YOU ASKED FOR IT! Psychological Analysis of Rush - Limelight
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 16 ต.ค. 2024
- I wasn't ready, but man did I love this ride!!!
Enjoy my deep dive review of @rush and their hit "limelight". We'll be talking about the musical composition and the psychology behind the lyrics.
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Original Song:
• Rush - Limelight
Dear lady, you have just stumbled upon one of the largest and most gratifying rabbit holes there is. Each band member is a virtuoso musician recognized as some of the best of their craft. One of the best three piece bands ever assembled...😎🎏
A lot of times during the guitar solo, the bass and drums will drop back in the mix and let it stand. Not with Rush. The solo is time for all three to shine.
Agreed. My comment was similar!
(You beat me to it 😅)
Yes, each of them can go solo yet they’re stil sonically tied together. Try Xanadu
No, they are the best!
Yup, what he said.
Us Rush fans truly miss Neil very much ....R.I.P. :(
It still hurts. He was a genius that brought so much fun to my teenage life.
Afterimage still tears me up.
Strange to say this because I did not know or meet him personally, but the death of Neil Peart was also a deep personal loss for me, both because I am a drummer and held his work in high esteem AND because I was a philosophy major and Peart was a profound thinker and incessant reader who wrote deep and inspiring lyrics on a diversity of topics. If you listen to his interviews, what comes through is not a beast who happened to beat on drums for a living, but his gentle and compassionate nature, his keen and voracious intellect, and his curiosity about the human condition.
Every. Single. Day. I never met him, but man I miss the him so much and the world hasn't been the same since he left us.
even though he caused me to be tear gassed the man was a genius
That’s probably the greatest drummer ever to sit behind a kit….. RIP Professor
Don't leave out he was the lyricist for the band. To bring depth like that in both word and music, few could compare.
Neil Peart was your favourite drummer's favourite drummer. They asked Eddie Van Halen what it was like to be considered the best rock guitar player. He responded: " Don't ask me, ask Alex Lifeson. "
YEP, THE GREAT NEIL PEART..
As great of a person as drummer. Very grounded and humble.
"Probably"? ... DEFINITELY!
“I feel like I just got smarter.” Rush has that effect on you. This is the ultimate band for musicians.
I used to listen to Rush the day before (or the day of) exams when I was in college: I swear they were the secret to my college success!! 😅😁
"That drummer is nuts" - understatement of the century. I'm always happy when people can discover Rush for the first time as it truly can be life changing
I chuckled when she spit that out...gave her instant credibility though
Came here to same the same....understatement of the century.
Right! That is Neil F'ing Peart! and not even his best drum track
"I feel like I just got smarter." Best response to Rush ever.
Most epiphanies are indelible learning experiences and all Rush fans definitely became smarter by listening to them. One belongs to a rarified collection of discerning individuals who, by virtue of accepting Rush, are awarded acceptance in a more cerebral idiom of complex musical awareness. Feeling that she just became smarter is incredibly astute!
Yes, loved this first reaction comment. Those who have the capacity will get it, those who don't, really will never get it.
I caught that too and smiled brightly. Made me think of South Park’s Matt in the documentary.
Agreed.. and true
@@TonySchoppI love 2112 the movement Discovery. When I first heard that I cried and cried and cried. I determined that was how I wanted to live my life, in the movement of Discovery ! ! ! A thinking person’s band.
"Are you hearing what's happening here?" yea that's a typical first reaction to Rush!
True but Ive played Rush to a number of girlfriends growing up in the late 70 and 80's etc and I never saw the face that Rosalie gave us, as she got it and loved it all in the first 30 secs. I cant wait till she hears the top 20 of Rush line up as we in the Rush army get to relive those early days of experiencing Rush with someone who gets it. TY...Cheers. 😎
My reaction to her question was more like, "Yes, dear. We've heard what's going on for 47 years. Welcome to the Rush fanbase."😉
The other typical first reaction to Rush is "It's only three guys making this music? How can that be?"
@@chavt66 Ah, you said what I was going to say 🤣
Love how she comments on the bass during the guitar solo. That's Rush. Always something going on behind the scenes.
Neil Peart (GOAT percussionist & lyricist) "Your favorite drummer's favorite drummer." He used this song to express his discomfort to being famous and being recognized. I believe that he hoped that we (as fans) would understand his introversion and need to maintain his "space." He was not intending to be rude, or aloof, he just couldn't stand to be fawned over.
Geddy Lee (GOAT bassist, vocals, pedals & keyboards) is instantly recognizable with his unique timbre which he chose because "our instruments are playing everywhere else." He's probably the biggest multi-tasker of the group.
Alex Lifeson (GOAT guitars, pedals) is highly underrated. His solos are not just an expression of skill, they're melodic. He can make the guitar speak to the soul and express limitless emotion.
