Neil wasn’t just a drummer. He was a master percussionist, master lyricist ( he wrote nearly all of Rush’s lyrics), philosopher, best selling author……and he was “The Professor”. We miss ya, Neil.
I was a local stagehand in 1979 and as he was practicing I stood outside his door and listened to him practice. He noticed me and was so polite and asked me what I thought of the new piece he was working on. It was not recorded yet and it was Cygnus X-1. I was floored by how nice a guy he was and miss him being in the world, but him having given up all the music and his writing made a small part of my world a better place for knowing him for less than fifteen minutes.
Amazing how many drummers react to this video and never mention that for an extended period of time, Neil is playing a waltz beat with his feet and a totally different time signature with his hands. The limb separation is unbelievable, but instead they comment on his kit or the sound or whatever.
yeah that always blew me away as a fellow percussionist with my ears you hear that and are like WT the heck am I hearing. I bet a blind percussionist would appreciate this more than anyone
As for having seen the professor, as he’s called: First saw him in Worcester, Ma in late 1982 and last saw him in Tampa in 2012 (and many times in between)- He played a solo each concert and he took elements from his beginnings and built upon them each time- Truly a master and a privilege to have witnessed/heard him play.
Neil didn't just use them all for his solo, he used them all during the concert. The Rush library is so diverse and eclectic, that Neil incorporated lots of different sounds into the mix. As someone else mentioned, he wasn't just a drummer, but a percussionist, and that almost requires more than just drums. So, Neil's kit was the size it was to make sure he could cover all of the percussion sounds he used in every Rush song.
Perfect answer!! I've seen him with bigger sets and he still hit everything!! Greatest drummers like anything else is up for debate, but come on!! Not much debate here!!
In 1982 I was a sophomore in high school band as a drummer and my first concert was Rush (Signals tour). My life changed that night and 40 years later I’m still obsessed by Neil.
Yes, he used his whole drum kit at any given time he is probably the best drummer on this earth, and there a reason why they call him the professor he’s been playing for 40 years. I have looked up his drum sets before they are in upwards of 200,000 or more depending on the kit but for this person to react to his video and just talk about his feet, and and things is just ridiculous it is disrespectful to him, I mean, Neil Peart you need to do your homework dude I feel you disrespected him by what you said you know people get on here they watch his videos they need to talk about about his accomplishments. He was also wonderful lyrist I would say the best song rush ever did was red Barchetta, hands-down when Neil was 13 he had a passion for drumming he would take chopsticks in beat things around the house until that Christmas. His parents decide to get him a drum set. That’s what started it all. One more thing The Who was the band that inspired him to write and play the drums. There’s so much more about this man I wish people knew, but I don’t have a time to tell you all of it. You just have to read for yourself along with the professor and give the man the respect he deserves.
Saw him 12 times and hIs playing and drum solos were a major part of Rush's concerts. This kit is small compared to his 1977-1979 Hemispheres tour kit. From the tour book: "My drums are all by Slingerland, with the inner surface of the wooden shells treated with a process called Vibra-Fibing. This consists of a thin layer of glass fiber and resin. (The drums include) two 24" bass drums, 6",8",10", and 12" concert toms, 12", 13", 15", and 18" tom-toms, and a 5"x14" wood shell snare drum. All cymbals are by Avedis Zildjian, with the exception of an 18" Chinese cymbal. The Zildjians are 6" and 8" splash, two 16", one 18" and one 20" crash cymbals, and 22" ride, a pair of 13" hi-hats, and 18" pang and a 20" China type. In the percussion department are orchestra bells, tubular bells, wind chimes, crotales, timbales, tympani, gong, temple blocks, bell tree, triangle, and melodic cowbells. For heads I use Remo black dots on the snare and bass drums, Ludwig silver dots on the concert toms and timbales, and Evans Looking Glass (top), and Speed King pedals, and Tama and Pearl stands. I use Pro-Mark 747 drumsticks with the varnish sanded off the gripping area." The reason he needed so many drums and also sound triggers is because as you will see later Rush's songs included these drums and orchestral instruments. Neil "finally admitted defeat" when he gave into needing electronic drums and sampling a lot of those sounds instead of having a cumbersome all acoustic kit. So what you see here is a hybrid 50/50 kit that takes up much less space but was capable of