neal Peart is considered by most to be the very best drummer in rock history. His complicated use of time signatures and flawless transitions make him hard ot beat. RIP Neal Peart.
All the band members were rather introverted and well read.
I highly recommend the song "The Big Money" by Rush. Talk about lyrical fire, it's a deep dive in to the role of money in society.
Perfect summary, thanks you.
And both Getty and Alex play foot pedals live along with all the other stuff they do.
I experienced Neal Peart’s legendary drum solo on the Tour of the Hemispheres in Stockholm 1982.
I feel so blessed to have seen that live!
I thought I truly appreciated Neil as a drummer - and then I saw him live, and realized he was even greater than I had thought. All 3 of the guys of course, but Neil was truly the best ever, just an absolute monster both behind the drums, and behind a pen.
That or Subdivisions!!
Neal Peart considered the GOAT of drumming was a very introverted person, when RUSH did meet & greets with backstage fans, only Geddy and Alex would do them, Neal did not like the over the top fandom of his fame, he appreciated it but he felt fan adoration was weird. "I can't pretend a stranger is a long-awaited friend" says it all
Many people don't know that Neil was allotted an extra security staffer after the shows just to get some extra peace and quiet. Alex and Geddy not so much but they were all absolute gentlemen (I know as I was with security for 3 of their shows) and Neil's passing is a loss for the world.
@@WireHeddI'm ot surprised. I read his book Ghost Rider and he detailed when a couple fans snuck onto the tour bus. IIRC he said it felt like a home invasion, which I get. The tour bus is their home away from home.
Neil
@@WireHedd - My mother's husband was a graphic artist and used to take on side gig's doing marketing campaigns for Zildjian. He met Neil at the headquarters in Norwell, Massachusetts, and quite literally had no idea who he was. They got to talking and when Neil found out he occasionally gigged as a banjo player in a bluegrass band, he took quite an interest. They ended up talking for quite some time about the interesting time signatures in bluegrass, jazz and other genres.
I had a good laugh when he told me about that conversation. If he'd known who Neil was... if he'd even mentioned the word 'Rush', Neil would have probably clammed up and got out of there. But the fact that they were just chatting like a couple regular guys with similar interests was probably a big relief to him. I got the impression that Neil wasn't "introverted" per se... he just didn't want to have 'that' conversation over and over again.
Well said
Neal Peart is a lyrical genius. I recommend “Subdivisions” - a very meaningful song in many ways.
Excellent recommendation!
good album my favourite song from that album was "losing it "
Conform or be cast out
So, in reality, It wasn't Geddy Lee's, the lead singer's vocabulary, the lyrics came from the Drummer Neil Peart. He was a poet of lyrics. In fact, he was a voracious reader. Alex Lifeson the guitarist and Geddy Lee, saw him and said, "look at him, he reads a lot of books he could probably write the lyrics to our songs," and write he did. Geddy later admitted trying to sing his lyrics was very challenging because they were so ethereal.
I am a published poet and feel Neil Peart is one of the most underrated poets in history. He didn't write songs; he wrote world-class poetry put to music. They call him the "Professor" of drums-when he was just as accomplished as a wordsmith.
Red Barchetta and the Trees are songs with great lyrical writing
Neal was a lot like Gordon Litefoot there lyrics really draw a picture and tell a story in a unique manner.
Did he miss the Shakespearean lyrics or does he not know Shakespeare at all?
@@jameydbI remember 8th grade English class was studying Shakespeare and the lyrics for "As I Like It" from Shakespeare was on the blackboard. When I saw them I was sure we were going to be studying RUSH that day. It was the first time I enjoyed that class.
Rush are simply the best three piece rock band ever, period. Master musicians, master composers, and as you noticed- the lyrics? Amazing. Neil Peart, as well as being one of the greatest rock drummers ever, was a lyricist beyond compare.
Imagine being a 15-year-old kid, you've never been to a rock concert or a live show in your life and an older kid in the neighborhood asks if you'd like to go with him and a bunch of other guys to see a show tonight. You beg your mother to go. She says yes and you sit down and you see the concert for the permanent waves album and they start off with Spirit of Radio. It was an unbelievable experience. I couldn't believe three musicians could put out so much quality quality sound and they just love performing for their audiences. If you guys do some research, you'll find out they're one of the most fan-friendly bands out there. They kept their ticket prices low and they toured every album and they pretty much put out an album almost every year. I was lucky enough to catch the next three albums they put out including this one moving pictures. It was just fabulous live show. I think I actually saw them twice on that tour. They are just amazing! Thanks so much for all you do and for sharing. Keep up the great work!
