The Bass Line That Separates the Good from the Great

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  • Опубліковано 12 січ 2025

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  • @sgt.grinch3299
    @sgt.grinch3299 9 місяців тому +544

    This is why RUSH will never be copied or outdated. They are truly one of a kind set of musicians. RIP Neil and God bless Geddy & Alex.

    • @mpalmer7484
      @mpalmer7484 9 місяців тому +7

      Amen

    • @aeynosarturii8053
      @aeynosarturii8053 9 місяців тому +15

      They truly are a band where there is no "best" member. They are all masters of their craft.

    • @48Ballen
      @48Ballen 9 місяців тому +1

      Truly awful!!! This is nothing but noise... How people confuse this with music is amazing..

    • @AJ-jy6lb
      @AJ-jy6lb 8 місяців тому +8

      @@48Ballen - I wholeheartedly agree! Truly awful Nothing but noise.
      How people confuse this as coming from someone who isn't a hate-filled dweeb is amazing.
      See how that works?

    • @jondickers156
      @jondickers156 7 місяців тому +5

      @@48Ballen well i guess you could go back to hillbilly music or bust out crying country

  • @RCAvhstape
    @RCAvhstape 9 місяців тому +276

    Glad you chose a live performance. These three guys played like this night after night for 40+ years and killed it every single show, never phoned it in or slacked off. Just an awesome band. RIP Professor Peart.

    • @Fear_the_Doughnut
      @Fear_the_Doughnut 9 місяців тому +5

      Yeah they were a three ring circus, you never knew which one to look at.

    • @1StinkyFinger
      @1StinkyFinger 9 місяців тому +1

      If only they played rock and roll

    • @RCAvhstape
      @RCAvhstape 9 місяців тому +11

      @@1StinkyFinger Sorry they didn't live down to your baseness. For guys like you there's always Nickelback.

    • @gb6003
      @gb6003 9 місяців тому

      @@RCAvhstape Nickelback is worse than Rush! What's in that mellow Canadian water, ehh??? There is no rock and roll DNA there for sure.

    • @RCAvhstape
      @RCAvhstape 9 місяців тому +2

      @@gb6003 You also sound like a Nickleback fan. Or maybe Limp Bizkit is more your speed.

  • @es330td
    @es330td 5 місяців тому +140

    A neighbor's son auditioned for acceptance in a music program with bass as his instrument. He played the bass line from YYZ from memory. At the end of the audition one of the professors on the panel said "Son, we aren't supposed to do this in an audition, but *damn* that was amazing." Needless to say he got in.

    • @fernandoroblesbass
      @fernandoroblesbass 2 місяці тому +4

      What a Great story!! that´s why I love to read the comments on videos like this!! Thanks for Sharing!!

  • @lisaharrison1031
    @lisaharrison1031 9 місяців тому +343

    Rush is untouchable!! I have been a fan since I was 16 & I am 65 now!!
    Great reaction and your bass playing is awesome.
    You’re right Ged is a beast. As far as I’m concerned it doesn’t get any better than Ged, Al & Neil. Keep Rushing!! 🤘🎶💜

    • @Boss_Tanaka
      @Boss_Tanaka 9 місяців тому +8

      I used to like the song " Stereo" from Pavement and at some point the lyrics says:
      ’What about the voice of Geddy Lee
      How did it get so high?’
      I was thinking who the hell is Geddy Lee. I did my own research just out of curiosity and that s how I discovered Rush
      I was blown away ! I instantly became a big fan.
      This story happened in 2022, i was 49!

    • @GrouchoTM
      @GrouchoTM 9 місяців тому +7

      54 myself! Love Rush! Been listening since I was 14!

    • @lisaharrison1031
      @lisaharrison1031 9 місяців тому +2

      @@Boss_Tanakathat’s a great story!! Keep Rushing brother!!

    • @robzilla60
      @robzilla60 9 місяців тому

      Agreed Lisaharrison1031. I am 64 now and have been a Rush fan since their first album. Musical background in HS, and sang in a few garage bands since, had some fun with it.....Rush blew me away from the start. A lot of my cohorts were put off by Geddy's vocals but they fit! Seen them 6 times through the years and loved it. This UA-cam vid so perfectly illustrates how badass and tight all 3 of them are. RIP Neil, and best wishes Geddy and Alex.

    • @joelclark9944
      @joelclark9944 9 місяців тому +1

      You mean spirit of the radio correct​@@Boss_Tanaka

  • @jerejaco
    @jerejaco 9 місяців тому +120

    When I was in my 20s I was a pretty good bassist and could play a lot of Rush songs, but damn, I never could play YYZ at the right speed. My fingers just couldn't move fast enough. Mad respect to any bassist who nails YYZ.

    • @PhonePole68
      @PhonePole68 9 місяців тому +3

      I’ve played 40 years and know a small part in closer to the heart. It’s the only Rush I know. I was doing Maiden, Metallica, Pantera, lol. So I have the speed, three and four fingers sometimes (double thumbing). I live in Neil’s hometown and grew up on Rush, so it’s ingrained in my head but not my hands 😂.

    • @jerejaco
      @jerejaco 9 місяців тому +3

      @@PhonePole68 Yeah, Rush basslines are extremely difficult. I remember how frustrated I was when I started first playing bass how I could only play a few of the simpler Beatles, Stones, Who, and Led Zeppelin bass lines. It took a few years to get to the point where I could play some of the easier Rush basslines. Not that there's anything wrong with simple basslines - I stopped playing entirely during my 30s and 40s and developed a repetitive strain injury. I can't use my left pinky and I can't play for too long, so the songs I play now tend to be fairly simple basslines, and I've developed a real love and appreciation for them. I try now to focus on playing in the pocket as much as possible (lol, I'm still not great at that) and trying to lock in with the drummer. Totally different to the "hey, look at me" approach I took in my 20s. But now it's just about having fun and enjoying myself, while back then it was super serious and obsessed with trying to get our band signed and quit our regular jobs, lol. Way less stressful this way.