having "any drum or any sound" at this finger tips with electronic drum pads and foot triggers, just like he demonstrated with playing the trumpet sounds on pads and foot trigger here in this solo. He also played his snare and clap trap with his feet to free up his hands to play other drums instead. Peart received the following awards in the Modern Drummer magazine reader's poll:[28][113] Hall of Fame: 1983 Best Rock Drummer*: 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 2006, 2008 Best Multi-Percussionist*: 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986 Best Percussion Instrumentalist: 1982 Most Promising New Drummer: 1980 Best All Around: 1986 1986 Honor Roll: Rock Drummer, Multi-Percussion (* - As a member of the Honor Roll in these categories, he is no longer eligible for votes in the above categories.) Best Instructional Video: 2006, for Anatomy of a Drum Solo Best Drum Recording of the 1980s, 2007, for "YYZ" from Exit... Stage Left Peart received the following awards from DRUM! magazine: 2007: Drummer of the Year, Best Progressive Rock Drummer, Best Live Performer, Best DVD (Anatomy Of A Drum Solo), Best Drumming Album (Snakes & Arrows)[114] 2008: Drummer of the Year, Best Live Drumming Performer, Best Progressive Rock Drummer , Best Mainstream Pop Drummer (Runner-Up)[115] 2009: Drummer Of The Year, Best Progressive Rock Drummer[116] 2010: Drummer of the Year, Best Live Performer , Best Progressive Rock Drummer [117] Other honors and awards Peart was made an Officer of the Order of Canada on May 9, 1996, together with Lee and Lifeson. The trio was the first rock band to be so honoured, as a group.[118] Peart was inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame along with Lifeson and Lee in 2010.[119] On April 18, 2013, Rush was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.[120] In 2020, the St. Catharines city council named the pavilion in Lakeside Park (in Port Dalhousie, Ontario) after Peart.[121][122] Peart was inducted into the Percussive Arts Society Hall of Fame in 2020.[123] Best Recorded Performance: 1980: Permanent Waves 1981: Moving Pictures 1982: Exit... Stage Left 1983: Signals 1985: Grace Under Pressure 1986: Power Windows 1988: Hold Your Fire 1989: A Show of Hands 1990: Presto 1992: Roll the Bones 1993: Counterparts 1997: Test for Echo 1999: Different Stages 2002: Vapor Trails 2004: R30 2007: Snakes & Arrows 2011: Time Machine 2012: Clockwork Angels
That’s an excellent summary of his Achievements. It still amuses me when people argue and say that he isn’t the Best Ever. I wonder if those people realize that Peart is their favorite drummer’s Favorite Drummer.Many are very good. Neil was a Virtuoso…
Near the end, When Neil flipped one of his sticks in the air, Niel caught the drum stick the wrong way (With the but end out), But he immediately noticed this, flipped it around with his fingers on one hand and, even after this, he left himself with plenty of time for that next “hit” on the symbols. This is why he is called the professor. He didn’t even panic. He just knew how to get the job done and he did it. Effortlessly. As A side note I am quite sure he triggered the horn sounds with his bass drum hits. Listen, there was no horn “blasts” without a bass drum hit. The ending sequences’ may have been a section of big band that he triggered on a one time basis. As an amateur drummer, I want to say Niel “WORKED”. He worked on every drum hit he did. He said this in a few interviews, that he always wanted to be the best he could be. Even in the R40 tour (40 years since the band was established), Neil said “time” was an enemy. But an enemy he would not let get the best of him. His body was going through the natural phase of aging. But that just made Niel work harder. We should all strive to be like Niel. Whether it’s drumming or processing packages at a package processing plant. Do the best you can be and strive for more. That’s what made Niel the professor of his craft. I can’t tell you how the passing of Niel has affected me, But I think, if Niel and I had this conversation (about sadness in his passing), he would say “Just relax and do what you do your best”. And if asked about my own drumming abilities, Niel might say “Always strive to better at what you do. Don’t get lazy and say you have already reached your best. Because your best has yet to come. No Matter what your age.” Niel knew this. He is a model for us all. Look at his writings of Rush’s songs. mostly just “Happy”, and sometimes with a message. There was a lot of analysis of Niel’s lyrics for “The Trees”, about people in society being suppressed and the need to rise above. When asked, Niel replied, and I am paraphrasing here… “It was just a fantasy about Oaks and Maples in the forest”. And my reaction to this was, YES! Thank you Niel. That’s all it was, and I only took it as such. A fun song about some factitious cartoonish characters, about the “Oaks” and the “Maples” in the forest. Just plain good fun. God Rest Niel Peart.
