When you listen to Alex's solo you can feel the loneliness. It shows just how in tune with each other they were as musicians and friends. Professor I miss you and thank you for your teachings.
Something people rarely understand about the chorus: "Those who wish to seem," refers to people who want fame for fame's sake. "Those who wish to be," refers to highly motivated people who are passionate about what they do. Neil is identifying as someone who wants to "be," and saying that someone like that needs to try their best to avoid the trappings of fame and focus on what matters most to them: being the best they can at what they love doing.
And that is how he lived his life. When not lyric writing, recording or touring, he lived his life not the life of a ‘rock star’. I remember from the time I discovered Rush, with their second album release, the three of them lived a private life. There are many bands who were very different, who were ON all the time. Didn’t separate their onstage life from real life....those bands generally didn’t last very long. Some died young, some burnt out. But Rush was born to do what they did. I’ve listened to them for so many years that their lyrics were kind of burned into my mind and damn if they didn’t have some of the deepest lyrics of all the music that I consider the soundtrack of my life!! Sorry to write so much...when I meant to only thank you for that great comment! TY Annie in TN
@@blondelebanese9922 also, in every city, Niel would get lost finding used bookstores and the others would sometimes have to find him. he is admittedly reclusive and introverted. his lyrics come from always being in his head, thinking, reading and expanding.
RUSH: Hey we're just three Canadian nerds. ALSO RUSH: Oh but we're going to gobsmack you with our lyrics. ALSO ALSO RUSH: Sorry, Oh hey, super Sorry but we're also going to be the most technical musicians anyone has ever heard. EVER HEARD. Cheers mate!
They are very technical, and that doesn't appeal to everyone, but, it was more about pushing their own limits and skills that the technical skils developed. I'm glad it did. Rarely do you hear music so... damn complicated & precise! Yet still pleasant, melodic and pleasing. I bloody love it 😃😃
@@krytonsbeast That's what made me fall in love with their music back when I was a teenager. It was so complex, yet so accessible, on so many different levels.
I can’t think of 3 more talented musicians. Neil Peart, the drummer was a true poet & philosopher. R.I.P. Check out Subdivisions. I grew up in that world & there was no place for me. Neil speaks the truth.
@@melissayost4888 I'd say Yes (prior to Owner of a Lonely Heart) was just the British precursor to Rush. Group absolute virtuosos, walking the line between catchy and progressive with sounds bigger than you'd expect. Yes and Roundabout are killer albums.
@@Julianlesk I love Yes and they are great in their own way, no need for comparisons. That said, I think what Rush achieved around Permanent Waves - Moving Pictures is unique and has never been done, before or after them. Condensing the complexity and all out energy of progressive rock into melodic, "shorter" catchy and beautifully written and arranged songs is what puts them in the Olympus of music.
This is way your the best reaction videos. You caught the line. "I can pretend a stranger is a long awaited friend" That is Neil Peart and the way he felt.. Thank you for keeping the music alive
In case anyone did not know, limelight refers to an old type of stage light where a flame was applied to a stone that contained lime (calcium carbonate). The stone would then glow brightly. The light was then redirected with mirrors and/or a lens. Very bright indeed.
Says the person that knows nothing.Real bone-fide know-it-all's appreciate other know-it-all's. Hanging around them gives us a chance to improve our game.
Uhhhm is anyyone forgetting 2112? So much as thier middle finger to the music industry for trying to compromise thier integrity? "Spirit of Radio" kind of explauns it a few years later. One of their best songs to hear live BTW.
This song is written by Neil and it's my favorite Rush song and my second being Freewill. Thank You Neil R.I.P. And Thank You RUSH as a whole for bringing forth an amazing new sound to the Music Scene and giving ALL of US a taste of Canadian Gobsmack!
Musical perfection in just under 4 minutes. With most tracks, you can think I wish they'd done this or that a bit differently. Limelight? You have to love and admire every second of it. Lifeson puts so much soul into his guitar.
That was Neil Peart talking. “I can’t pretend a stranger is a long awaited friend. Very reserved, humble, introverted and private up to the end of his life. A very influential human being that although millions didn’t know him, they miss him as if they did. Rest in Paradise Neil.
Rush, one of the best bands ever, underrated for its complexity and people who likes comercial stuff, but for many of us, a big part of our life's soundtrack.....cheers dude!!
3 guys~ They don't sit down and " write" a song. Neil isn't just the drummer; he is the lyricist ~ they all write pieces of music and then see what lyrics fit with the music AND Geddy`s voice. I love watching you experiencing Rush I just wish you could have seen them live! THEY WERE MAGICAL 💖
Rush. The legendary power trio, unleashing their stunning songwriting and musicianship. This is one of their best-known radio hits, and just an iconic, emotional track from their 80's era. Play that guitar solo back a few times. You don't hear guitar work like that anymore... thank you so much for this one!!