    • @PhonePole68
      @PhonePole68 9 місяців тому +2

      @@jerejaco just found out my other shoulder is torn. The Who the real me I can do, or roundabout by yes. 13+mins of Rime of the ancient mariner np. Pain is bad at certain points, in some songs. I wanted an upright but that’s out of picture. No motorcycle, bicycle. And the wife complains about my limited positions 😂😂😂

    • @tommyfender1968
      @tommyfender1968 9 місяців тому +2

      I have tried for years to nail this. I can get the opening bit, and the first part. But can not hit the solos. I see kids (age 7) in UA-cam playing it, and I actually get annoyed. 😂
      Same thing with the latter parts of Freewill, I have the first part of the solo, till he really takes off and I can only throw up my hands

    • @TestyMcTestypants
      @TestyMcTestypants Місяць тому

      That's because you only have 10 fingers.

  • @EleanorPeterson
    @EleanorPeterson 9 місяців тому +139

    For anybody new to Rush, please watch the 'Rush In Rio' version of YYZ - it's fantastic, and the crowd knows ALL the lyrics! 😁

    • @beatlesrgear
      @beatlesrgear 9 місяців тому +6

      🤣🤣

    • @AJ-jy6lb
      @AJ-jy6lb 7 місяців тому +2

      Cheeky,...very, very cheeky,...LOL
      And i like it,...LMAO! :oP
      That is a great show though,...agreed.

    • @HyperCupcake88
      @HyperCupcake88 6 місяців тому +1

      I sang it at karaoke. Ppl loved it!

    • @randy6999
      @randy6999 6 місяців тому

      You HAVE to read Geddys book!

    • @andrewball1898
      @andrewball1898 6 місяців тому +3

      The YYZ Rio Singers and the standing ovation at the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame Induction exemplify the depth RUSH penetrated into their fans.
      Nonverbal Communication at its finest!!!

  • @LobsterDunn
    @LobsterDunn 9 місяців тому +84

    This is possibly the best breakdown i've seen on YT regarding this tricky song. You cut to the chase and play it well then go on to tab it ...superb.

    • @BassFreedom
      @BassFreedom  9 місяців тому +7

      I really appreciate that! Thank you! More to come 🤘😊

  • @hmedina79
    @hmedina79 9 місяців тому +34

    First time hearing Rush. This literally blew my mind!!!

    • @augustusbetucius2931
      @augustusbetucius2931 9 місяців тому +8

      Literally? Then how did you write that?

    • @beatlesrgear
      @beatlesrgear 9 місяців тому +5

      Welcome to the Rush lovers club. Pop in a CD or put on an album, crank it up, and rock out!! 😄

    • @SanchoPanza-m8m
      @SanchoPanza-m8m 9 місяців тому +1

      RIP you.

    • @zwastiunburzy3688
      @zwastiunburzy3688 9 місяців тому +6

      Most people say that about their "first time". Congratulations, you are no longer a Rush virgin.🤓👍

    • @denmalski
      @denmalski 8 місяців тому +9

      @@zwastiunburzy3688 C'mon now most Rush fans are virgins lol

  • @stevecowder4774
    @stevecowder4774 9 місяців тому +25

    An excellent breakdown of Geddy’s nifty play on that gargantuan instrumental, especially live. What a truly impressive display of his talent. In fact, Geddy is one of the most multi talented musicians in rock.
    And imo, they’re the greatest trio EVER. I saw them live in ‘ 83 during the Signals tour, but they also performed every song from the Moving Pictures album. Will never forget that. Then again, Rush IS unforgettable !!

    • @colins2
      @colins2 5 місяців тому

      Yup, so did I. I saw them in Miami - what a night!

  • @grayslayers
    @grayslayers 9 місяців тому +27

    Ah RUSH, the backdrop to my whole life. Thanks guys..

  • @annettereynolds7457
    @annettereynolds7457 9 місяців тому +6

    This gig at Birmingham - I was there. The first time I ever saw them. Phenomenal.

    • @johnbiddle7865
      @johnbiddle7865 6 місяців тому +1

      I was there also. I seen them 4 times on that tour (Hold your Fire) twice in Wembley and twice in Birmingham. Still got the t shirt.

  • @Diesel0807
    @Diesel0807 9 місяців тому +41

    The WAL Mk 1 bass .. such a great tone and a great era for rush i think he toured with this bass on power windows hold your fire presto and roll the bones before going back to the fender

    • @Jeff-o-Lee
      @Jeff-o-Lee 7 місяців тому +1

      Geddy toured with the Wal bass from "Hold Your Fire" to "Roll The Bones". He recorded "Power Windows" with producer Peter Collin's Wal bass but, used his Steinberger for PW tour.

    • @CTTH100
      @CTTH100 6 місяців тому +2

      His Wal is my all time favorite sound. Watching/ listening to ASOH just hooked me in for the past 34 years and 19 live shows. Greatest band in both Hemispheres!

    • @martinportelance138
      @martinportelance138 5 місяців тому

      IMO nothing beats the pleasantly aggressive tone of his Rick. Must be the shorter scale. Alas Ricks also come with their own probems, including low output, heavy weight and neck fragility. Maybe that's what pushed GL towards the no-nonsense Jazz bass.

    • @td5272
      @td5272 3 місяці тому +1

      @@CTTH100 feel the same way. ASOH bass tone with that wal is just fantastic. Cuts through the mix like a mofo.

    • @CTTH100
      @CTTH100 3 місяці тому

      @@td5272 Very much so!

  • @BlackJackLopez
    @BlackJackLopez 9 місяців тому +10

    "Btw, are you a bassist?". Regularly, after watching Geddy, I don't feel much of one, to be frank, lol. Grrrreat breakdown! Annnd, I'm suscribed...