I've been fortunate enough to see Rush live 17 times since the 80s, and IT NEVER GETS OLD!! One of the few bands that people don't head out for a break during the drum solo.
The drum kit is actually two different drum kits combined. The kit is Drum Workshop for the acoustic and Roland V-Drums for the electronic kit. There is Roland foot triggers on the floor and the midi mallet is also part of the kit. The Roland V-Drums and Midi Mallet and foot triggers are connected to a rack of synthesizers and samplers via midi. All sounds are played by Neil including the brass insturments during the jazz part at the end. This was played halfway during a three hour performance
That kit is 24 carat gold my friend! 2 kits actually! It breaks my heart that Neil is gone. 😢. Thanks for the video, I LOVE this solo, and have watched it many times! I never get tired of it!
I was lucky enough to see this Kit up close at a local Guitar Center. Neil wasn't with it, but his drum tech was and did cool walk around of the kit. Very cool!! As far as seeing them along with this solo, yes, many many times over the years! As far as tired, these solos were in the middle part of a 3 to 3 1/2 hour concert! Great reaction!!
There is an interview on line with Neil where he talks about visiting the Sabian factory in Meductic, New Brunswick and working with their master craftsmen to create their Paragon Neil Peart line of cymbals. Prepare yourself for some sticker shock if you look them up.
He was the best drummer, hands down.. we have some very awesome drummer's today out there, but none of them play like this right they all want to play fast.. but as you can see here, it's not always about speed. Yes, speed is amazing, but this right here is talent like no other.. not to say others don't have talent, but this is on another level that i believe is going to be missed. RIP Neil, and thank you for all the years we got to see you play.. And as far as the best song from Rush lol i can't find one they are all killer tunes.. I've seen Rush 2 times.. thanks for sharing this with us..
I started listening to Rush in 1976 and saw them live in 1977, my first concert! Got to see them play 2112! 2 points with this video.. 1, his percussion set then was Massive! 2, his age when he performed this solo. The Professor was and will Always be THE GOAT!!
Thanks for watching the greatest drummer ever. I have seen Rush ten times and his drum solos seen live shake the concert halls and walls with his energy. Without Rush I would not be the person I am today they inspired me in many ways possible. Neil’s integrity and passion to be the best at his mastery of drumming changed millions of their fans lives. This is not just music it is pure genius at its best. Neil Peart was fifty years of age on Sept 4, 2004 at the time of this recording and you will never see anyone play at this level at that age again. Oh those drum kits are priceless today and are now in a museum in Toronto. They were £250,000 to build custom and he had a new one built custom on every tour over their forty years as a band. I’m am truly privileged to have seen them as many times as I have. I first saw them on the Presto tour in Toronto at the Maple Leaf Gardens in 1990. Rush will always be the best three piece band ever to walk the face of Earth and they came from Canada. Neil Peart will live forever in our hearts and mind. RIP Neil Peart
I had the opportunity to be front row center in Fresno when rush plaid opening show for the roll the bones tour. then 5 month later in reno amazing shows.
Saw him play in 88, 90, 97 & 2002 We were so close in 88 I could see his drum set spin around in the dark from “regular” side to the electric side, he just sat there of course. This blew my mind as a 15 year old kid ❤ rest now Neal
As I am an amateur drummer & a professional performance fabricator & builder of course my favorite Rush song is Red Barchetta. I was lucky enough to see Rush 4 times.