Rush was my first concert. I think I was 12 or 13 & went with my dad. Test for Echo tour (pretty much the Different Stages live album). I was beyond floored
I attended my first Rush show at 11, also my very first concert. I went with my older brother because he was supposed to be watching me. I went on to see them 27 more times.
Kiss was my first, so I can relate to the awe, but the Rush shows I saw after were incredible...and, yes, better.
Í don't have to imagine it. I have almost the exact same story, albeit a few years earlier. My first Rush show was the 2112 tour in 1976. They were still an opening act at the first show in March. By June of '76 they were the headliner at Toronto's Massey Hall. The All The World's A Stage album was recorded at those Toronto shows if you're interested.
Thank you, for sharing such a great and heart-felt story.
One of the great things to realize about Rush is 3 guys in the studio and 3 guys in concert. Geddy Lee is a master lead vocalist, bass guitar player, and keyboard player.
Amazing band!
Those who wish to “Seem”, vs those who wish to “Be”! Is an underrated and unnoticed line by many due to the lyrical cadence, it it’s crucial to the message. Cheers and Rush on!
"Gilded Cage" is a metaphor in this song. We think of birds in cages, but a human that lives in a mansion, surrounded by beautiful things, et al., may not be allowed to just leave at will (like if you're super famous), hence their beautiful mansion is a "cage". They would be said to be living in a gilded cage.
That’s an excellent explanation of that lyric.
Sting 🐝 used gilded cage in his song If You Love Somebody, Set Them Free.
The lyrics in Limelight are generously influenced by the writing of one of The Masters, Shakespeare. Any individual who is well read, knows this.
@@ilikeonlygraphite Yes, I recognize that! His prose/poetry catches the ear lol.
@lethasatterfield9615 in fact, he never did shy away from revealing who influenced his writing. The hints appear all throughout his career. I had to laugh at one such comment. The individual spoke of Sting writing in reference to the term "gilded cage", possibly implying he got it from Peart. If he did, well he got from Peart, who got it from Shakespeare. The trickle down effect. 😉
"I can't pretend a stranger is a long-awaited friend" is my favorite line in the song as well. This is my favorite Rush song, although i love many of them.
There are a few lyrics that have stayed with me for a long time. This is one! The other is from Territories: "Better the pride that resides...in a citizen of the world...than the pride that divides when a colorful rag is unfurled".
The issue with me as an introvert with autistic tendencies is that I have difficulty even treating people I know but don't meet very often as if I know them. For whatever reason, I just can't do small talk unless I'm drunk.
From 86' to 89' I worked at the local rock station (radio) and part of my job was dealing with the music acts that came in to do interviews so I got to meet allot of my rock hero's during that time. I met Neil Peart twice when he and Geddy and Alex all came in, all I'll say is Neil was one of the nicest rockstars I've ever met but so was Alex and Geddy. I think that's one of the reasons why they are so loved they were great musicians who played really complex music but never came off as snobs, they just acted the way they were, just regular guys.
"A Bird in a Gilded Cage" is an old phrase that is used metaphorically in this song to describe Neil's frustration with being a celebrity. The phrase has always been used to describe a life of apparent wealth and luxury, without the freedom to come and go at will, or just live an anonymous life. Neil hated that aspect of being a musician, but loved the music and loved performing. It was just his way of putting it out there, acknowledging it, and getting on with the music.
I read somewhere that some rock journalist was assigned to follow them around on tour and do a sort of “journal” type thing, and he was stoked thinking that these hard rockin dudes were going to be partying all the time. Turns out, Rush had a competition going to see who could read the most books on that tour
You nailed it on the line "I cant pretend the stranger is a long awaited friend". The drummer Neil wrote the lyrics and he is a very private person and was constantly approached by die hard drummer fans who just completely geek out on him. He disliked it when people told him how amazing he was and often shied away from that kind of fan behavior.
The line you thought you might be harping on, you werent. It's the key lyric in the entire piece.
If you finally dive down the Rush rabbit hole not only will your vocabulary improve, you will be absolutely blown away by the talent oozing from all three of these musical geniuses. Please take the dive, Rush is a one of a kind band that changed what a rock song could be.
The meaningful lyrics combined with the complex drumming and time signature changes make this quite a gem from Rush. Such a super talented group.