Since you're learning more about Rush, you've probably learned that their drummer, Neil, wrote all of their lyrics. He is famously introverted and uncomfortable with fame. This is very much Neil expressing his feelings about living a life "on the lighted stage." It's a personal favorite.
I was in the Army at the time this album dropped, back then WAS NOT LIKE TODAY, a guy in my company had this cassette mailed to him and he had the only ghetto blaster, all these young Canadian boys (maybe 30 of us) dirty, smelly, tired, faces showing exhaustion from the days training would go to this platoons tent and we would just sit there all silent, cigarettes dangling from mouth and we would just shut the fuck up and sit and bob our heads and pretend to sing along. The power of music back then to instantly transform 18 year old boys who spent the day screaming, yelling and learning how to kill people to subdued, inward looking beings of thought was so special. The power of RUSH!
From Rush The Trees. There is unrest in the forest oh, there is sadness with the trees. For the maples lost their professor, And the Oaks brought to their knees. R i p Neil Peart the best drummer the world has ever known. The trees are indeed sad
Love your reactions especially when it comes to Rush. It puts a smile on my face when someone new discovers Rush and understands the band musically and lyrically. You’ve done every song from Moving Pictures so you might as well finish it off by reacting to The Camera Eye. Keep up the good work....
I'm 58 years old and have been a fan of theirs since 1976 these guys and their art that they created have helped me through some of.my most difficult times, probably saved my life , Thank you for the reaction, I love to see people discover Rush for the first time. Peace out ✌️
Rush is THE BEST BAND in the universe. The lyrics, musicianship, friendship, live shows, connection to their fans. Everything. They are the band of the misfits, thinkers, and spirituals
One of the greatest of Rush songs. Geddy’s bass work is so outstanding. The bass in this song carries you along like you are on a magic carpet, through the highs and the lows of struggling with the limelight.
One of my favorite ever of all time quotes comes from this song. "I can't pretend a stranger is a long awaited friend." The philosophy of Rush is so profound! I also used another line from this song in an English Literature class in college and after I turned it in my prof asked me if I was a big fan of Shakespeare because I used the quote in a unique and slightly different way (he said). The "All the worlds indeed a stage, we are merely players" line and I laughed and told him no, but I am very well versed in the philosophy of Rush and I know the band's lyricist/drummer certainly digs Shakespeare! Thanks for the reaction to a song I've known by heart for decades now!
All the world’s a stage, And all the men and women merely players; They have their exits and their entrances; And one man in his time plays many parts, --Shakepeare "As You Like It" Act II Scene VII
@@metheus108 yep. that quote. I remember being asked about the version by Rush I was using by my professor and telling him with glee about the band Rush and the philosophical insights it could bring. I think he was surprised a bit, but also thankful I was getting around to finding out about Shakespeare and where that quote I loved really came from.
One of my favorite Rush songs!! The drum rolls at the end are OVER THE TOP GREAT. Neil Peart is SUPER.💜 I didn't appreciate him until I saw him in concert. 🤩👍💕💕
I think the bottom line is, for a lot of us, we miss this band and, after seeing them perform upteen times since ‘82, for me, I wish they could still play. Thanks brother, for carrying the torch and bringing some entertainment to their craft. For without which, I might no longer remember the true genius that they bring...
I got to see them three times before they retired. One of Neil's lyrics says it best: "Better still to watch it die than never to have known it" - 'Losing It' from the Signals album - another great song! A little different than their "normal" stuff but still a fantastic listen.
Then he goes on to quote Shakespeare ("As You Like It," Act II, Scene VII)... "All the world's a stage, And all the men and women merely players; They have their exits and their entrances, And one man in his time plays many parts, His acts being seven ages."
What else can be said about this song that hasn't been said in the last 35 years? It's perfection in progressive rock. It's Lifeson's best solo. It's drumming par excellence. Geddy Lee sings, plays an anazing bass part and keyboards with his feet...enuff said! In a thousand years it will still be perfect.
And you just heard the loneliest "feeling" guitar solo ever. It's got a very sad feel to it. I love watching you learn about Rush. There will never be another band like them. Three MASTER musicians who actually liked each other and could make 40 years of music.
I think i's not just the great sounding tracks that are drawing people to old school. I think is because the music industry has almost killed the music with real talent and no auto-tune. Any-who, I hope this trend grows. Thanks dude for choosing Rush!
The guitar solo in this song would probably get my vote for the best solo of all time. It strikes me as being as close to perfection as one could ever hope to achieve.
Geddy Lee (bass/keys/vocals) talks about this in an interview. he says at first the band didn't embrace their celebrity and popularity, or found it difficult, because they were just doing what they loved and living their lives. But over the years they've gotten more appreciative and accepting of fans showing and telling how much the band means to them.