Neil Peart created an orchestra of percussion. How many icons have played an instrument but have gone to compose some of the most memorable music to date? Mr Neil Peart is that icon. RIP
My very first concert ever was Rush Snakes & Arrows tour 2007 in Illinois, I was privileged enough to see him play, and they surprisingly came back around for a second go! I've always been very musically inclined, maybe not so much musically talented, but I'm still, to this day, very grateful I was allowed to experience the drum solos he brought. Of course Alex and Geddy were just as amazing, I will never forget those amazing concerts.
I saw Rush at least ten times live. They were memories I will never forget. Truly unforgettable. My favorite band. Also, There is a documentary out there about DW with Neil Peart. He had ordered his touring set from DW and they go over what it took to build and deliver it. It's fascinating.
Couple of answers. You mentioned he must be tired, this was in the middle of a 3 hour concert. If you head down the Rush Rabbit hole, you'll find that while his solo is great, most songs are written at that level of quality, quantity and precision. With regardeds to Metal in him, Rush had been seen as one of the godfathers of progressive metal. If you listen to their catalogue, they are a progressive band in that they progress throughout their 40 year, 19 album career together. As you listen to them to you'll say, oh that sounds like... and then you'll see that they were a few years ahead of that genre of rock. All three members of Rush, Geddy Lee (lead vocals, bass, keys & peddles for synth and bass), Alex Lifeson (Lead acoustic, 12 string and 6 string guitar, mandolin & backing vocals) and Neil Peart (purcussion & lyrics) have been recognized as the best of their instruments at different times in their careers together as a 3 piece band. The washers were a joke. Geddy decided to get rid of the Amps on stage and go through the house mix and speakers, but Alex wanted to keep his Marshall amp stack. To balance the stage, Geddy had the road crew put washers and dryers, vending machines, roticcerie chicken ovens etc behind him. If you love drumming and want to see the band, watch YYZ: Rio, Xanadu: Exit stage left concert, then Tom Sawyer official video, Working Man - Live in Cleveland, The Weapon live... & La Villa Strangiato Then you'll be ready for 2112, Camera Eye,
He was always very ferocious, hits those drums with intent to make them ring true as he could get them to go, I was surprised he lasted as long as he did.
He was 1 of the most phenomenal drummer i have ever seen he is a professor of the drums God Bless you Neil Peart and thank you for all your hard work and giving everyone a lesson on the drums RIP Neil Peart the legend of the drums
Back in Oct of 2010, my friends and I were fortunate enough to see Professor Neil and his bandmates of Rush when they performed in West Palm Beach, Florida during their Time Machine tour. Neil did a similar drum solo during the concert.
Saw Rush many times, I believe they were the best live band ever. All 3 excel in their talents. Neil always amazed me. Rush became part of me over the years like I didn't think possible.
It's always particularly neat to watch drummers react to Neil's solo, because they see things from a different perspective than most of us and can appreciate it in different ways.
I’ve seen them live around 20 or 30 times. Always astounding. A 3 member band that blasted you with sound. Every concert was flawless. My dad was a drummer in the 60’s and said he was the most impressive drummer he’s ever seen.
I had the pleasure of attending every Rush concert in Toronto since 1984 until the very end. Neil's solo was always a highlight. His solo wasn't at the end of the show, it was usually in the middle and he'd still pound it out until the end of the night. I appreciated your reaction, keep up the great work, I'd suggest Rush's Working Man, live from Cleveland for you, it was their last song in their encore that night, shows their stamina.
I had the privilege of seeing this solo live along with the rest of the awesomeness that was a Rush concert. We all flipped our shit when the kit spun, best drum solo ever.
It was the pleasure of my life to have seen Rush live 28 times and it got better and better each time! Neil was a god amongst mortals! Rest in Peace sir!