HUGE DEEP rabbit hole here ... over 40 years of material. These guys could simultaneously solo and not step on each other ... really. Huge psychological and social commentary in almost every song. Prepare to be inundated with suggestions, but don't worry, you can't go wrong.
Neil is the G.O.A.T.!!!
have you read his books?
A more cynical interpretation might be: "Ok, fans, you know all that music we did in the '70s? We were pandering to you the whole time. We're not doing that anymore. Get out of your Mother's basement and 'fake it til you make it' like we've had to do for the last decade!"
I can't hear Rush and not appreciate them, but I also hear strong political manifesto vibes from the lyrics of this era. It just occurred to me that it might be fun to hear someone recite these lyrics as slam poetry.
@spencerbookman2523 some of Neal's lyrics were influenced by Ayn Rand
What an incredibly accurate description of RUSH you nailed it! one other point I would mention. they set out to form a rock band as 3 humble Canadian boys and after finding incredible fame and fortune they remained 3 humble Canadian boys
"I can't pretend a stranger is a long-awaited friend." What a lyric!
Neil referring to the endless, worshipping fans.
"That drummer is nuts." Ma'am, respectfully, that drummer is "The Professor" Neil Peart, and he was the greatest drummer of all time. R.I.P.
And a brilliant lyric writer.
Was nuts ..he's dead now.
@@lloyd6017oh thank you for that
The Professor nickname was based on Neil's appearance, as per, The Professor from Gilligan's Island.
@@JohnnyMegabyteCanadaPlus he can twist time so effortlessly, shifting between the different time signatures to the point that he will use 3 time signatures within 5 bars.They way he does it is almost subconsciously, where a lot of bands have a bar of silence to switch signatures. He literally gained recognition for his timing, time signatures progressions, and ability to play and add in fills seamlessly.
"I think this just made me smarter". What a great analysis of Rush! Every Rush song needs to be listened to 5 times to truly appreciate the talent. An overall listen, a lyric listen, and a listen focusing on each of the 3 musicians.
right? LIstening to Rush raises my IQ.
Every single Rush lyric is thoughtful and insightful.... Love her first take.... Can't wait for more of these reactions!
My wife and I were just saying this exact same sentiments on how to properly listen to RUSH.
Rush fan for 46 years. More mine blowing songs. Natural Science. instrumental La Villa Strangiato. Jacob's Ladder.
@@BrendaNelson-p1y Natural Science has to be an all time favorite of mine. As great as the song is it's probably more that it takes me back to one special time and place listening to it with my best friend. It wasn't the first time hearing it but just hanging with my friend that day as it blared out the stereo driving down a back road. (Here's to you Bri , miss ya Bro)
This band was my brothers favorite band. He could talk for hours about Rush. He took me to 5 Rush concerts. He passed from cancer months before Rush was inducted into the Hall of Fame. And I’m pretty sure he’s talking Neil Pearts ear off in heaven. I always feel close to my bro when I hear Rush and if I close my eyes I can see him rocking out.
❤
Sorry for your loss, but I love the image of your bro chatting with Neil.
RIP Brother! Rush is forever!
Condonences.
🙏🙏🙏🙏
Neil was a self taught intellectual giant and true renaissance man, defying the rock drummer stereotype. You could hear it instantly in any interview he did. One of the best read people you can imagine. A true role model and inspiration. I miss him dearly.
I miss him too, my friend. I cried that horrible day in January of 2020. My hero was gone, and my heroes were not going to make amazing music ever again. R.I.P Neil.
2020 was a double cry year for me, and I never cry. But the started with Neil’s passing, then my favorite Rock guitarist Edward Van Halen went In October.
@@michaelwilson9449I was at work when I got the news. I’m a custodian, I had to find an empty classroom to hide in and cry for a while.
He's also the author of 15 books
Well said.
Everybody gets an upgrade when they listen to Rush for the first time.
Firmware update, rebooting...
"That drummer..." 😂
Just the greatest of all time.
That's why the drummer was honored by the US Army Concert band in their cover of Time Stand Sill.
I grew up listening to Rush
There was a time when long and complex songs were Appreciated
Perhaps what goes around comes around is true
We love and appreciate Ren and his songs are not short
The drummer isn't nuts. He's the GOAT.
😉
Totally. Neil Peart is a legend. Canadas national treasure.
@@seanfraser9162 RIP ! GOAT
The Professor…
Tbh Bonzo is GOAT, the Professor is NO 2
@@stephencoleclough7988 Valid.
Limelight is basically Neil Peart's letter to FANS that while he enjoys the fame - he doesn't enjoy what fame means in terms of trying to have a private life. He is basically a SHY GUY. The more successful RUSH became - the more your freedom grows smaller..