William Shakespeare - As You Like It "All the world's a stage, And all the men and women merely players; They have their exits and their entrances, And one man in his time plays many parts, His acts being seven ages." Rush - Limelight "All the Worlds indeed a stage and we are merely players Performers and portrayers Each another's audience Outside the gilded cage" Outstanding piece.
Seeing him with Geddy and Alex at dinner, you'd think Neil was one of the most extroverted people you could meet, but looks can be deceptive when a steady supply of wine is involved. :D
66 y/o Rush fan. So glad to see you get it! The 3 greatest musicians ever in the same group. BUT, what sets them apart is Neil Peart's (pronounced Pert) lyrics! DUDE, YOU WANT YOUR HEAD TO EXPLODE WITH LYRICS? ROLL THE BONES (LIVE)!
As usual, these are Neil Peart's lyrics. He's the one in the band who never liked the fame aspect, and is the introvert of the band as well who likes to keep to himself.
I'm not the kind of guy that gets emotional but when I see your reaction to songs especially when I know an awesome part or moment in a song is coming up, it is incredible watching your expression ...really gets me!
Absolutely. Provides the band's history, some insight into their lives & personalities, commentary from other artists, & much more. Highly recommended.
I love Rush, all of their music is indelibly written on my heart, but this song has been my favorite since the first time I listened to it! It played in my head throughout one of my best soccer games when I was only a junior in high school in 81...My love of Rush grew deeper with every album and I was crushed when I heard that Neil had passed. I've been listening to several of the books that he wrote and they are all amazing. He had such a way with words. So talented and he will be forever missed! Rest in Peace Professor!!
Rush is an example of what three incredibly talented musicians can do given the necessary support to practice songwriting and performance as a serious profession. Despite ignoring theatrics they succeeded anyway. We need a system today which will support musicians and help them reach their potential.
From the #classicalbum released on this day in 1981 #movingpictures #todayinmusichistory #musichistory #mandatorylisten #musthave #masterpiece #80srock #lestudio #terrybrown #rushhistory
I saw your brow raise when you heard NP on the kick. He was voted number one R&R drummer in the world for seven or eight years in a row. He put the work in and then he took a long cruise on his bike... They’re back.
Just a RUSH every time I listen to any of their songs. Vintage or New they always bring you through a journey with every song they produce and especially the lyrics that Neil Peart comes up with...Man. There is Music...and their is RUSH! Please my friend you need to do a reaction on "The Garden". Thanks for the reaction.
Man I love that you are enjoying Rush music with the lyrics, because it is a full package with them. I'm a huge Rush fan, so I appreciate you recognizing them!
This song was less about people horning in on Rush fame and fortune as it is with Neil Peart's extreme discomfort with fame and how he shies away from the limelight when fans come up, even for something as benign as expressing admiration for their craft or gratitude for the music. He says he feels awkward and doesn't know how to react, and finds it difficult to be gracious and gregarious (I can't pretend a stranger is a long awaited friend.) Geddy and Alex were much more comfortable being the public face during meet and greet type events and Neil avoided them like the plague. He also knows it is his problem and feels... Not bad, but regretful that he's not capable of being that guy and this song was not only an explanation but kind of an apology to fans.
Bro if you listen to their first album “RUSH” And then listen to the second album “FLY BY NIGHT” you will really see how important it was they found Neil Peart the Guinness... Rush probably would have never stamped the world like they did.. I love the band and the professor is my top drummer. John Blackwell number two... R. I.P. To both my heroes and thank you for listening to them
Yeah, people can like Rush or not but no one can deny that they were possibly the most technically gifted rock band that still had groove and feeling. Not an easy road
The reason why I spared no thought to Neal Peart's memory after he died is because I thought, "Hey, I can't pretend a stranger is a long-awaited friend. If that's how he wants it with me then that's how I'll have it with him" then I shrugged and went about my day. But seriously R.I.P haha
Most people think this song refers to the experience of fame. And, it does on one level. But, on an entirely different plane it speaks to the spiritual experience of being a human being and the evolution of consciousness.
What did you think of how the song sounds? One of their most composed and concise songs ever. Alex Lifeson’s guitar solo is one of his all time favorites. I think he terms it “elastic” if memory serves. Awesome song and reaction.
Limelight and Subdivisions are a couple of my favorite Rush songs. Your reaction to Limelight reminded me of more perils of being famous in the Billy Squier song "Everybody Wants You". I'd love you to react to that song sometime.
This is my favorite RUSH song. As a person who has been involved in music and music production most of my life, it speaks to so many things that I have experienced. To say it speaks to me personally is something of an understatement. Great video Sir..!