The first, and sadly the only time I saw Rush live was in 2012 in their Clockwork Angels tour. They played most of their great hits, but also played more of their 80's material in that tour, which I'm very fond of to this day. Their live performance was simply incredible. Neil's drum solos were fantastic and goes to show why he was called The Professor. My personal favourite song from Rush is The Analog Kid, while my personal favourite album from Rush is Power Windows. Their career spanning 4 decades goes to show how resilient they were with music throughout the times, and how other artists and bands inspired their sounds throughout their career. Neil was such a legendary percussionist, and not just a drummer, but he was also a genuine person and was mostly an introvert. So grateful to see Rush in person, especially Neil. Rest in peace.
seen them a bunch of times but never met them. I did hang out with his best friend of 60 years, Brad, on new years. Super cool guy and very intelligent.
Hi Colby- yeah i saw Rush live back in the 90s and he was incredible then......a Master just like he is now...No One will ever be like him or play like him.....the GOAT RIP Neil.....as far as my favorite song...there are many but the good ones are off Grace under pressure and Power Windows, Signals and many others, they are all great songs.
Saw them twice here in AZ. Once on their snakes and arrows tour, i was a young kid then, maybe 8 or 9. I was young, didnt fully realize what i was seeing but i knew it was greatness. Saw them again on their time machine tour at 16ish and he played this infamous drum solo, came out of there a changed young man. Im eternally greatfull i got to witness the professors genius. All thanks to my pops for getting me into great music. Love ya dad
He he he 😅 "that drum set looks very expensive" It's the finest, and they f*cking give it to him for free... You asked my favorite Rush song while I was commenting, ridiculously insane question. Gun at my head, have to go with La Villa Strangiato. Saw 27 live shows since you asked too... Wish I had seen 2700. ✌️ React to Neil Peart -Cottontail with the Buddy Rich Band. You'll p*ss your pants...
Was privileged to see RUSH live a few times. Fantastic live concerts! The master and professor of the percussions. Neil had triggers rigged to play the jazz piece at the end of the drum solo. Look closing as he hits symbols and you’ll hear the horn section. R.I.P. Professor❤
I saw Rush at Disneyland in about 1981 and was seated about 20 feet from Neil and his drums. It was an awesome experience. I was primarily a mallet percussionist but my friend who was a very serious drummer returned several nights in a row to watch the same performance.
Saw them from the Moving Pictures Tour all the way through and had the pleasure of working the Power Windows Tour (4/20/86). Worked the load in, soundcheck, truss spot for the show and the load out. Actually got the opportunity to help the drum tech and handled Neil's drum kit. Then spent the rest of the afternoon setting up Blue Oyster Cult. Favorite Rush tune, Lakeside Park and the drum kit he is playing in the video costs more than your house. Favorite saying about Neil; Drummers use metronomes, metronomes use Neil Peart.
I missed my high-school graduation and my girlfriend's junior prom (now my wife, who doesn't let me forget it) to see Rush concerts. Tells you all you need to know about how I feel about them I guess. :) Caught a t-shirt thrown out by Alex at two different back-to-back tours, and probably saw them over a dozen times throughout the decades. My older brother played 2112 for me when I was 8 and the rest was history. Bought my first album, of any band, when I was 9, and that album was Moving Pictures. Hard to pick a favorite album, let alone song, but MP is probably at the top.
Neal Peart ( peeert ) designed this kit himself as well as the individual drums. He hand picked all the material they are made of. The hardware is 24k good plated. Red Barchetta, then Limelight.
I had the pleasure of seeing Rush 53 times including the final show at the Forum in LA.... Neil was always amazing and spot on.... Best live band ever, and I have been to over 300 concerts in my life. Look forward to more Rush reactions from you.
I attended the same high school as Neil. Saw him as a young drummer in the band JR Flood in St.Catharines and many times with RUSH. He's easily St.Catharines most famous home grown talent. There's now a beautiful monument of Neil at Lakeside park in Port Dalhousie.
I first seen Rush in 89, and many times in between. But taken my son son to his first Rush concert was so special to me. He was 5 years old, front row seats, and Alex Lifeson gave him a pick.