Neil was similar to Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits, who stated that he enjoyed the success but not necessarily the fame - and they are not the same.
One of my favorite quotes of Neil Peart was, "I didn't want to be famous, I just wanted to be GOOD."
All these years of being a rush fan, this song STILL gives me chills. It’s utter perfection.
"I feel like I just got smarter!"
The best, and most fitting comment I've ever heard someone say after listening to Rush for the first time.
Never gets old watching the youth be blown away by... good music.
"I feel like I just got smarter." That's the best description I've heard to a first time listen to Rush. They are my all-time favorite band, and in many ways I am who I am because of them, and especially the drummer Neil Peart. I play drums because of him, and I too am smareter because of him. You'll be inundated with details about this amazing group of musicians by the Rush Army, so I'll leave it there....welcome to RUSH!!!! PLEASE DO MORE!!!!
The Drummer Neil Peart was and is considered to beone of the greatest Rock Drummers in history. With that said, Neil was extremely shy as a person. So he had this internal battle going on in his life.
Yup, he said in an interview that he often had fans approach him, professed to know all about him, had read all kinds of things and were talking to him as if they were friends. And from his perspective, he knows nothing about these people and just wanted to be left alone. The line "I can't pretend a stranger is a long awaited friend" says it all.
There are many great drummers. But they didn't called him the Professor for no reason.
Neil said he never wanted to be famous, he just wanted to be good
I first heard this song over 40 years ago and its still stuns me how briliant it is - you could do a whole channel on jst listening to and analysing Rush songs .... your comment 'I feel like I just got smarter' is probably one of the best comments ever, welcome to Rush !!!
The drummer is called the professor. He writes all lyrics. Geddy sings, plays bass and keys, Alex the guitarist holds rhythm and lead parts together and creates chord voicings with melodies that fit perfectly.
They also do some amazing work with these foot pedals
Pretty much every RUSH song can be described like this: put three of the greatest multi-instrumental musicians of all time in the same room. Have them all play virtuouso-level "solo" parts simultaneously, in perfect unison. Make the drummer an acclaimed philisopher-poet. Give them 40 years together, as best friends, to practice every part to absolute perfection, in tens of thousands of performances. They're top three, in any genre, of all time--and it's amazing to see people only now discovering them. The best musicians in the world revere this band, for a reason. Their once-upon-a-time cult following is growing exponentially. Some people don't get the lyrics, or they don't like Geddy's voice, or the compositions are too complex for their tastes, but nobody denies their talent. If you don't know this band, you're late to the party, but you're lucky--I would absolutely love to discover this band again for the first time. But that feeling of having your mind blown won't go away. 37 years in, I'm still amazed every time I hear them. If you're not already playing and recording another reaction, no matter what else you're doing, you're missing out.
They were ALL huge fans of the Who. Three virtuoso instrumentalists and one virtuoso singer, every one of them playing solos at the same time. Makes sense, right?
Neil Peart has been described as your favorite drummer's favorite drummer.
You left out being the most wonderful lifetime friends.
Yes . When they did 2112 they were 23 and 24 years old . Just let that sink in . lol . RUSH ON
In 1982, I heard "Subdivisions" on the radio. It was the first time I really felt a song, like it really got me, like someone out there understood my angsty teenage existance. I ran over to a friend's house to tell him about this new group (to me). He walked over to his dad's albums and put side A of 2112 on the turntable. And thus my 40+ year fascination began.
Yeah, if you're going to do an analysis, this is the one.
@@MacTopherI came into the comments section just to request it.
So glad @scottrule480 said it, I’ll do a separate spiel on it, as hopefully multiple comments might increase the likelihood of it being noticed and maybe considered.
Subdivisions is as prevalent today, as it was in ‘82. Definitely a song that will always be timeless
Rush - singlehandedly - manifested the potential that Rock always had and so rarely approached....
Rush truly stood alone, for over 40 years.
I can't agree that they stood alone, as there were several amazing bands during the Rush era, but Rush was definitely one of the best!
No Question…
Perseverance. Never give up. Follow your dreams. Wasn't easy in the early years.
Rock is like a many tentacled octopus with each one having its own uniqueness and appeal.. Rush had their own but they were just equal to the others as there is no right or wrong opinion about music. Its just what appeals to each person. I am a fan though.
@@lesheath6216 " The Rush Era " 1968- 2015.
Ya, there were a lot of great bands. But Rush was unique.
"I feel like I just got smarter but I can't put it into words exactly". That pretty much sums up Rush!
"If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice" another great lyric from Rush and Neil Peart! Fell in love with Rush in the 80s.
One quick note, The Drummer, Neil Peart, wrote 99% of the lyrics. He was a prolific reader and wrote at a very high level for a rock band. In fact, they have been described as the thinking mans band.