  • @yesloow
    @yesloow 9 місяців тому +25

    Dude, as sick as YYZ is, the thing about Geddy Lee is that he is playing crazy bass lines but then he is also singing across them. For example, Digital Man off Signals: listen to the chorus. It blows my mind how he is able to play that bass line and hold a lyric line that syncopates but holds the vocal notes at the same time. Nobody else can do this. He is just so good.

    • @davidprice6222
      @davidprice6222 9 місяців тому

      This song is so sick it made me barf! God I love YYZ...and so much Rush music!

    • @joelclark9944
      @joelclark9944 9 місяців тому

      ​@@davidprice6222yeah trying to play it guitar bass or drums it's badass

    • @jimpetri8984
      @jimpetri8984 7 місяців тому +1

      What’s even more sick is Turn The Page. And he nailed it live.

    • @Darin.Pearson
      @Darin.Pearson 6 місяців тому

      Wonderful comment. I'm not a musician but I do play the drums recreationally and I always enjoy reading these kinds of comments that give me just a little bit more insight to what's going on.

    • @ischmidt
      @ischmidt 2 місяці тому

      ​@@jimpetri8984 The bass player from the Rush Tribute Project said Turn the Page is the hardest of all of their songs to play and sing live. I've seen Geddy do it and I'm still not convinced it's humanly possible.

  • @davidjorgensen877
    @davidjorgensen877 9 місяців тому +93

    As a Canadian, I thank you for acknowledging the correct pronunciation of the song's title at the beginning: "Why-Why-ZED!!!"

    • @davidjorgensen877
      @davidjorgensen877 9 місяців тому +11

      I assume most Rush fans know the backstory, but for anyone who doesn't: YYZ is the location identifier for Pearson International Airport in Toronto. After months-long worldwide tours, the exhausted trio would always rejoice at the sight of their luggage tags displaying YYZ - it meant they were going home! What more inspiration do you need for composing one of the most badass prog-rock instrumentals of all time?

    • @marpsr
      @marpsr 9 місяців тому +16

      Also for pronouncing Peart correctly

    • @RCAvhstape
      @RCAvhstape 9 місяців тому +14

      @@marpsr For those of us who remember life before the internet, we grew up pronouncing his name "pert" like the shampoo. Also, Moog was pronounced like "moon" instead of "mogue". And YYZ was, if you were an American, yy "Zee". We only had album liner notes and magazine articles to go by, and there wasn't an army of pedantic a-holes correcting us every time we spoke.

    • @drgruber57
      @drgruber57 9 місяців тому +11

      Just who is Zed, and why is he being questioned? 😆

    • @CD_Character
      @CD_Character 9 місяців тому +12

      @@davidjorgensen877 All true. As well, they could hear the repeating Morse Code for YYZ coming from the cockpit as their plane would be on final approach into Pearson. It's that rhythm that inspired the opening.
      “dash dot dash dash, dash dot dash dash, dash dash dot dot”

  • @OswaldBatesIIIEsq
    @OswaldBatesIIIEsq 2 місяці тому +3

    2:53 That's the bass tone that I love. That tone right there.

  • @foto21
    @foto21 9 місяців тому +19

    Subdivisions come out in this era. Man, that song kicks ass. Neil never repeats any fills. I love that song.

    • @RoadRashHD
      @RoadRashHD 7 місяців тому +1

      Love that song. It's all about high school clicks

    • @williamh4172
      @williamh4172 4 місяці тому

      Yep. Subdivisions was on the Signals album, YYZ was on the previous album- Moving Pictures. I saw them live for both of those tours.

  • @paulhovey5094
    @paulhovey5094 9 місяців тому +9

    Lol to Dobby chillin' in the dark diggin' some Rush! Killer song, I will never get tired of hearing anything Rush. Geddy is the man!

  • @WallopinSilver
    @WallopinSilver 9 місяців тому +17

    I have seen them 9 times live in their hometown! First show I saw was on March 24 1981 at Maple Leaf Gardens. The price on the ticket was $10.50 Canadian dollars. Just looked at the ticket. No words to describe how great these guys are. Been a fan since they started. To think, they played at the high school I went to. (a few years before I got there) One of the best, if not, the best power trio's EVER!

    • @CD_Character
      @CD_Character 9 місяців тому +3

      My first Rush concert was on the 2112 tour, with Max Webster opening.

    • @wiseonelol25
      @wiseonelol25 8 місяців тому +2

      For several years, they played Maple Leaf Gardens every New Years Eve! The show always sold out so quick, they always added a second show the night before, and for 4 or 5 years straight, I went to both! Sadly, I didn't get the chance to see them much in the last few decades, but thank goodness for the internet and youtube, we will always be able to enjoy their live performances for ever, right up to the end and the R40 tour! Master musicians all!!!

    • @Islanddweller18
      @Islanddweller18 6 місяців тому

      @@wiseonelol25I was right there with you. I taught you how to pass the dutchie from the left hand side. Cheers

  • @murmerjangle3016
    @murmerjangle3016 5 місяців тому +10

    To give Geddy the full credit he deserves, he often sang, played bass AND played Moog Taurus synth pedal lines with his feet all at the same time.

    • @dw8840
      @dw8840 Місяць тому

      And never missed a beat going between bass and keyboard

  • @VicarOfMayhem
    @VicarOfMayhem 9 місяців тому +10

    Love Rush, this song and your enthusiasm! Saw them live on the Signals, Grace Under Pressure, and Presto tours, amazing each time! I've been a fan of the band and YYZ since 1981, RIP Neil

  • @mcorvin9029
    @mcorvin9029 7 місяців тому +6

    i’ve been lucky to experience Rush live from early days to the last tours. More even than their incredible musicianship, composition & performance, it was the great sense i got of the joy & fun they had playing together that i remember most.