Yes, this is about Neil’s unbelievable shyness to the point of him seeming as very anti-social. He never understood the fascination of stardom. He just wanted his own space and his own place in it. Sadly, this was reinforced in August 10, 1997 when his only child at the time, 19 year old daughter was killed in a single car accident. 10 months later his common-law wife died of cancer. Neil writes with emotion and these events brought out a ton...
Jamal, welcome to RUSH. It's too bad you just missed seeing them live. I noted your comment in the Xanadu video, when Alex glances over to Geddy like "yo we're killing it bro" and you mentioned how great it must feel to work your whole life and get to that point... that was only 7 years into their 40 year career, and as you are learning, they are like a fine wine, getting better and better. May I recommend a few I think you might enjoy, both lyrically and instrumentally. Nate has been doing great showing you RUSH, and, as I imagine he can confirm, it's hard to pick only one or two songs, and which order, but I'll give it a try. Hemispheres - listen to the studio version w/ the lyrics so you can understand as much as possible. Is another long one, so get your popcorn. Countdown - a cool song. Headlong Flight - from their latest album(like the hopeful way I put that?) and they still rock so much. Clockwork Angels - also from new album. I could go on for days, but we'll start there and see how you like those. I enjoy your reactions, and it's cool when you break it down and talk about it more, like you started to in Trees. It is about the class separation, and it still applies today, just like Subdivisions. PS a little Christmas Gift ua-cam.com/video/sI5VuBzo-Qc/v-deo.html Enjoy, Bobby
"I can't pretend a stranger is a long-awaited friend..."
When you listen to Alex's solo you can feel the loneliness. It shows just how in tune with each other they were as musicians and friends. Professor I miss you and thank you for your teachings.
Something people rarely understand about the chorus: "Those who wish to seem," refers to people who want fame for fame's sake. "Those who wish to be," refers to highly motivated people who are passionate about what they do. Neil is identifying as someone who wants to "be," and saying that someone like that needs to try their best to avoid the trappings of fame and focus on what matters most to them: being the best they can at what they love doing.
Very important point, glad you made it, you did better job I could have done.
And that is how he lived his life. When not lyric writing, recording or touring, he lived his life not the life of a ‘rock star’. I remember from the time I discovered Rush, with their second album release, the three of them lived a private life. There are many bands who were very different, who were ON all the time. Didn’t separate their onstage life from real life....those bands generally didn’t last very long. Some died young, some burnt out. But Rush was born to do what they did. I’ve listened to them for so many years that their lyrics were kind of burned into my mind and damn if they didn’t have some of the deepest lyrics of all the music that I consider the soundtrack of my life!! Sorry to write so much...when I meant to only thank you for that great comment! TY
Annie in TN
That's a huge void to fill on UA-cam...someone who provides the back story for lyrics....that was interesting ...thx for sharing.
@@blondelebanese9922 also, in every city, Niel would get lost finding used bookstores and the others would sometimes have to find him. he is admittedly reclusive and introverted. his lyrics come from always being in his head, thinking, reading and expanding.
The real relation; the underlying theme.
RUSH: Hey we're just three Canadian nerds.
ALSO RUSH: Oh but we're going to gobsmack you with our lyrics.
ALSO ALSO RUSH: Sorry, Oh hey, super Sorry but we're also going to be the most technical musicians anyone has ever heard. EVER HEARD. Cheers mate!
They are very technical, and that doesn't appeal to everyone, but, it was more about pushing their own limits and skills that the technical skils developed. I'm glad it did. Rarely do you hear music so... damn complicated & precise! Yet still pleasant, melodic and pleasing. I bloody love it 😃😃
@@krytonsbeast That's what made me fall in love with their music back when I was a teenager. It was so complex, yet so accessible, on so many different levels.
I can’t think of 3 more talented musicians. Neil Peart, the drummer was a true poet & philosopher. R.I.P. Check out Subdivisions. I grew up in that world & there was no place for me. Neil speaks the truth.
@@melissayost4888 I'd say Yes (prior to Owner of a Lonely Heart) was just the British precursor to Rush. Group absolute virtuosos, walking the line between catchy and progressive with sounds bigger than you'd expect. Yes and Roundabout are killer albums.
@@Julianlesk I love Yes and they are great in their own way, no need for comparisons. That said, I think what Rush achieved around Permanent Waves - Moving Pictures is unique and has never been done, before or after them. Condensing the complexity and all out energy of progressive rock into melodic, "shorter" catchy and beautifully written and arranged songs is what puts them in the Olympus of music.
R.I.P Neil Peart! Best Damn Drummer Ever! We love ya Buddy! RUSH!! ✌
I can't pretend a stranger is a long awaited friend.
A perfect and classic Neil Peart lyric.