In this song you get the line... All the world's a stage, we are merely players, performers and portrayers. Each another's audience, beyindc the gilded cage.
This was in reference to Shakespeare's writing.
The famous line is taken from the “seven ages of man” speech. As the melancholic Jacques laments the impermanence of life, he notes that “All the world’s a stage/And all the men and women merely players”
This monologue compares the world with a stage in a theatre. Men and women are the actors or players on this stage. Actors playing roles have entrances and exits during a performance.
He then connects that with the Guilded Cage,
The Gilded Cage, derived from the phrase "a bird in a gilded cage" meaning living in a luxurious prison, may refer to: The Gilded Cage (1916 film).
While everyone wants to be in the limelight, once you get there, you discover everyone is acting in a role, the artist though, who is the subject of being in the Limelight, is actually trapped and can't get out.
Do Freewill as well. «If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice!»
💯%
I have "I will choose a path that's clear, I will choose Freewill" tattooed on my right forearm with the starman logo.
One of if not the best drummer in Rock. Got to see them five times and even got to take my son the last time I saw them.❤❤❤❤ R.I.P. Neil Peart❣️
I caught every San Antonio or Austin concert from 2002 onward ... and introduced all 3 of my sons to my favorite band (and brought the oldest and youngest to concerts) ... Sharing them with the next generation is a pure joy
@lauriivey7801 22 times, I was fortunate enough to see Rush. My first Rush concert Was November 10th. ''78, 9:24 Hemispheres tour. I remember it as though it were yesterday.
The rhythm you’re hearing are the time changes that was an innovation at the time. The time signatures 3/4, 4/4, 6/4, and 7/4.
I have watched a lot of reaction videos, and yours is one of the most refreshing takes on this awesome band.
Loved your insight on the 'call and response' aspect of the song, and good job catching the time changes.
From a psychological aspect, this was a great choice to analyze the lyrics!
Witch Hunt would be another one with a strong message...
“I feel like I just got smarter somehow”. You did. That’s why composers write challenging music. It’s a plot to make humans smarter.
Just an automatic reflex. It cant be helped.
Unfortunately, too much "music" is designed to do the exact opposite. And succeeds all too well.
3 men that sound like 9!!! That is what Rush was! The drummer, Neil Peart, was considered the GOAT of Rock. With his Jazz influences, listen to his drum solo from Frankfurt!!!!!!! There are a number of people that don't know them, or don't like them... because many of their songs were unconventional, more-than-4-minute songs that didn't make it to main stream radio... shame. Well, we Canadians are proud of Rush's accomplishments!
«I feel I just got smarter» - Exactly! The replay value of Rush is just off the charts!
When you see a girl hearing RUSH for the first time... and she IMMEDIATELY gets it.
I'm in love.
Only very intelligent women get Rush. And even then, something goes over their heads, like Cignus X-1 Book 2 / Hemispheres.
Wow. Misogynistic much?
Hope that didn’t go over your head.
"The BASS!" Yes! So fun to watch you listen for the first time, it made it new for me all over again! Brought tears to my eyes. Thank you!!
Welcome to the Rush family! This is one rabbit hole you’re going to love. Trust your audience to guide you on their songs. Plenty of great music and lyrics to react to. Can’t wait for the next one!
I've seen them live several times. Neil Peart is the GOAT on drums. Geddy Lee plays keyboards, bass pedals and sings at the same time, Alex Lifeson is one of the most underrated guitarists out there. They were truly something to see live!
Alex has musical notes named after him. I don't call that underrated. Eddie Van Halen said in an interview that " Alex Lifeson is the best guitar player he had ever seen or heard."
Underrated?
When you hear top 3; he doesn't come up often; Even top 5..... But he should
@@dentonatteberry6083 Perhaps "underappreciated" would be closer to the mark!
I wish we’d stop saying Alex is underrated. I just take joy, that I was fortunate enough to know how great he is.
@@milipro828Well said !
"All the world is a stage" is straight from Shakespeare's "As You Like It":
"All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players...".
It even reflects on Shakespeare's "Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow" from Macbeth:
"Life's but a walking shadow, a poor player that struts and frets his hour upon the stage, and then is heard no more."
One of the reasons Rush was never mainstream popular (beyond college/prog-rock circles) was that they were SMART. They dropped references like this that most people just don't pick up on. This song alone quotes (and riffs on) Shakespeare, the Bible and some Eastern traditions, and Rush's unique lived experience being in the limelight...
I always smile when I hear that line from “As You Like It” in “Linelight.” I used to do a lot of live theatre, and often I would put “Limelight” on the sound system before the house opened to the public - it got us all in the mood.
Then, later, when I performed onstage in the actual play, “As You Like It,” I always had Rush’s music in my head when Jacques spoke that line. (No, I didn’t have that role, but a good friend did.)