  • @adude394
    @adude394 8 місяців тому +17

    Rush were such an astoundingly great band. Absolute professionals, too. I'm hard-pressed to think of another band that worked so hard to provide their fans with the best possible product. I recall an interview with Geddy where the interviewer asked him how he prepared his parts to play live, and his response was something like, "What the hell was I thinking when I wrote this??? Better get out to the woodshed and get practicing."

  • @stevenschembri1288
    @stevenschembri1288 3 місяці тому +2

    Just another reason why RUSH is the greatest and most talent rock group of all time... Great video!

  • @2dclxvi
    @2dclxvi 9 місяців тому +6

    The intro is the Morse code sequence for the letters YYZ...that's the Toronto Pearson Airport code that the band would hear broadcast in their headphones if they were in the plane's cockpit while approaching Toronto every time they were coming home from a trip.
    It's a song about the thrill of homecoming.

  • @DouglasCroft-w9l
    @DouglasCroft-w9l 8 місяців тому +8

    been a fan since '74. seen them 6 times, always loved the music, and still rock to them. Rush 4 ever.

  • @olivertoeknuckleiii2093
    @olivertoeknuckleiii2093 9 місяців тому +18

    Well, I thought I was a bassist until these whacky Canadians arrived on the scene! Amazing. Untouchable.

  • @pahtar7189
    @pahtar7189 9 місяців тому +34

    I think Alex and Geddy play the guitar and bass like they're one instrument.

  • @LucaGoesOffroad
    @LucaGoesOffroad 8 місяців тому +11

    What makes Rush even greater in my eyes is the amount of pain they went through in their personal lives, and still they managed to create something so beautiful!

    • @Cleme21
      @Cleme21 2 місяці тому

      What pain? It was only Neil. May he now drum in peace.

    • @waynemaddever4061
      @waynemaddever4061 Місяць тому

      @@Cleme21 Geddy's parents were in a concentration camp. It shaped him Hi biography is worth a read

    • @Cleme21
      @Cleme21 Місяць тому

      @@waynemaddever4061 I've read the book, I just feeling Peart's situations.

  • @duaneperkins8329
    @duaneperkins8329 7 місяців тому +22

    How can one group have the best drummer (no one better), the best bassist (or at least top three) and a top 10 guitarist. Just so much sound out of three people! Thank you for the breakdown. 😀

    • @stevenmonte7397
      @stevenmonte7397 7 місяців тому +2

      1/1/and top 5.

    • @matthiasheartman1342
      @matthiasheartman1342 7 місяців тому +2

      Yes Alex maybe just Top Ten. But without his humble and funny personality Rush wouldn't work.

    • @coachhannah2403
      @coachhannah2403 6 місяців тому +1

      Meh. ELP...

    • @JerichoHymer
      @JerichoHymer 4 місяці тому

      Top drummer , until Dave Lombardo then Eloy Casagrande came . He no longer was no. 1

    • @Harmonic14
      @Harmonic14 3 місяці тому

      ​@@JerichoHymercopium

  • @DigitalRackGear
    @DigitalRackGear 9 місяців тому +6

    Amazing demonstrations of the bass solos. This is a worthy performance to feature and thank you for the research and work you put into this.

  • @detonator2112
    @detonator2112 5 місяців тому +3

    That Birmingham, UK concert 1989 "A Show of Hands" was a VHS tape. When I was a kid, I watched it so much that I wore out 3 tapes and I always had to buy a new one. That is one legendary concert. Still remains my all time favorite live performance. It's magical.

  • @soyounoat
    @soyounoat 9 місяців тому +22

    I make this confession: I have been a passionate Rush fan since 2112 was released in 1976, and I have since played electric bass in a dozen or more rock bands of many styles, and although I am no professional musician, I rock it nonetheless. I will learn to play almost anything, but I don't play Rush songs, because I won't do them justice. I will remember Rush music as those three massively talented masters played it. ❤ Neil, Alex, Geddy ❤

    • @martinportelance138
      @martinportelance138 5 місяців тому

      Yeah, John Paul Jones and Geezer Butler were closer to my reach than Geddy Lee or Steve Harris. 😵‍💫

  • @GodzillaGoesGaga
    @GodzillaGoesGaga 9 місяців тому +4

    Being a big Rush fan I have to agree with your assessment on how freaking good they all are as musicians. Your breakdown is awesome and very educational.

  • @PhilipPedro2112
    @PhilipPedro2112 9 місяців тому +38

    I knew it was gonna be YYZ. But Geddy's piece on La Villa Strangiato (Hemispheres) is even more challenging.

    • @Jack68676
      @Jack68676 8 місяців тому +3

      Definitely. Not as well known though.

    • @adamkail4449
      @adamkail4449 7 місяців тому +3

      agree

    • @ArcaneMormon
      @ArcaneMormon 6 місяців тому +10

      The instrumental breakdown on Freewill as well.

    • @lanepattersonbass4183
      @lanepattersonbass4183 6 місяців тому +3

      Ironically, I feel fairly comfortable playing La Villa… YYZ just goes right over my head!

    • @Laisiriana
      @Laisiriana 4 місяці тому +1

      Villa has always been my favorite solo and up there in my favorite songs

  • @TOMPHELAN-ws5tj
    @TOMPHELAN-ws5tj 2 місяці тому +1

    Watched RUSH 3 times. Each show was phenomenal! The craftsmanship is beyond words. What amazes me is, when Alex and Geddy play with another drummer and it’s nowhere near the same

    • @ischmidt
      @ischmidt 2 місяці тому

      Rush is like what George Martin said about the Beatles: the magic is only there when all of them are in the room. I like Geddy and Alex's non-Rush stuff fine, but it's not as good as Rush. I was fortunate to see them 9 times between 1990 and their final tour in 2015.

  • @0TransAtlantic0
    @0TransAtlantic0 7 місяців тому +13

    The vast majority of musicians go to bed each night wishing they could be as good Rush, and wake up to the sad reality that they will never be .0001% as good as Rush.
    Great breakdown!