This is way your the best reaction videos. You caught the line. "I can pretend a stranger is a long awaited friend" That is Neil Peart and the way he felt.. Thank you for keeping the music alive
In case anyone did not know, limelight refers to an old type of stage light where a flame was applied to a stone that contained lime (calcium carbonate). The stone would then glow brightly. The light was then redirected with mirrors and/or a lens. Very bright indeed.
Also the main reason for asbestos curtains. Not just a gag in Bugs Bunny cartoons.
Nerd
@@nwmonk3105 Worse than nerd; engineer.
Nobody likes a " know-it-all".
Says the person that knows nothing.Real bone-fide know-it-all's appreciate other know-it-all's. Hanging around them gives us a chance to improve our game.
One of the best guitar solos ever!
This song is obviously about dealing with the limelight, but ironically this album launched them into it
Yeah I think by the time Permanent Waves hit they were already cranking....
Moving Pictures just sent them into the stratosphere
@kleptobyte no moving pictures was their mainstream success. working man put them on the radar. Theres a difference
if anyone is seriously going to disagree that moving pictures was their most commercially successful album then you need to operate within reality
Uhhhm is anyyone forgetting 2112? So much as thier middle finger to the music industry for trying to compromise thier integrity?
"Spirit of Radio" kind of explauns it a few years later. One of their best songs to hear live BTW.
@kleptobyte The Spirit of Radio. 👍
RIP Neil. Greatest drummer/lyricist of all time. Where I get my name.
This song is written by Neil and it's my favorite Rush song and my second being Freewill. Thank You Neil R.I.P. And Thank You RUSH as a whole for bringing forth an amazing new sound to the Music Scene and giving ALL of US a taste of Canadian Gobsmack!
Their first hit was "working man." Neil Peart came along....wrote lyrics like a sage and played drums like an alien.
We said farewell to a King today, god speed Mr. Peart.
I still cry about it.
@@michellerobin5461 Me too. Gone too soon, Professor.
This is one of Alex Lifeson's favorites solos.He said on a interview.
Cool. I was just thinking how it was one of mine.
He captured the image of loneliness and melancholy the lyrics portrayed. One of his best solos ever.
Musical perfection in just under 4 minutes. With most tracks, you can think I wish they'd done this or that a bit differently. Limelight? You have to love and admire every second of it. Lifeson puts so much soul into his guitar.
Alex shreds the fuck out of this song. The whole band does. RIP Neal 🙏
Mine too. He has many though.
That was Neil Peart talking. “I can’t pretend a stranger is a long awaited friend. Very reserved, humble, introverted and private up to the end of his life. A very influential human being that although millions didn’t know him, they miss him as if they did. Rest in Paradise Neil.
Rush The Spirit of Radio
👍🏾 ua-cam.com/play/PLAY_hpVvjQqCKTjctp_iSiofsS0qJyyPB.html
@@jamelakajamal Neil Peart of Rush died of brain cancer Tuesday, Jan 7, 2020
RIP Neil Peart!!! One of the best ever!!!!!
Rush, one of the best bands ever, underrated for its complexity and people who likes comercial stuff, but for many of us, a big part of our life's soundtrack.....cheers dude!!
3 guys~ They don't sit down and " write" a song. Neil isn't just the drummer; he is the lyricist ~ they all write pieces of music and then see what lyrics fit with the music AND Geddy`s voice. I love watching you experiencing Rush I just wish you could have seen them live! THEY WERE MAGICAL 💖
Rush. The legendary power trio, unleashing their stunning songwriting and musicianship. This is one of their best-known radio hits, and just an iconic, emotional track from their 80's era. Play that guitar solo back a few times. You don't hear guitar work like that anymore... thank you so much for this one!!
"backstabbers" "(What they do!) They smile in your face, all the time they wanna take your place..the backstabbers!" - The O'Jays 1972
I think there's some TLC in there too...from Crazy Sexy Cool.
I was 18 when this came out. I'm 57 now and I love it just as much. I will be listening to this in my 80's if I live that long.
Since you're learning more about Rush, you've probably learned that their drummer, Neil, wrote all of their lyrics. He is famously introverted and uncomfortable with fame. This is very much Neil expressing his feelings about living a life "on the lighted stage." It's a personal favorite.
I was in the Army at the time this album dropped, back then WAS NOT LIKE TODAY, a guy in my company had this cassette mailed to him and he had the only ghetto blaster, all these young Canadian boys (maybe 30 of us) dirty, smelly, tired, faces showing exhaustion from the days training would go to this platoons tent and we would just sit there all silent, cigarettes dangling from mouth and we would just shut the fuck up and sit and bob our heads and pretend to sing along. The power of music back then to instantly transform 18 year old boys who spent the day screaming, yelling and learning how to kill people to subdued, inward looking beings of thought was so special. The power of RUSH!
One of my favorites from Rush ! That instrumental is sublime 😵💫
Nothing better than watching a good man listen to great music for the first time!!!