The way the time signatures shift to obey the rhythm of the lyrics is so satisfying and effortless. I’ve loved Rush since first hearing them back in 6th grade (now a frighteningly long time ago)!
Same.
These three men, although I've never met them, are like family to me. They rode with me through years and phases of my life, and they worked through changes in their lives as I was learning to do the same. Neil Peart taught me to play drums by proxy. Just by making the attempt to play like him, I learned quite a lot.
It's rare to see a band stay together for so long and remain such good friends. It certainly shows in the music they have created over the years.
Rest in peace, Neil.......
You are missed by many.....
I played bass in several garage bands while in middle school and high school and I remember going to the band director at my school and asking him what "syncopation" was in music because I was in a new band and the drummer was talking about bring more syncopation into our original songs. The band director at first tried to explain it to me and then he just said, "Go listen to a band called Rush and you will understand what syncopation is." This was 1978, I went to my local record store and bought their album called "Hemispheres" and not only did I understand what "syncopation" was, I became a lifetime fan of this band.
Their drummer was truly a one of a kind genius...he also wrote most of their lyrics, which were just as complex and introspective as his drumming. RIP, Mr.Peart.
A gilded cage... 'gilded' meaning very luxurious or clad in gold. Fame is like being held in a golden prison. On the one hand, it's very nice and comfortably appointed, but it's still a prison.
Such a great breakdown of this song that I have heard thousands of times.
Alex, Geddy and Neil! In my life I’ve spent countless hours Listening to the music and lyrics by Rush!
I'm an introvert as Neil was, and to me, the line "One must put up barriers to keep oneself intact" refers to how because our mental energy is more quickly drained than that of an extrovert, we need to set boundaries to protect it; the line "I can't pretend a stranger is a long awaited friend" speaks to how we prefer to spend our limited energy on meaningful, genuine relationships with a select group of close friends, colleagues and loved ones, rather than on superficial relationships with a bunch of strangers; and the chorus speaks to how extroverts mainly crave the spotlight and think they need to assume a different personna to attract a large group of followers and acquaintances, while we mainly prefer to work in the background, to follow our own internal motivators, and to seek authenticity in ourselves and others. Another Rush song that you may like is Mission from Hold Your Fire, which was performed live on their A Show Of Hands concert video, whose lyrics speak of the importance of having a passion and keeping it alive as Rush did for over 40 years. Cheers from Toronto!
🎤 🎹 🎸 🥁 🎸 🐐 🐐 🐐
Neil also once said something like: I didn’t set out to be famous, I set out to be good.
Here is what I find most interesting. As hesitant as Neil was to meet fans., I knew more about Neil and his life because he wrote so much . Both online and in his books. He chose the written word as his tool to communicate with the world and he was prolific . While I did have the chance to meet Neil once I made sure to be very low key and ask him about his writings and motorcycles and his travels rather than the band. He was very pleasant but rather shy. which is what I thought the encounter would be like. It doesnt change the enourmous respect and admiration I have for Neil, and this is my most favorite band , which I have seen in concert 90 times. They are the music of the soundtrack of my life.
This affected Neil even more when he lost his wife and daughter, a year apart. It put Rush in a hiatus for a few years. RIP Neil.
The drummer, Neil Peart, RIP, wrote the lyrics to 95% of their music. He was a somewhat introverted, well read, self educated, drummer of extreme capabilities! He wrote this in dealing with random fans he would meet!
Neil, aside from being one of the greatest drummers in history, did so many amazing things lyrically, that he made a legendary song about trees.
Eddie Van Halen was once ask by a rolling stone writer : how it felt to be the best guitare player out there , he answered " i dont know , ask Alex Lifeson from rush "
I think I’ve heard this EVH quote attributed to about a dozen guitarists.
@@jessasdadyes, this misquote has different guitarist swapped names for reactions . Both much different styles.
No one matches EVH's technical and innovative standards. Nothing sounded the same after him. Only Hendrix had a similar impact in the rock era.
Urban legend that has been said about every combination of guitarists. That said, Alex is certainly one of the top rock guitarists ever.
@@JClaus1221 Many matched and exceeded his technical standard. But yeah, his innovation and importance in rock history is unquestioned
Neil Peart is on everyone’s Mount Rushmore of drummers. Congratulations on picking up on it so quickly. Rewatch it, his first pass through the drums and you are “Ohhh that rhythmic switch there was dope” That’s why we love him.
I've heard this a hundred times. And I've heard reactors talk about their goosebumps a hundred times. But when that final fill extended onto the low toms, my God. Chills.
I think listening to Rush can actually make you smarter!
XXX
It does! 😊
This is such a deep rabbit hole you're at the entrance to... I hope you take the plunge! All three of them; absolute masters of their craft.