  • @Sparksnorthern
    @Sparksnorthern 4 місяці тому +2

    Man, you absolutely nailed this. The build up, "altered" scale-like build up line and then your accenting on the verse was perfect. Great analysis and playing.

    • @BassFreedom
      @BassFreedom  4 місяці тому

      Glad you enjoyed it! I appreciate it!

  • @jacopasto3204
    @jacopasto3204 9 місяців тому +188

    before Neil died, he sais in an interview that he was about to start learning to improvise cause as he said he s a compositional drummer. he always wrote exactly what he was gonna play in every song. imagine if he had the time to combine the two,....... R:I:P:

    • @1-eye-willy
      @1-eye-willy 9 місяців тому +10

      neil wrote all the parts for Rush's music, even the lyrics. he truly was a composer

    • @JoeSmith-fu9yx
      @JoeSmith-fu9yx 9 місяців тому +17

      Alex and Geddy wrote most not all but most of the music especially early on, but Neil had input on the drum sections obviously. @@1-eye-willy

    • @jn3Storyteller
      @jn3Storyteller 9 місяців тому +5

      Neil improvised a bit in his solos. He's talked about how no two nights were the same.

    • @tmacmi9095
      @tmacmi9095 9 місяців тому +9

      @@1-eye-willy Neil wrote the lyrics to almost every song, Geddy and Alex added the music

    • @jamiemcconnell2120
      @jamiemcconnell2120 9 місяців тому +12

      He continued to literally take lessons from drummers in different genres even at the height of Rush’s popularity. He was always adding to his skills.

  • @paulfitzpatrick6566
    @paulfitzpatrick6566 9 місяців тому +14

    Saw Rush first time on the Permanent Waves tour in London my home town. Then at Wembley Arena for the Moving Pictures. They played the entirety of 2112 & my favourite instrumental La Villa Strangiato which Alex Lifeson is quoted as saying used to be their most difficult track to play live due to it’s changing timings.
    Awesome band, for 3 guys, defo the best rock bassist & rock drummer of the modernity. Lifeson is superb also.

    • @charliedillon1400
      @charliedillon1400 2 місяці тому

      La Villa Strangiato is, in my opinion, the definitive Rush song. I saw them on three tours in the 80s and saw them perform it. Mind blown, mouth agape.

    • @paulfitzpatrick6566
      @paulfitzpatrick6566 2 місяці тому

      @ Alex Lifeson is quoted as saying it’s the hardest track to play live for its many timing changes. I saw Rush twice in London on the PW & Moving Pictures tours, they played it live both occasions. An excellent musical composition & performance. 🎸😀

  • @Jaageful
    @Jaageful 8 місяців тому +7

    I had to play intensively many hours a day for a couple of years before i was able to play like Geddy Lee. His style is just so powerful. But after my fingers got use to ripping of bass strings and crushing stones, it was so rewarding to play Rush style of bass lines.

  • @Reebert02
    @Reebert02 5 місяців тому +1

    I had the good fortune of seeing them on that tour. No matter how awesome you think they look in the video, being there in person was infinitely better! I was literally shaking walking back to the car and I felt like I got hit by a truck.

  • @Brian_B505
    @Brian_B505 9 місяців тому +6

    Awesome breakdown and playing man. And the tempo on this performance is merciless...

  • @frankbernat740
    @frankbernat740 6 днів тому

    That was the bass line that got me into most bands. Being able to play the song fully when I was in High School was a thing. Im talking ‘82-86. And even when I graduated. For many years

  • @mrbass1310
    @mrbass1310 9 місяців тому +8

    The Mighty Rush - the gift that keeps on giving.

    • @trajan6927
      @trajan6927 8 місяців тому

      The Mighty Who and The Mighty Rush are two of the greatest bands, and certainly live they are the best. Cheers mate!

  • @apospichal
    @apospichal 9 місяців тому +11

    greatest group of friends ever.

    • @polar315
      @polar315 7 місяців тому +1

      Yup. 3 brothers by choice. Can’t imagine losing your best friend and coworker at the same time. The dinner they had was an amazing snippet into the relationship they had. Don’t think there was a band that had the same level of closeness.

    • @PaulFormentos
      @PaulFormentos Місяць тому

      Dunno, Pink floyd were fond of each other and never fought

  • @TubeDube6
    @TubeDube6 9 місяців тому +4

    I can't even watch anything about Rush without getting tears in my eyes. I really miss them.

    • @awoods1663
      @awoods1663 Місяць тому

      i'm not cryin, YOU'RE cryin!

  • @profdave2861
    @profdave2861 9 місяців тому +5

    Great review - and unlike most music reviewers on Youtbube that do the ridiculous “oooh ahhh wow” commentary but couldn’t play or sing a note of it, I greatly appreciate the fact that you understand and explain the music theory - and can also play Geddy Lee’s amazing bass lines! Well done, sir. I’m a guitar player, but have shared this with my son, who’s a pretty decent bass player and I know will appreciate your analysis and playing skills.
    Just one final comment… while your review is mainly focused on Geddy with kudos to Alex, I can’t let this comment go without recognizing the incredible percussion of the late, great Neil Peart - aka “the Professor”. These three Canadian boys made incredible music that will continue to be appreciated internationally for decades to come. 🇨🇦

    • @BassFreedom
      @BassFreedom  9 місяців тому +2

      Thanks a lot for saying that! I try very hard to both do the research AND be able to play it well. Means a lot!😊

  • @osculus
    @osculus 9 місяців тому +3

    This is the most informative, fascinating, and coherent breakdown or reaction video I've ever seen. You know your subject backward and forward, and you have a high level of speaking energy that projects enthusiasm gives excellent clarity and immediacy to your exposition. Now I goota go see more of your channel!