Neil Peart was a legendary musician and a beautiful person. He definitely faced some hardships with the loss of his wife and his daughter and then eventually his own cancer. He will always be a hero of mine!
😂Mamma here Welcome to our three Canadian masters! Rush 40+ yrs of amazing tunes. Mr Geddy Lee lead vocals, Bass, synth. Then the Professor Drummer, percussionist, lyricist Mr Neil Peart. Mr Alex Lifeson on guitar. Three friends who meet in high-school. Decided to play music. They have a stage presence you feel in your soul. They fed off each other. No bullshit, they got along like a well crafted wine. We got three hour concerts. Wait till you get to 2112 ( the year) It has 7 parts. The video with the cartoon strip helps to see and read the story to unfold. 😅 20 minutes it was the whole side of the album. The rabbit hole is an awesome ride. Xanadu, would be a great next . Great reaction Cheers
RIP Neal Peart. The GOAT drummer! The house is in Canada because that's where they're from.
In the Toronto area.
@@billboth6572 Le Studio was north of Montreal.
@@billboth6572 Morin Heights, Quebec, not far from Neil's then home.
Wow, welcome to it brother, my first album bought with lawn mowing money was 2112 in 1976...RUSH is a rabbit hole's, rabbit hole.
I love RUSH my fellow Canadians! I grew up listening to RUSH and they were so phenomenally gifted and so so far ahead of their time!!!
Now this is a rabbit hole that can take a long time to crawl out of
My husband still hasn't found his way out of this rabbit hole - lol
Out of? Who would want to do that? It’s already a long enough crawl into it, anyway. 😄
The song describes Neal's relationship with fame. He was a classic introvert who loved playing, teaching and learning about drums.
When I was 14 years old my english teacher assigned us to pick our favorite song and translate each line to what the song was saying and meaning. This was my song that I picked and I've seen Rush 14 times in concert. This assignment made me really dissect lyrics of songs throughout my entire life and if a song has a meaning I'm not down with I won't listen to it. The best english class assignment I've ever had and I sent my english teacher a message about 3 years ago to tell her thank you! Neil Peart wrote all the songs for Rush and his nickname was " the Professor". I love this group!!!
That's Awesome !
@@lockandloadshari very few (if any) of the lyrics in Rush's catalogue are bubblegum popcorn fluff.
I've said elsewhere CFNY an early "Alternative rock" station in Toronto had "Spirit of Radio" as their slogan which from my understanding was where the title came from.
BP, 'gilded cage' is a metaphor for a 'nice' prison. Beautiful surroundings, beautiful appointments, anything you want service, BUT, you are still a prisoner.
Absolutely need to check out Neal Peart drum solo.
Oh yes
It started playing in my head when i read this. I hope he does a reaction to that. It would be super entertaining
Live in Frankfurt, baby 👍
Love it! At 15:41 into your reaction, Neil Peart was pounding the drums so hard, his headphones were slipping off! Go back & look. This band was incredibly talented, not only in master musicianship, but Neil Peart's lyrics were very deep & intellectually poetic.
Growing up on the US/CAN border, I was exposed to Canadian groups a lot sooner than most others, and RUSH has been my all time favorite. I got even more intotheir music when my aunt married this unassuming guy while they were both in the Army in Germany in 1982; Uncle Gary was a true fan(atic), a Leadr amongst Rats. When he passed a few years ago due to service related issues ( He was a SNCO in the Army's Chem Corps - NBRNE Warfare Specialist), we played damn near the entire RUSH catalog at his wake, and Geddy hisself sent a tribute and eulogy.
Geddy Lee Bass,keyboards and vocals, Alex Lifeson Guitars, Neil Peart drums, and percussion. 3 Genius 's that put out some of the best music of all time!!!!
RUSH FINALLY! The group has been awarded 24 gold, 14 platinum and 3 multi-platinum albums. They accomplished this feat with almost NO AIRPLAY! Subbed for more.
Listening to RUSH will make you smarter 😉
THIS cannot be overstated! "Progressive" rock bands were not mainstream nor did they make "Corporate rock" music for the radio.
Metal bands (Like Metallica) suffered the same way (at least until their self-title "black" album had a more mainstream sound). Metal bands like Metallica and Iron Maiden, Dio etc, became hugely popular without radio airplay. They became popular through concerts and word-of-mouth.
This was the wild thing, and is so hard to explain to folks. You never heard Rush, but you knew all their songs. Their songs, once you heard them from a friend or such just stuck in your head.