When guitar solos actually placed another roll to the story, the song.
From Rush The Trees.
There is unrest in the forest oh, there is sadness with the trees.
For the maples lost their professor,
And the Oaks brought to their knees.
R i p Neil Peart the best drummer the world has ever known. The trees are indeed sad
Love your reactions especially when it comes to Rush. It puts a smile on my face when someone new discovers Rush and understands the band musically and lyrically. You’ve done every song from Moving Pictures so you might as well finish it off by reacting to The Camera Eye. Keep up the good work....
The Camera Eye is my favorite Rush song. Scratch that. It's my favorite song period.
I'm 58 years old and have been a fan of theirs since 1976 these guys and their art that they created have helped me through some of.my most difficult times, probably saved my life , Thank you for the reaction, I love to see people discover Rush for the first time. Peace out ✌️
Btw in case you didn’t know, the line “All the world’s a stage and we are merely players.” Is from Shakespeare.
I love this verse!!
i KNEW THAT, LOVE SHAKESPEARE AND RUSH!
Rush is THE BEST BAND in the universe. The lyrics, musicianship, friendship, live shows, connection to their fans. Everything. They are the band of the misfits, thinkers, and spirituals
I love when a “ brother “ loves rock music, it all started in the Delta playing the blues, it comes full circle... music is universal .
One of the greatest of Rush songs. Geddy’s bass work is so outstanding. The bass in this song carries you along like you are on a magic carpet, through the highs and the lows of struggling with the limelight.
One of my favorite ever of all time quotes comes from this song. "I can't pretend a stranger is a long awaited friend." The philosophy of Rush is so profound! I also used another line from this song in an English Literature class in college and after I turned it in my prof asked me if I was a big fan of Shakespeare because I used the quote in a unique and slightly different way (he said). The "All the worlds indeed a stage, we are merely players" line and I laughed and told him no, but I am very well versed in the philosophy of Rush and I know the band's lyricist/drummer certainly digs Shakespeare! Thanks for the reaction to a song I've known by heart for decades now!
All the world’s a stage,
And all the men and women merely players;
They have their exits and their entrances;
And one man in his time plays many parts,
--Shakepeare "As You Like It" Act II Scene VII
@@metheus108 yep. that quote. I remember being asked about the version by Rush I was using by my professor and telling him with glee about the band Rush and the philosophical insights it could bring. I think he was surprised a bit, but also thankful I was getting around to finding out about Shakespeare and where that quote I loved really came from.
One of my favorite Rush songs!! The drum rolls at the end are OVER THE TOP GREAT. Neil Peart is SUPER.💜 I didn't appreciate him until I saw him in concert. 🤩👍💕💕
I think the bottom line is, for a lot of us, we miss this band and, after seeing them perform upteen times since ‘82, for me, I wish they could still play. Thanks brother, for carrying the torch and bringing some entertainment to their craft. For without which, I might no longer remember the true genius that they bring...
I got to see them three times before they retired. One of Neil's lyrics says it best: "Better still to watch it die than never to have known it" - 'Losing It' from the Signals album - another great song! A little different than their "normal" stuff but still a fantastic listen.
Growing up on top 40 I'd never heard of RUSH, but that line about a stranger and a long awaited friend is absolute genius.
Then he goes on to quote Shakespeare ("As You Like It," Act II, Scene VII)...
"All the world's a stage,
And all the men and women merely players;
They have their exits and their entrances,
And one man in his time plays many parts,
His acts being seven ages."
What else can be said about this song that hasn't been said in the last 35 years? It's perfection in progressive rock. It's Lifeson's best solo. It's drumming par excellence. Geddy Lee sings, plays an anazing bass part and keyboards with his feet...enuff said! In a thousand years it will still be perfect.
That solo gets me every time.
And you just heard the loneliest "feeling" guitar solo ever. It's got a very sad feel to it. I love watching you learn about Rush. There will never be another band like them. Three MASTER musicians who actually liked each other and could make 40 years of music.
I think i's not just the great sounding tracks that are drawing people to old school. I think is because the music industry has almost killed the music with real talent and no auto-tune. Any-who, I hope this trend grows. Thanks dude for choosing Rush!
The guitar solo in this song would probably get my vote for the best solo of all time. It strikes me as being as close to perfection as one could ever hope to achieve.
Long live RUSH brother jamel..awesomeness brotherhood of rush
Geddy Lee (bass/keys/vocals) talks about this in an interview. he says at first the band didn't embrace their celebrity and popularity, or found it difficult, because they were just doing what they loved and living their lives. But over the years they've gotten more appreciative and accepting of fans showing and telling how much the band means to them.
This whole album is a must listen. Enjoying the journey!