I saw Rush 13 times, twice (same tour) in the same year. The first time I saw them was in 1981. The last time was in 2015, their last tour. I would of loved to see them more after that but they didn't tour after the R40 Live Tour. Through the 2000's to the 2015 tour, Rush played 3 hour concerts and Neil's solo was in the middle of the show. He was a machine conditioned to play long sets. He was also in his mid 50s here. The horns you hear before the big band part was him playing with his left foot. The big band part was his tribute to Buddy Rich.
Just watched this. I’m enjoying your videos. I did get to see Neil in Phoenix on this tour, and this is the solo he did. You probably know this now, but he was Canadian and played Sabian cymbals for the last several years of his career. Great channel you have. 👍🏼
It was VERY amazing seeing him live. I remember the concert I was at where I suddenly realized that he was a literal living legend and told my partner as much.
Neil is commonly referred to as "your favorite drummer's favorite drummer." I really think he has serious contention for the greatest of all time. I saw Rush 5 times live and every one was an unforgettable experience. Each of them had a way of standing out that didn't squash the others. Their concerts were always beat for beat the same as the album and they always embellished to make their concerts memorable. Always with a touch of humor (yes that is a washer/dryer on stage) and always playing to the crowd for over 40 years. Concert footage from Rio must not be missed. When you watch the video for Xanadu (would love to see a reaction), notice the kit and how much it has changed. These guys were truly a 3 piece orchestra. You really can't go wrong picking something from the rabbit hole to listen to. Thanks and enjoy!
I first watched Neal Peart live in 1981, Moving Pictures Tour at The Forum in Ingelwood Ca. Then I watched Rush 6 consecutive albums concerts, Signals, Grace Under Pressure, Power Windows, Hold Your Fire, Presto and Roll The Bones. I did go to there last concert R40 live which would be Neal "The Professors" last tour. I was very fortunate to have seen him so many times. Now best song, to hard to pick one! RIP NEAL PEART🙏
I have seen Rush 8 times and they never disappoint they always put on a great show and then Neil Peart would put on his own show on the drums RIP Neil Peart the best drummer ever
My very first Concert was KISS with a small 3-piece band I'd never heard of called RUSH. August 1977. in the years since I've seen RUSH 37 times. Met the "Boys" in person 3 times. As a self taught, dyslexic Drummer, The Professor is with out a doubt my #1 influence. When Jan7 2020, my best friend called me, He's like "are you driving" I'm like "Yeah". He replied "I really need you to pull over, this is going to be rough"... Immediately my mind went to my Wife and 2 Boys, or 1 of His family. The saying goes "Do you remember where you were when . I was driving north toward Wichita, KS. I pulled over, let out a deep breathe and replied "What's up? is everyone alright?" He's like We've been friends for going on 20 years. I called ~L and asked Her and She said she didn't have it in her to tell you".... Now I'm panicking... " WHAT!!?? Are they ok? WHAT!1?" He cleared his throat and almost Whispered ">Neil Peart past this morning" ... Long pause, no comment from Me. "~R? Buddy you there?" Longer pause. " Dude! talk to Me say SOMETHiNG!? Anything!" I croaked out "thank you for calling to let me know. I love you like the family you are. I have 5 more hours of driving and i need to switch my play list and soak this in"... I'm not being over dramatic or anything. As Queensryche said ".. I feel like I've hit by a 10 ton, heavy thing" is the best descriptor of my state of mind. I queued up my dedicated RUSH Spotify playlist which, in and of itself is selected with purpose and reason. I spent the next 5.5 hours drumming on my Subaru's steering wheel through tears. The greatest Drummer I've ever heard, known, and met. Neil, RIP joining your Wife and Daughter, which wrote, both lyrically and in book form, literally, many times. < bow> To The Professor. ~R.
I never liked Rush until I was invited by a friend to go see them live. Wow!!! Musicianship extraordinaire. Bass awesome! Guitar awesome! Drums, GODLIKE. BEEN. Huge fan ever since.
You dont know how many times I have said to myself, what right do I have even walking by a drumset never mind owning one, thats what happens when I watch and listen to the master do his thing. My friends and I, growing up, would always say "he's not human, theres no way a mortal man can do that on a drum kit". I still get a bit emtional listening to Neil work the kit, he will be missed but NEVER forgotten, thank you for music Neil, RIP sir.