The local rock station played Rush plenty back in the day. In fact, its where I heard my first Rush song, Tom Sawyer on a stereo I rescued from a dumpster. I had to listen for it again to find out the name of the band (remember, no internet back in the early 80s). Once I found out, I went out and snapped up a cassette, and when they came out, the CD (I still have it).
Rush are musical geniuses. The only band of 3 guys that can sound like a lot more. Subdivisions, another song of theirs, will blow your mind with the deep thoughts behind it.
Geddy sings like his voice is an instrument. The syllables are sung like notes. That is why he can sing almost anything.
Neil Peart is the lyricist for many of the bands songs (RIP). He was a virtuoso drummer and his fanciful, flowery lyrics are just at home in song as they would be in a fantasy poem.
Probably my fav song by Rush. The ending of this song is just amazing!
OMG. Dude. I have listened to this song since the 80s, and have never checked out the lyrics. This is fantastic. Thanks for doing what you do.
That's what I always said ,growing up with these bands it was music 1st that attracted me ,half the times couldn't make out the words. Many bands had inserts included in their album covers with the lyrics...
That was a great reaction video. This is a song I grew up listening to. I'm now 54 years old and I still love this song. Thanks for sharing. Peace.
Rush is one hell of a massive rabbit hole. This band was so great on so many virtuosic levels. I was privileged to see them a handful of times & they were always so on point.
Subdivisions would be another one you would really dig. It is so layered with such a great hook…..
They are the gold standard of musicianship.
One of the best bands ever three men made all of that music. Best drummer of all time!(Neil peart)
Lifelong Rush fan, over a dozen concerts attended. Appreciate you diving into their music. The Trees is one of my favorite songs of theirs and would love to see you react to it. It’s a highly underrated song!
The Trees is one of mine, too. Brilliant. 🤩
Hall of Fame, Rush!!! They are an iconic Band!!
Your perspective of "Let's just get to the music", that is spot-on. For Rush, it was never about FAME, writ large; never about the pursuit of wealth and glory, for its own sake. They are first and foremost musicians. In fact, they are famously known as the "musicians' musician" or "your favorite musician's favorite musician", right? They were dedicated to learning their instruments to the highest degree and then, once they did that (which they had, by the end of the 1970s), they turned their attentions to being the best songwriters they could be, during the 1980s and following. But through it all, their top motivation was the music. It was their religion, practically! They were not over-awed by fame and wealth or the "Rock Star lifestyle", which is one important way they kept from burning out or blowing up, as people. They were kind of "boring", relative to the typical Rock Star biography. But that is what helped them keep their focus on serving the fans and keeping a high level of professionalism, throughout their 40+ year career!
hands down my favorite band. Late 70s, stoned in a friend's basement after school, getting mind blown by Rush. A good times.
RUSH- impeccable musicianship and creativity.
Your interpretation wasn’t wrong. You read it perfectly.
Like others have said, the drummer writes most of the lyrics. The singer/bassist/keyboard player just has a great connection with the drummer.
The best "radio friendly" song ever produced. Masterpiece. There are "those who wish to seem" (pretenders) and "those who wish to be" (authentic artists, fame is an unwanted byproduct)
You need to react to
Their song "The Spirit of Radio"
Rush are awesome story tellers...
Neil mentioned one of the things about being a rock star is fans knocking on the door of your hotel room. Neil Peart loved The Who. He went to see them as often as he could when he was younger. He literally worshiped them. But he said he could never envision himself going to the hotel where The Who was staying and knocking on the door of Keith Moon's room. When Neil wrote Limelight, he acknowledge he loved making music in a rock band, but as an introvert, he didn't love the life of being a rock star. Bob Seger sings about a similar topic in his song "Turn The Page" (which you've already reacted to).
This whole album is fabulous. First concert I went to was Rush…Moving Pictures. Changed my life as a young teenager. YYZ live from Rio is your next destination. Really highlights their instrument ability. Has no words but the crowd sings the notes. Very cool.
RUSH...Look at FLY BY NIGHT!! Love them
"All the world's indeed a stage, and we are merely players" is a paraphrase of a Shakespeare line.
Keep on keepin' on, man!
I remember when Sebastian Bach was in an interview talking about his love for Rush, he mentioned that they were not only amazing musicians but they should be credited for introducing audiences to Shakespeare. It was commonly known as a reference to The Bard back in the day, but I think fewer people read Shakespeare these days which is a shame.