This song evokes such happy memories for me. Being a kid, no real responsibilities and sleeping with my stereo on.
How Geddy plays the bass off Alex's guitar solo with Neil playing drums in the back as good as anyone has in Rock music is straight up ear candy.
"Living on a lighted stage
Approaches the unreal
For those who think and feel
In touch with some reality
Beyond the gilded cage"
R.I.P NEIL PEART
William Shakespeare - As You Like It
"All the world's a stage,
And all the men and women merely players;
They have their exits and their entrances,
And one man in his time plays many parts,
His acts being seven ages."
Rush - Limelight
"All the Worlds indeed a stage
and we are merely players
Performers and portrayers
Each another's audience
Outside the gilded cage"
Outstanding piece.
Neil Peart, the drummer, wrote the lyrics. He's the reclusive member of the band. This is definitely his perspective of fame and overall attention.
Seeing him with Geddy and Alex at dinner, you'd think Neil was one of the most extroverted people you could meet, but looks can be deceptive when a steady supply of wine is involved. :D
This has been my favorite song since about high school. I love all their work but this song always stood out to me as something really special.
66 y/o Rush fan. So glad to see you get it! The 3 greatest musicians ever in the same group. BUT, what sets them apart is Neil Peart's (pronounced Pert) lyrics! DUDE, YOU WANT YOUR HEAD TO EXPLODE WITH LYRICS? ROLL THE BONES (LIVE)!
The lyrics "All the world's [indeed] a stage..." are from Shakespeare's play "As You Like It"
I feel that Shakespeare himself would have loved this reworking of his line. "All the world's indeed a stage."
As usual, these are Neil Peart's lyrics. He's the one in the band who never liked the fame aspect, and is the introvert of the band as well who likes to keep to himself.
yeah he'd much rather have the open road and his motorcycle
i love that you're fascinated by rush
I'm not the kind of guy that gets emotional but when I see your reaction to songs especially when I know an awesome part or moment in a song is coming up, it is incredible watching your expression ...really gets me!
You should check out the Rush documentary "Beyond The Lighted Stage".
^^ THIS THIS THIS. Excellent documentary.
Yes! 100% agree. I think it’s streaming on Amazon or Hulu...well worth seeking out. Amazing document of the band’s history.
Absolutely. Provides the band's history, some insight into their lives & personalities, commentary from other artists, & much more. Highly recommended.
fabbrunette I’d really like to see him react to that.
@@susanmaggiora4800 Yes!
I love Rush, all of their music is indelibly written on my heart, but this song has been my favorite since the first time I listened to it! It played in my head throughout one of my best soccer games when I was only a junior in high school in 81...My love of Rush grew deeper with every album and I was crushed when I heard that Neil had passed. I've been listening to several of the books that he wrote and they are all amazing. He had such a way with words. So talented and he will be forever missed! Rest in Peace Professor!!
Rush mystic rhythms, you’ll love it, just like all their other songs
Mystic Rhythms is in my top five favs from RUSH .
Jamel has the right kind of brain to get Neil's lyrics. The thinking person's band! Miss You Neil and the rest of the boys!
Rush is an example of what three incredibly talented musicians can do given the necessary support to practice songwriting and performance as a serious profession. Despite ignoring theatrics they succeeded anyway. We need a system today which will support musicians and help them reach their potential.
From the #classicalbum released on this day in 1981 #movingpictures #todayinmusichistory #musichistory #mandatorylisten #musthave #masterpiece #80srock #lestudio #terrybrown #rushhistory
I saw your brow raise when you heard NP on the kick. He was voted number one R&R drummer in the world for seven or eight years in a row. He put the work in and then he took a long cruise on his bike... They’re back.
Just a RUSH every time I listen to any of their songs. Vintage or New they always bring you through a journey with every song they produce and especially the lyrics that Neil Peart comes up with...Man. There is Music...and their is RUSH! Please my friend you need to do a reaction on "The Garden". Thanks for the reaction.
Man I love that you are enjoying Rush music with the lyrics, because it is a full package with them. I'm a huge Rush fan, so I appreciate you recognizing them!
This song was less about people horning in on Rush fame and fortune as it is with Neil Peart's extreme discomfort with fame and how he shies away from the limelight when fans come up, even for something as benign as expressing admiration for their craft or gratitude for the music. He says he feels awkward and doesn't know how to react, and finds it difficult to be gracious and gregarious (I can't pretend a stranger is a long awaited friend.)
Geddy and Alex were much more comfortable being the public face during meet and greet type events and Neil avoided them like the plague.
He also knows it is his problem and feels... Not bad, but regretful that he's not capable of being that guy and this song was not only an explanation but kind of an apology to fans.