That's what I miss the most, music with meaningful poetry. This came out when I was 14. It was a different world.
Yes in deed. A different world. Today, machines has taken the place of humanity. Music is a mess because of this stupid race toward AI… but we have still Rush music to rock our minds ans souls.
First time listening to your channel. So glad to see you exploring Rush. Neil Peart, the drummer, is also the primary lyricist. He was known for his introversion, rarely stepping out from behind his drum kit on stage. But he was also known for his insightful lyrics. He explored the human condition and gave us an amazing catalog of songs. You should definitely look into their music more. Their post- 2000 music is, in my mind, overlooked far too often. I look forward to seeing more from you!
One can never go wrong with RUSH!!! Been listening to them for over 40 years now!! My big brother turned me on to rush. One of the best 3 piece bands if not the best!
Ditto, 40+ years
Please go down the Rush rabbit hole. You won't be disappointed!!!
You just opened a door to a Rush journey that you will remember forever!
Rush is 3 masters of their craft, plaing together for over 40 years. Making amazing music and thought-provoking lyrics.
Just having you spend some time with this song, just this one, out of the dozens of this caliber in their catalog, brought me to tears. Rush has been such a powerful, personal and private part of my life. Anyone who knows me, knows how i feel about Rush. But very precious few make the effort to have a dialogue about it. Especially such a rich and insightful dialogue. So thank you for your time and attention to this work which means so much to so many of us.
But best of all was to watch your emotions as the song developed, how engaged you were and delighted by it. The Underlying Theme is the rich satisfaction and visibility of our emotional lives Alex, Geddy and Neil gave us all.
I came to another interpretation of the real relation. Not just to each other in our social circles, but to the mystery of our lives and the experience of our universe. That sense of the unknown and unknowable that is somehow a refeshing source of comfort and energy. The music is a mystery. Why does it engage us so? What is going on there? Do we have to know to engage with it, to create it? Hell no. It is accessible to us all. Its an absolutely delightful mystery, a place to rest from the tyranny of certainty. We can lighten up. Thank goodness.
You listened to the WHOLE song before you interrupted. That is the right way to do it IMHO. I saw Rush live, 2 times in my life, and YES, you are now smarter. Good reaction vid. 😄
if you wnat to get your mind blown watch Rush Xanadu live 1981 Exir stage left
And make sure you have the epic lyrics displayed for the full experience.
This is the greatest live band performance on TH-cam!
You must see a live performance or two to see the greatness of this band. They always had fun. YYZ live in Rio is a must. It has no lyrics, yet you will see a zillion fans singing to the rhythm. 👍🎼 Nice reaction
Rush has been my favorite band since I was in high school, early 80s. I had the pleasure of cooking dinner for Geddy Lee, lead singer/bass, while I cooked in the reasturants. I got to meet him after he ate and he was the kindest, nicest and humble person you could imagine. He had no problem taking a few minutes to talk with me and autograph a menu which I still cherish. Truly a kind gentleman
"This is fun!"
Every minute of every Rush concert was very fun. That's why we go to see them.
I grew up listening to Rush because of my parents. I've loved them for years and years. They were my very first concert (Vapor Trails, will never forget). Ive been to almost every concert since, listened to almost every single song. Know most of the lyrics by heart. I've learned so much from the masterful lyrics. The 3 of them worked so so well together and have made some of the most complicated and beautiful music I've ever heard in my life. This song came on the radio in the surgery room the moment my child was pulled from my body and will always hold a special place in my heart forever because of that. Welcome to the Rush fan club, even if you don't keep doing videos, I hope you keep exploring this wonderful band and their music.
I also highly recommend watching the Rush in Rio video if you can.
“I can’t pretend a stranger is a long awaited friend.” Poetry.
Neil said that particular line was related to the interviews the band had to do at radio stations. Geddy and Alex were down for it, but the hosts kept trying to get Neil involved, and that made him incredibly uncomfortable - he never wanted to be famous, he just wanted to be good.
This is the line.
Damn, what I'd give to listen to RUSH for the first time, again...
Three incredibly talented musicians that work perfectly together. For 40 years...
Imagine hearing Rush for the first time again... oh my goodness. This is a massive step forward for you Rosalie. Seriously.
EVERYTHING that Rush did in studio, they did live. EVERYTHING. Rush is a deep, deep rabbit hole, this is... the tip of an iceberg of incredible OMG amazement! No exaggeration.
"The drums, the guitar, and bass are blowing my mind." Welcome to Rush!
Do I like Rush? Been my favourite band on the planet since 1983. They never toured my country one single time in almost half a century of existence, so I flew from Australia to North America three times just to see them. That's the kind of dedication and commitment this band inspired in its fans.....