    • @BassFreedom
      @BassFreedom  9 місяців тому +2

      Thanks so much! Comments like this is the reason all the work put into creating these videos are worth it. More to come! Appreciate you! 🤘

    • @JNT1968
      @JNT1968 9 місяців тому +1

      @@BassFreedom I love your enthusiasm for this song and Geddy's playing. I see from the comments that this was some people's introduction to Rush. Thank you for that. The world must hear these three virtuosos.

  • @DeftilSteve
    @DeftilSteve 6 місяців тому +1

    you really showed the reverence for the band that they deserve and I appreciate that greatly.

  • @kurtvanluven9351
    @kurtvanluven9351 8 місяців тому +6

    Rush supplied the best value in musical entertainment in my lifetime. Imagine they fed our ears, our minds, and even moved our hearts. I cannot even express the gratitude i have for them being who they are. I may have stayed an extra year with my first girlfriend. We were not meant to be BUT we loved to hang out and listen to Rush and smoke a doob! Great times.

  • @jayzter73
    @jayzter73 2 місяці тому

    What’s not love about them? I have always loved picking apart their tracks. They are all so insanely awesome!! RIP Professor.

  • @andyharman3022
    @andyharman3022 6 місяців тому +3

    Thanks, Andrew. You make me proud to be a Rush fan all over again.

  • @waynejohnstone3685
    @waynejohnstone3685 9 місяців тому +6

    I was in a restaurant in Toronto this January and Geddy was there. Without being creepy it was cool to watch him interact with his table. Seems like a great guy.

  • @rpinarreta
    @rpinarreta 9 місяців тому +20

    Glad you clarified that it's Y.Y.Zead as RUSH is a Canadian band. It's Y.Y.Zee as translated by our U.S. compatriots.

    • @rapid13
      @rapid13 9 місяців тому +5

      Take off, hoser.

    • @Fissi0nChips
      @Fissi0nChips 9 місяців тому +5

      Zed

    • @Snowdog070
      @Snowdog070 9 місяців тому +3

      Zed rules !!. There is only one country I know where its pronounced Zee. Pilots and ham radio operators (even in the US) mostly say Zed (Zulu) to differentiate from Cee and Dee and Eee etc.

    • @rapid13
      @rapid13 9 місяців тому +1

      @@Snowdog070 Using the phonetic alphabet isn’t the same thing as just saying the letters. Pilots, ham, police, and military use words in place of just the letter names. You don’t say “ped” or “ed” or “ded” so why say “zed?” B, C, D, E, G, P and Z all have the same sound but you only differentiate one of them?

    • @Snowdog070
      @Snowdog070 9 місяців тому

      Last point taken but being an amateur radio operator myself I can say that even US operators mostly say Zed with Zulu being the worldwide phonetic expression for Z sometimes called NATO Phonetics, ie. Alpha, Bravo, Charlie etc. It is what it is. Only one country says Zee.@@rapid13

  • @fredyoung3518
    @fredyoung3518 3 місяці тому +2

    First saw them in London, Ontario in July, 1974. They opened for Kiss. Neil hadn’t joined yet, but I knew right then they were destined for greatness.

    • @malinwj1167
      @malinwj1167 Місяць тому

      Wow I would have given just about anything to see that show. Kiss was my first favorite and I still love them, but Rush soon took over that spot. To have ever seen them together like that, would be a dream come true

  • @mikeprival2651
    @mikeprival2651 9 місяців тому +4

    I was 16 when this album came out. After I bought it, and heard this song I was dumbfounded as to how 3 guys could possibly produce such a huge sound. Needless to say, I was the best air drummer on the block (Tom sawyer)... lol...... Cheers to RUSH. One of the greatest bands of all time!!! Thanks for being in our lives

    • @markparris3890
      @markparris3890 9 місяців тому

      I air-drummed to Tom Sawyer and Red Barchetta 12” single when at Uni in the early 80s - just loved Rush. Still do 🇨🇦🇫🇴

  • @StevieVman1
    @StevieVman1 9 місяців тому +2

    I was fortunate enough to see them 3 times.
    I was 13. Saw them at the mid hudson civic center in poughkeepsie NY during the permanent waves tour.
    It's a pretty.
    Small place and they seemed to have all of their equipment from bigger shows there.
    Totally one of the biggest impacts im my life at that point.
    Easily one of the loudest concerts I have ever been to.
    My ears were ringing for days.
    But totally loved it

  • @allengray5748
    @allengray5748 9 місяців тому +4

    You earned my like!! Since I got nailed by the Delta virus in 2021 I think I played my Bass twice. Kinda got a spark but it's bed time. Great Job Andrew! May have to check out your channel! Peace 🕊️☮️♾️😎

  • @jim-f4n
    @jim-f4n 5 місяців тому +1

    I wish more people would come to appreciate talent… that these 3 displayed.

  • @ahlija
    @ahlija 6 місяців тому +4

    I MISS THEM SO MUCH!!!! 😢😢

  • @stevewalters6403
    @stevewalters6403 5 днів тому

    I have been working on the bass line(s) recently. An entire master class could be designed around this tune. Amazing work by Rush.

  • @tezzaboy1351
    @tezzaboy1351 9 місяців тому +4

    Great analysis. Never got to see them live in Australia, we missed out, but have enjoyed all their records. Thank goodness for videos and youtube.

    • @zwastiunburzy3688
      @zwastiunburzy3688 9 місяців тому +1

      Know how you feel. I'm so glad that I heard them the first time in '76, but I also feel ripped off that they never toured our great country. RIP Neil Peart.

    • @ALF782
      @ALF782 8 місяців тому +2

      Been a big fan since 1978 and I remember Molly Meldrum mentioned the album Moving Pictures on Countdown in 1981 and talked of a possible tour which sadly never happened.

  • @paulholmes672
    @paulholmes672 5 місяців тому +1

    Took my wife to her first and only chance at seeing Rush in 2005, I'd been a fan since 75 while listening to them out of a jukebox on the Flight line (Khorat Air Base) in SouthEast Asia. Tom Sawyer with the jungle all around, and at night is sureal!
    Took her about 6 to 7 beats before she was hooked, with almost 2 hours of constant grinning. They were in Dallas during Neil's last couple of years but Ticketmaster's scalping scheme was running wild and we couldn't go. Miss them!!