Bro if you listen to their first album “RUSH”
And then listen to the second album
“FLY BY NIGHT” you will really see how important it was they found Neil Peart the Guinness... Rush probably would have never stamped the world like they did.. I love the band and the professor is my top drummer. John Blackwell number two... R. I.P. To both my heroes and thank you for listening to them
Instrumental breakdown: drum fill, guitar solo and a killer bass line all at once. So many eargasms all at once.
One of the best songs EVER!
Sadly the drummer Neil Peart past away from brain cancer..r.i.p Neil..you were a legend and a king
R.I.P., Neil, the greatest drummer & lyricist who ever lived
Could be Alex Lifeson''s greatest guitar solo.
Rush rules!! That’s what musicianship is all about!
Yeah, people can like Rush or not but no one can deny that they were possibly the most technically gifted rock band that still had groove and feeling. Not an easy road
Dean Smith exactly... I’m bummed about Neil Peart... ughhhhhhh
Alex Lifson underrated guitarist of all time.
Limelight is a solid banger from Rush.
The reason why I spared no thought to Neal Peart's memory after he died is because I thought, "Hey, I can't pretend a stranger is a long-awaited friend. If that's how he wants it with me then that's how I'll have it with him" then I shrugged and went about my day. But seriously R.I.P haha
Most people think this song refers to the experience of fame. And, it does on one level. But, on an entirely different plane it speaks to the spiritual experience of being a human being and the evolution of consciousness.
What did you think of how the song sounds? One of their most composed and concise songs ever. Alex Lifeson’s guitar solo is one of his all time favorites. I think he terms it “elastic” if memory serves. Awesome song and reaction.
It is. I really appreciate it more now than I used to. It’s beautifully crafted. He has so many fantastic solos though.
always liked the general happy feel to this song.....another sunshine-drive favorite from the eighties..................many love, much props
Limelight and Subdivisions are a couple of my favorite Rush songs. Your reaction to Limelight reminded me of more perils of being famous in the Billy Squier song "Everybody Wants You". I'd love you to react to that song sometime.
One of my fave Rush songs - great to jump around to and a concert favourite - played immaculately (of course)
This has always been one of my favorite Rush songs. Great choice!
This album gives testament to the fact there will never be more skilled players / writers / dreamers in one band equal to RUSH.....RIP Neil
This is my favorite RUSH song. As a person who has been involved in music and music production most of my life, it speaks to so many things that I have experienced. To say it speaks to me personally is something of an understatement. Great video Sir..!
My man Jamal keep those Rush songs coming... unfortunately we lost one of the greatest drummers ever,well in least of my lifetime
I grew up with a couple guys and all of us loved Rush. One was into the older stuff, one the newer, and I loved it all.
First person I've seen read the words! It's a must with Rush...
Yes, this is about Neil’s unbelievable shyness to the point of him seeming as very anti-social. He never understood the fascination of stardom. He just wanted his own space and his own place in it. Sadly, this was reinforced in August 10, 1997 when his only child at the time, 19 year old daughter was killed in a single car accident. 10 months later his common-law wife died of cancer. Neil writes with emotion and these events brought out a ton...
Yep
That guitar riff...one of my alltime favorites.
ANOTHER 80`S CLASSIC...Released: February 28, 1981
Such a beautiful song. R.I.P. Neil. True respect.
I still think this is my favorite Rush tune. I LOVE this song. The composition. The journey it takes you on. Just pure magic.
You are getting better dude. I have watched rush my whole life. In concert twice. The best Canadian band.
Jamal, welcome to RUSH. It's too bad you just missed seeing them live. I noted your comment in the Xanadu video, when Alex glances over to Geddy like "yo we're killing it bro" and you mentioned how great it must feel to work your whole life and get to that point... that was only 7 years into their 40 year career, and as you are learning, they are like a fine wine, getting better and better. May I recommend a few I think you might enjoy, both lyrically and instrumentally. Nate has been doing great showing you RUSH, and, as I imagine he can confirm, it's hard to pick only one or two songs, and which order, but I'll give it a try.
Hemispheres - listen to the studio version w/ the lyrics so you can understand as much as possible. Is another long one, so get your popcorn.
Countdown - a cool song.
Headlong Flight - from their latest album(like the hopeful way I put that?) and they still rock so much.
Clockwork Angels - also from new album.
I could go on for days, but we'll start there and see how you like those.
I enjoy your reactions, and it's cool when you break it down and talk about it more, like you started to in Trees. It is about the class separation, and it still applies today, just like Subdivisions.
PS a little Christmas Gift ua-cam.com/video/sI5VuBzo-Qc/v-deo.html
Enjoy,
Bobby
If you want to experience the most amazing lyrics, Vital Signs, the most unbelievably underplayed, underrated Rush song ever!!!
My all time favorite song from RUSH, Thank You so much for posting..LOVE IT!!! LOL..
Best lyrics from any hard rock band ever!