Class of '83 alum here as well. Two guys I met in college introduced me to them in the fall of '83, and I was all in from the get-go. 🤘
I'm from their hometown of Toronto. I saw them 5 times they never disappointed
Great reaction Rosalie!! Glad you chose Limelight, if for any reason that it's one of my favourites! Rush is one of the finest collection of 3 musicians EVER! Not even a dose of hyperbole. Each are an absolute master of their respective instruments. The drummer/percussionist, Neil Peart (RIP) is also the principle lyricist - who always pens very poignant, introspective, thought provoking verse...and this song is a perfect example of that!
Neil was never comfortable with the 'limelight', disliked the adulation & pedestal he was put on by fans. He'd much rather read a book in solitude. This is a truthful view of his success.
Geddy Lee is a multi-tasking master of bass, keyboards and vocals, and Alex Lifeson, guitarist extraordinaire - master of atmospherics & shredding.
There is a deep well to discover of their music, should you wish to dive!
Subdivisions, Spirit Of Radio, 2112, The Enemy Within, Witch Hunt, Vital Signs, Natural Science, Red Sector A, Mystic Rhythms...all are essential...and are just a start!
Seen them 9 times live. They are in my top 5 all time! Cheers from Canada, eh!
I feel like I had a therapy season. I didn't expect this. Thank you.
If anyone wanted to know how much this band meant to they're fans, I'll share a story with you. I was lucky enough to see them 3 times. Once was at the Amphitheater in San Bernadino CA. The layout has half of the bowl is above ground, the other is below ground level. So from the upper (cheap seats) you can see the crowd leaving. That night they were above and beyond better than they're usual perfection would be an understatement. It was the first tour back from Neil's hiatus after the deaths of wife and daughter in the same year. After three encores, the house lights came up. half the crowd was in the other out. All of the sudden everyone stopped walking and spontaneously gave a five minute round of applause that didn't die down, it crescendoed to an unbelievable volume. I think it was as much for the show, as it was to acknowledge how much we all appreciate him sharing his music, especially if you knew how much he had no interest in being a celebrity.
These 3 guys created some of the most incredible soundscapes in rock history. Welcome to the Rush rabbit-hole.
You have no idea what you’ve got yourself into! Prepare to be overwhelmed by the Rush Army! You just opened the Pandora’s Box of music. Fortunately for you, it’s going to be an enjoyable rabbit hole. Enjoy! I’ll be interested to see more Rush reactions from you.
This is the tip of the iceberg there is so much more Rush you need to listen to they are 3 of the most talented musicians ever
I just have to tell you that watching you react to Rush video was extremely gratifying to my soul. Rush is one of my absolute all time favorite bands... I'm 56 years old and grew up listening to them in the 70s. And 80s , And watching you react to it for the first time Really touched my heart. Keep making these wonderful videos with awesome content!!!
Holy mole, your perspective on the lyrics and life itself, particularly how you described the facets of intimacy, were profound. I'm glad I discovered your channel
"Do you hear what is happening there?" Yeah, many of us have been hearing that for 40 years now.
Neil Peart -- your favorite drummer's favorite drummer.
Yay! Rush! Some really awesome tracks to hear. I'll assume "Tom Sawyer" has already been blasted your way. Neil's super fast wrist work on drums is unparalleled. Neil also really had a way with lyrics. Hope to see more Rush ere! Cheers, Rosilee!
One of my all times favorite bands. Their lyrics are very well thought out
Hi Rosalie!! I hope you read this! Discovered your reaction videos because of Ren. He's become one of my heroes. You are awesome, and I love what you have to say. So glad that you do what you do. It is truly inspiring work you do. You have great insight, and I'm also so glad you've discovered Rush! Rush has been my favorite band for 30 years (I'm 35). You picked a great first song to do a reaction to, and a great intro to the band. As a true and loyal fan of Rush, I find that most of their greatest songs aren't highlighted. As you saw, they have a very large discography, spanning over 40 years. I'd almost suggest starting a subchapter of videos dedicated to just them because they have so much music that is incredible, and it would be a worthy endeavor. But I also understand that would be a huge undertaking. I would like to suggest a few songs of their's for you to do reaction videos to that perhaps would be more in line with your channel.
1. Red Sector A - from the album Grace Under Pressure (it is inspired by Geddy Lee's family history with WW2)
2. The Pass - from the album Presto (this is one of the band's personal favorites to play and relates to what Ren and so many others have gone through)
3. Nobody's Hero - from the album Counterparts (it's about grieving loved ones and remembering their impact on our lives)
4. Ghost Rider - from the album Vapor Trails (the whole album is dedicated to the drummer Neil Peart's wife and daughter, who both died within a year of each other. The band broke up for a few years, he drove his motorcycle all over the world on a healing journey, returned and wrote the album. The song is about that journey. He also wrote a book about it. It's deep)
4. The Garden - from the album Colockwork Angels (their final album was a steampunk concept album, and this is the last song of their career. It is a poignant piece about measuring life with love and respect, and is epic)
They have almost 200 songs, and I want to suggest more, but I am certain you will have a lot to gleam from these. Honorable songs to mention:
The Trees
Something For Nothing
Entre Nous
Early Distant Warning
Afterimage
The Enemy Within
Bravado
Dreamline
Subdivisions
Losing It
The Speed of Love
Time Stands Still
The Mission
Resist
Working Them Angels
Armor and Sword
Vapor Trail
One Little Victory
Hope this finds you well.