My favorite band of all time. 2112 was a groundbreaking album back in the day.
The loudest 3 pce orchestra ever!! To be expected from 3 gentlemen that have perfected their craft . Greetings from YYZ 🇨🇦
RIP Professor
To me, the song is a warning.
It's basically saying in a pleasant way, "Yeah, you think you want to be a famous rock star. Here's what they dont tell you and what your life will be like. You'll live in a beautiful home, but you can't leave because you'll be harassed anywhere you try and go. People will think they know you. In reality, they only know the image you put forth.When they meet you in person, they'll act like some long lost BFF and want to hug on you, but you have no idea who they are and can't have personal space. Also, you're gonna have to act happy to see them no matter how tired you are or how bad they smell or anything else. You're probably a little socially awkward, and that's too bad because you have to be the coolest dude in the room wherever you go, no matter how you're feeling today. You need to always be in character. Because you're always performing even when not on stage."
Yet another band I have seen 4 times, beginning in 78 with the 2112 tour. You have now stepped into the World Of Rush!!!❤
Geddy Lee’s voice is pure magic
Their drummer was the best that ever lived RIP Neal!! ❤ Rush spawned many many rock artists! ❤❤ So glad you are reacting to Rush Geddy Lee the singer is amazing
Rush was known as the thinking man's rock band. Very complex lyrics, seldom about boy/girl relationships. But instead about being a star, breaking from family or neighborhood norms.
"I can't pretend the stranger is a long awaited firend" IS the best line. Words matter. In the show crowd, pre-social, fans were complete strangers. And not just someone to say hello to or you know but a long-awaited friend. Yet fans often assume that realationship due to the closeness to the songs and music. Incredibly personal song.
RIP Neil. A virtual friend.
Greatest Drummer Ever!!!
I really appreciate you taking the time to research something new mid song instead of asking for comments to answer all your questions.
Rush is a class act, probably the cleanest band to ever play.
When they opened for KISS, Gene said they would party after the gigs, but Rush went to their rooms and watched tv.
Probably the most respectable band in the last 5 or 6 decades.
RIP ‘The Professor’ Neil Peart
This is Neil Peart’s manifesto as an introvert. Always struggled with the exposure that came from being such a successful band.
Geddy Lee is easily one of the greatest Musicians of all time; not to mention his singing. He has a timeshare on the fiery lake; but he doesn't try to sell it off to other people... Very honorable.
The studio that much of this video was shot, was called Le Studio located in Morin Heights, Quebec (north of Montreal) and was dubbed “Rush’s Abby Road”. Sadly the studio closed in early 2000’s and then fire got most of it in 2017. This was the home to many other famous bands as well, like The Police, Chicago, Bee Gee’s and Bowie to name a few. I used to live near the studio and would drive by it every day on the way to work hoping to catch a glimpse of someone famous. A Great studio that created great music.
Rush "TOM SAWYER" (original video) Don't pause during the drum solo. It's quick, but AMAZING. Neil Peart is in the top 2 of all drummers ever, IMO. My other top favorite drummer is Stewart Copeland from the band The Police. Both of these drummers are skilled beyond measure. 🙌🔥🔥
I saw Rush 23 times and every show was so special to experience. The lead singer is Geddy Lee but the words are Niel Peart the percussionist. All of their songs will take you on a journey.
The drummer & lyricist for the band Neil Peart (pronounced Pee-urt) is & was widely considered the greatest rock drummer of all time. He was admittedly VERY uncomfortable with the fame & notoriety he received from fans & the media. I can't pretend a stranger is, a long awaited friend.
The greatest rock band of all time
Regarding, "I can't pretend a stranger is a long-awaited friend" Neil, the lyricist said, back in his days they looked up to The Who as one of the great bands but he could never imagine himself hanging outside their hotel room trying to approach them like they knew him. It kind of creeped him out to think that. Neil was not comfortable in the limelight and often, he would not even get on the tour bus and just ride his motorcycle anonymously to the next gig and even would use credit cards and IDs with different names to stay anonymous.
The drummer wrote all the lyrics. He did tons of reading, so therefore full of knowledge!
I am really surprised to learn that some people don't know what a gilded cage is. Anyway, thanks for reacting to my favorite Rush song.
Geddy's bass is SICK!
If you want the more philosophical type lyrics from Neil, check out Natural Science. It is a longer song, but well worth it.