  • @Absurdist-or7tf
    @Absurdist-or7tf 9 місяців тому +3

    Big Rush fan here in the upper Midwest. Geddy Lee could have easily been the most popular musician in Minnesota for quite a few years. Huge Rush fan base there. Every time I see Geddy I still recall those days in the eighties.

  • @earlharvey7659
    @earlharvey7659 Місяць тому

    I loved learning how to play this over 40 years ago; I still love playing it! It took a lot of hours to get it right, but I loved it anyway!

  • @johnlascala5355
    @johnlascala5355 8 місяців тому +3

    Well done! Great breakdown of this song and baseline! Incredible song!

  • @lanthaniated1
    @lanthaniated1 6 місяців тому +1

    Every time I pick up a guitar I play a Rush riff, they were the best. Thanks for celebrating the Ged & YYZ

  • @chistophereggers8105
    @chistophereggers8105 9 місяців тому +3

    I always liked Rush but having this reviewed by a musician really drives home how very special these three guys were.

  • @blakebass1
    @blakebass1 7 місяців тому +3

    Fantastic video! Great analysis and transcriptions with examples to see/hear. I am currently reading Geddy's book "My Effin' Life" while listening to him read it to me on Audible. It is fascinating, and I have a whole new level of appreciation for Geddy upon learning about his background and early career stories. You're right about YYZ, it IS hard to play! Your video here is superb, nice work!

  • @dennisleblanc4404
    @dennisleblanc4404 7 місяців тому +2

    This is so great. As a bassist, YYZ is such a blast!

  • @dleasman
    @dleasman 9 місяців тому +3

    The bass he is playing was his Wall bass, which he started playing around the Power Windows era through Presto and Roll the Bones, after shelving the Steinberger, but he eventually went home to the Fender Jazz bass that he bought at a pawn shop some time before Moving pictures when he first started playing it. I don't even think he knows which tracks on Moving Pictures are the Rick 4001 or the Jazz. Also, the guitar Alex is playing is a Hentor. Like Ged, Alex first recorded with a Fender (that he borrowed from a friend) on Moving pictures, beginning to move away from his Gibson ES-355. He played starts, then the Hentors, and then a brief time with PRS after they re-formed on Vapor Trails, but went back to Gibson, with customized Les Paul models, many with a piezo saddles in a floating Floyd, later to become the Lifeson model, with Life-o-sound (2 outputs, one being the piezos). Personally, I never cared for the Wall or Hentors instruments, but what was even worse was Lifeson's endorsement of GK (Gallon Kruger) amps (yuck) which were used after the Marshall amps, but before he discovered Hughes & Kettner, which he played live until the end, only adding his signature Lerxt botique amp, not unlike the HiWatt amps he started with back in the 70s up through 2112. Dong get me started on all of the effects they used over time, key boards, wireless systems or Palmer speaker simulators, when Alex finally went D.I. But I will say that for the final 20 years of rush, he used Yamaha processors and Fractal AxFX, where Geddy ended with SansAmp and an Orange going through a Palmer. But don't discount the BadAss bridges on most of his bases as a contributor to his amazing tone. (Ok... That was long! Sorry)

  • @SpiffyJack
    @SpiffyJack Місяць тому

    Badass explanation of YYZ absolutely the best I've heard yet. I've got a little story, I don't think it'll bore you but 40 years ago or so when this song was coming out I had a buddy in high school and for days on end he would use the music room at the high school and he would put his heart and soul into his base. I remember walking by the open door day after day, and there was Chris W. struggling with all these riffs and I found it intriguing back then how somebody could literally put so much of themselves into just a part of a song musically speaking and not be satisfied until he got it perfect. The way you just explain this video and this song literally ties it all together on why he was so adamant in making sure that he could nail this song and all the riffs perfectly. What a blast from the past, you surfaced a long lost memory that was well worth remembering. Rush is and will always be badass. RIP Neil Peart. And over the years it gets down to passion You just have to have passion for what you do to do it right just like I twist the throttle my buddy plays the bass passion makes it happen. I'm not a magician but I have the audio efficionado ear to know what sounds good and I've been a fan of Rush for a long time and now I'm a fan of yours, thanks a lot for the video, well done.

  • @dmack1827
    @dmack1827 9 місяців тому +4

    Just to tidy up your intro, Alex is a licensed pilot and was inspired when listening to the Morse code identifier for the Toronto nav radio. Morse code for YYZ is (dash dot dash dash, dash do dash dash, dash dash dot dot. Thus the 10/8 time required to imitate it.

  • @cliftonjarvis8010
    @cliftonjarvis8010 6 місяців тому +1

    For me being there at their concerts a couple times in the 70s was an experience that’s for damn sure 😮

  • @santonucci
    @santonucci 8 місяців тому +5

    The amazing thing about Rush is that the three of them went out on stage live and did this shit in front of thousands of fans and NEVER screwed it up. If it was different than the record, it was because they decided to do it that way just for us.

    • @ischmidt
      @ischmidt 2 місяці тому

      Yup. Saw them 9 times and only time it didn't sound exactly like the record it was either intentional or equipment failure.

  • @MrCitizen14
    @MrCitizen14 5 місяців тому +1

    RUSH made me the music nerd I am today. - Great breakdown! You have a great presence and delivery.

  • @SuperJohnnyO
    @SuperJohnnyO 2 місяці тому +14

    If you love Rush, raise your hand. If you don't love Rush, raise your standards. 🤓

  • @ggates2500
    @ggates2500 2 місяці тому

    Was never an enormous Rush fan but I grew up listening to Les & it was always obvious where his tone and attack came from.