Lots of love, ~B
I may have forgotten to mention a few songs😅.
The Manhattan Project
Ghost of a Chance
Territories
Mystic Rhythems
Anagram (For Mongo) (every line of this song is an anagram)
It is refreshing to hear your perspective as a first time listener to Rush, a band I grew up with since the mid 1970s and was privevalaged to see in concert in 1980. I envy your journey of discovery with Rush as a new fan. Enjoy, I wish you the best.
@19:43 - you nailed the meaning of Limelight. THANK YOU!
The drummer is Neil peart who unfortunately passed away in 2020 he was known as the professor and a lot of people say he was the best rock drummer ever if he wasn’t he is definitely in the top five
Neil, the drummer, writes all the lyrics, and they are deep. He was a voracious reader and a true man of the world. He traveled thousands of miles by bicycle and 10's of thousands on motorcycle. His tragic story of losing is only child at the time died on her first car trip to college, and then 10 months later his wife died of cancer. He was lost and he got on his motorcycle and rode all over north and central America. He wrote a book Ghostrider about his travel from the darkest dark back through to the light and life. Where a famous shy introvert was totally honest about the darkest thought a person could have.
Welcome to the greatness that is Rush. Watching you react to it made me feel like the first time that I heard them some 40 years ago. I’m so glad that you “get it”. The call & response of the drums & guitars, you got that dead on. And your analyzation of the lyrics, I know that Neil would really appreciate that. Thank you for doing this. You now have a new sub 🙂
I get so teary-eyed watching people react to Rush for the first time... sigh... I'm so happy they foster the same reactions WE had when WE first heard them!!! LOL
Rush is the first band that actually made start paying attention to the drums. Like, I always HEARD the drums, but Neil made me LISTEN. He's always been my favorite drummer. I was fortunate to see them live way back in High School and still one of my favorite concerts ever!!!
Welcome to Rush... i look forward to seeing more reactions from you!!! ❤
Yes!!! Rush is awesome! Neil Peart one of the best drummers of all time!More Rush songs: Tom Sawyer, Subdivisions, Spirit Of Radio, Freewill, YYZ, 2112, Red Barchetta, Working Man, Fly By Night, La Villa Strangiato, Closer To The Heart
RUSH is known for their creative use of time signatures with frequent changes and absolute connection between the members of the band. They maintained the same members for their entire career. When Neil Peart passed their was no question of replacing him. The band was a team of 3 that was uncompromising. When one member needed a break the band took a break. They were a cohesive unit that lived loyalty to the greater whole. "All the world is indeed a stage, we are merely players, performers and portrayers, each another's audience outside the gilded cage". Absolutely brilliant.
I mean, in the earliest days they had the typical rotations - for a little while after Alex brought Geddy in, they had five members - and their first album was with drummer John Rutsey, but once Rutsey had to leave (between his addiction issues and the fact that type 1 diabetes made international touring *very* difficult back then) and Neil joined, it was the three of them forever. Three of the best artists in their chosen media, all working together toward a common goal, the production of absolutely incredible music.
They actually started with a different drummer, and when they replaced him, Alex Lifeson didn't want to have Neil join right away! LOL. You can see that interview with Alex and Geddy somewhere on the Internet
It's a long one, but I'd love to see you dive into 2112!
Rosalie, that was perhaps the most adroit examination AND evaluation of Limelight I have ever heard. You nailed it! Well done. Geddy, Neil, and Alex would be proud! I grew up listening to Rush and became an understudy of the lyrics. I eventually became an accomplished drummer. Rush was the only band to combine seriously powerful music with deep, meaningful and, most of all, 'relatable' lyrics. If you want to see a masterpiece poem converted into a song, listen to "Losing It" by Rush. It is a deeply moving song and it brought me to tears the first time I heard. I was 15. That was 40 years ago. It still moves me to this day. This is not a tradtional rock song, but it has all the parts of a rock song you'd expect. Give it a listen if you can.
Great and beautiful analysis of the lyrics. What most people don't understand is that many artists are shy, or reserved, and being on stage is their time to express themselves and show who they are to the world, the songs that represent pieces of their soul, and their performances. For them, this is the time to interact with the world. And for them, that's enough.