Growing up in the Toronto area in the 70's and 80's, I had no idea how privileged we were to see RUSH on a regular basis. Great bands were just the norm.
I'm not sure if thus is your first Rush reaction, but you have to do Tom Sawyer. Neal Peart was always travelling through places like Africa on his touring bike to listen to native musicians especially percussionists .. he continued to expand his one of a kind knowledge until he passed. His live solos are a joy to watch... He speaks through his craft. Thanks for paying respect for this incredible 3 man band from Canada!
I love seeing people react to the pure genius that is Rush... When you watch them it is hard to decide where to focus, because it's like being at a 3 ring circus, 3 musical geniuses each at the top of their profession... Dive deep my man, there are so many great songs and the lyrics are always deep and meaningful!?
As mentioned before, 'Gilded Cage' is a metaphor for being 'trapped' in the world of fame, money, possessions, etc. Neil was very private. This song was his statement about how he felt about fame..."I can't pretend a stranger is a long awaited friend.' Neil was a prolific reader and writer. He's authored several books. Le Studio(the house) was in Quebec and was a recording studio they once used. Your analysis was spot on.
Excellent reaction! Best band ever!! Keep the RUSH coming! You’ll love it!! Be well and God bless… from Texas!!!
He just witnessed one of the finest drummers to ever live. RIP!
Alex is also a genius level guitarist.
I was blessed enough in life having seen Rush 5 times live in Minneapolis in my lifetime!
I grew up in a town outside Toronto and they lived in the next town and we were playing in the park and heard music coming from the factories and we climbed on the dumpsters to watch in the window and saw them rocking out making the most impressive music we had ever heard. They saw us and came out and talked to us about hockey ( cause that's what we Canadians do😂) we talked about the music they were recording and their cars they had beautiful cars. Geddy and Alex gave us guitar picks and Neil gave us drumsticks they were so down to earth and humble and when I was older I saw them live twice, once in front of 500,000 crazy Canadians at the SARS relief concert. Spirit of radio must be next my friend. Great reaction and Peace out ✌️ ☮️ 🙏
LOVE limelight. LOVE Tom Sawyer. RUSH is definitely in my top 5 rock bands.
Honestly, your reactions are the most thoughtful and insightful on UA-cam. Nothing superficial at all. You truly listen, think, and analyze. So glad I came across your channel. A new subscriber for sure. Looking forward to digging in deeper.
Thank you! I really enjoyed watching and listening to your impressions of my favorite band!
Another great Canadian Band! Love RUSH & Geddy Lee (Lead Singer) has such a unique voice. Love your reactions, thanks for sharing.
Did you catch the Shakespeare allusion? 'All the world's a stage' is from Hamlet, I believe. Rush is the most literate rock band ever.
I can't pretend this stranger is a long awaited friend... Awesome line
Respect! Really like your approach and the link to something personal. But I do love you stopping to learn something new as so many just don't give the time or fear of being embarrassed of not knowing. TY Cheers
The greatest drummer in rock history.
This is a top 50 song for me all-time.
I was fortunate enough to see Rush live in the early 2000s, even as older men they threw it down, played a 3 hour set, no opener, they just laid it down.. Neal Peart Sat on a pedestal, him and his drum set were lifted way above the stage, an experience I'll never forget or take for granted.. saw the Rolling Stones in the 90s also.. I missed the Pink Floyd Pulse tour unfortunately I was just a tad young.. 17..
The amazing thing to me is that all of their music comes from just the three people you see in the video!
We jammed to RUSH all the time not only is the meaning of the song deep but dang they can ROCK it out too.....great reaction dive deeper please....
I will never get tired of Rush. Three absolute geniuses.
RUSH is my all-time favorite band. The talent from these three is limitless. Neil Peart is THE GOAT of drummer's. I saw them boundless times up until Peart passed. I even got to meet the band back stage when I was a teenager. Well, all except Peart, who was always in the dressing room reading. If you want to hear a mind blowing album, listen to Caress of Steel. Also, check out Moving Pictures. I realize their sound is an acquired taste, but NO ONE can deny the sheer talent of these guys. I could go on and on about this band and their music.
Neil Peart...your favorite drummer's favorite drummer....RIP the Professor
Neil Peart, the drummer and lyricist of Rush, was heavily involved in writing most of the band’s songs. He was a heavy reader and his vocabulary was out of this world.
Rush is great, love Geddy Lee’s voice!!❤ This is an awesome song!!❤❤
Enjoy your reactions!!👏👏