  • @Cake_Doge
    @Cake_Doge 9 місяців тому +4

    I have been practicing this song for the past 2 weeks since I met a guitarist to actually play this with, good to have this and for the intro, learning the morse code for Y and Z actually helped a lot, would recommend

    • @CD_Character
      @CD_Character 9 місяців тому +1

      “dash dot dash dash, dash dot dash dash, dash dash dot dot”

  • @StevenL_999
    @StevenL_999 5 місяців тому +2

    Great performance and great breakdown. Thank you!

  • @Dobie_ByTor
    @Dobie_ByTor 9 місяців тому +4

    At 6:26 even Neil looks up at Alex and is like “Damn!”
    The untold story here is the Neil and Geddy laid down this rhythm section and Alex came in not only “keeping up with it” but just slaying the rhythm, bass lines and beautiful dynamic solos that are as inspiring as the rhythm section. Rush is a trinity. I use”is” on purpose. They still live on…

  • @morgancasey5783
    @morgancasey5783 6 місяців тому

    I like that you talked about what made each section good. You highlighted many different elements to being a good bassist. I especially loved that you noted how Geddy gave space to Alex and complemented his part rather than challenge it. That’s arguably the most important part of being a bassist. Great vid. Geddy’s second solo in this has my heart

  • @Luv2tickt
    @Luv2tickt 9 місяців тому +5

    Two things, you mentioned Dirk's hair, he called that his Racoon Hair phase. The second and more important, glad that you picked this particular video. I've always loved the Wal Bass years. I've been playing bass for over 38 years now and have YET to lay my hands on one, much less see one in person, aside from the concerts of course. I love the tone to them, and was somewhat successful in getting my Ric to come close, never did with my Fender Jazz. But the Wal's have such a distinctive sound, much like the Ric's, which I suppose why Geddy went for it back then. Well done on the breakdown! Thanks.

  • @shawnmcandrew6923
    @shawnmcandrew6923 2 місяці тому

    This was the hold your fire tour saw this live at the meadowlands in NJ. Its an absolute wall of sound from 3 people. Its nuts. Geddy Neal and Alex did actual solos during the show and thy went absolutely mental.

  • @jasonflaherty8364
    @jasonflaherty8364 9 місяців тому +3

    I'm in. Great coverage of a great song. Subbed.

  • @markm4554
    @markm4554 9 місяців тому +1

    I've been trying to get those solos for ages - this was the best instructional vid I've yet come across (and I've been looking!). Thank you!

    • @BassFreedom
      @BassFreedom  9 місяців тому +1

      Awesome Mark! Thanks man! 🤘

  • @HeftyHalfling
    @HeftyHalfling 7 місяців тому +6

    This performance is significantly faster than the album version. 😮

  • @jacobchristopherson6018
    @jacobchristopherson6018 8 місяців тому +1

    This video randomly popped up in my feed and I'm glad it did. Excellent breakdown, and excellent playing.

  • @bohs1984
    @bohs1984 9 місяців тому +3

    Had to play this at a backyard party way back long ago. Other guys were MONSTER musicians and I kinda suck on bass. Pulled it off with a pick and a LOT of ghost notes. People just kinda fill in the ghost notes with their imagination when they know the song so well. Had a few people tell me afterward how great it was. I laughed my ass off knowing that I only really played about 1 in 3 notes of the actual song.

  • @or9481
    @or9481 9 місяців тому +1

    Thank you. Loved the breakdown and your playing along to show the lines. Very cool.

  • @Agordon-vw9lx
    @Agordon-vw9lx 9 місяців тому +8

    If it separates the good from the great only by playing, try to imagine creating it. They're superhumans.

  • @Neilson-w2s
    @Neilson-w2s Місяць тому +2

    That Wal bass tone, oh damn. Age 19 in 1987 I forged my mom's signature to get a bank loan for £750 and ordered a black Wal. I still have it; my Wal and my Ricky, we'll never part ways.

  • @2ToyBoys
    @2ToyBoys 9 місяців тому +6

    I love that Wal bass sound!

    • @davidreichert9392
      @davidreichert9392 8 місяців тому

      It's actually played on a Rickey

    • @ischmidt
      @ischmidt 2 місяці тому

      @@davidreichert9392 On this live version it was the Wal. But Geddy sounds like Geddy regardless of what he's playing.

  • @rodneyadderton1077
    @rodneyadderton1077 9 місяців тому +2

    This was a great video man. I liked and subscribed.

  • @thesean3194
    @thesean3194 9 місяців тому +54

    It’s a Wal bass to answer your question at the beginning.

    • @bretwalker2295
      @bretwalker2295 9 місяців тому +5

      Literally came to the comment section to say this LOL 2:27

    • @roonetune839
      @roonetune839 9 місяців тому

      true dat. Cheers!@@bretwalker2295

    • @j_freed
      @j_freed 9 місяців тому +1

      Yeah, this lad wasn't even born when "hold your fire" album came out. That was the era.

    • @epickett63
      @epickett63 9 місяців тому +1

      @@bretwalker2295 Yep, me too.

  • @chrisc765
    @chrisc765 8 місяців тому +2

    i also love how getty gets the nose involved to move the mic stand. The nose is awesome

  • @Andy_Byrne
    @Andy_Byrne 9 місяців тому +4

    I was at that Birmingham gig in 1988!! 😊

  • @madmaxfzz
    @madmaxfzz 6 місяців тому

    I was fortunate to be able to see Rush twice in the mid-eighties. They were SO incredible live... it was stunning. You walk out of the venue almost stunned and you have to switch gears to get back to the normal world. I'm so glad I was able to experience that.

    • @BassFreedom
      @BassFreedom  6 місяців тому

      I am fortunate enough to have see them, too! I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many men (there were not a lot of females at this show lol) air drum in my life before hahaha. Glad you got to see them!🤘

  • @andrewfellingham8388
    @andrewfellingham8388 8 місяців тому +44

    If Rush isn't your favorite band, then they most likely are your favorite band's favorite band...