Great reaction!! I was fortunate to see Rush, on the Roll The Bones tour. Neil had his drum setup, configured in a cylinder, with each level/section, independent from the others. At one point, he spun the top section clockwise, the middle section counter-clockwise and hit every piece, as they rotated around him. That was something I'd never ever seen before...just God-like. I think that may have inspired him to expand his drum kit, into two full kits. Check out La Villa Strangiato (studio version) and analyze his style, from that time. See what you think.
I was lucky enough to see Rush live 8 times beginning in 1981. And Neil Peart (pronunced Peer-t, not pert) is THE quintessential rock percussionist, although in this solo he showcased several styles of playing. I did see this particular solo during the 30th anniversary tour (R30) in Milwaukee. At the time of this performance, Neil was about 53!! And his solo happened at about the 2.5 hour mark! RIP Professor.... 🙏🥁🙏
I saw Rush 3 times, one of those times was the tour this video was from. Amazing to see him (them) live! Musical genuis, master of his craft and a humble human being.... he is surely missed!
My favorite Rush song is tje Garden.. Seen the Band in Concert Many Many times.. So Happy when I became a parent to my only child and was able to spend time at their shows with Him. Memories that will last long after I will be gone.
Thanks for the reaction. I saw them 7 times, I think. My visual memory sucks, so I've had to rely on ticket stubs, friends, etc, to figure it out! Favourite songs: Cygnus X-1, Books 1 & 2 Natural Science Limelight Spirit of Radio Losing It Subdivisions The Garden Red Barchetta Analog Kid Just FYI, Peart pronounced his name P-ear-T, not P-ur-T. In other words, it rhymed with ear, steer, or beer - not dirt, shirt, or hurt.
Sabian Paragon cymbals. Made for him. DW kit with 24k gold hardware. 23 inch bass drum. Roland V-Drums set in DW shells. Ive seen Rush 8 times and every show was amazing. Geddy used Dryers and vending machines because they ran his bass direct. What an amazing group. You should read Neil's books. He was a great writer.
I was listening to Rush's "Presto" album recently, and it sounds like elements from the first part of this drum solo were taken from the song "Scars". If you listen to the 3rd verse of the song you can hear the same tribal drums and African rhythm.
His kit: One of two kits that Neil Peart played on the R40 Live tour. Click to see the R40 Live Retro kit. Drums: DW shells made from 1500-year-old Romanian River Oak in Dyed Black Pear finish Electronic drums: Neil didn't use his trademark satellite electronics kit. This kit did include V-drum, Dauz, and KAT pedals Cymbals: Brilliant finish Sabian Paragon; 14" Paragon Brilliant hi-hats (main) and 14" Artisan Brilliant hi-hats (x-hat); two new sizes introduced, 17" and 19" Sticks: Pro-Mark 747 wood tip Neil Peart Autograph model (Oak) Drums: DW shells made from Romanian bog oak in Dyed Black Pear finish A. 6.5x14 NP Icon snare B. 13x15 floor tom C. 3x13 piccolo snare D. 7x8 rack tom E. 7x10 rack tom F. 8x12 rack tom G. 9x13 rack tom H. 12x15 floor tom I. 16x16 floor tom J. 18x18 suspended floor tom K. 16x23 bass drum with Kelly Shu miking system Cymbals: Sabian Paragon with brilliant finish 1. 10" splash 2. 20" crash 3. 14" hi-hats 4. 17" crash 5. 10" splash 6. 16" crash 7. 22" ride 8. 8" splash 9. 14" Artisan hi-hats 10. 19" crash 11. 20" China 12. 20" Diamondback 13. 19" China Electronics: aa. Roland TD-30 trigger pads mounted in DW shells bb. custom-built Dauz trigger pad (the "target" head is a Who reference). The dryers are there because Geddy likes runs his bass through the house PA system and they put stuff over there to fill inthe space where his amp stack would be. I saw RUSH every tour starting with Permanent Waves. Needless to say I'm a huge fan. Seeing them live is an experience. Great vid brother. Peace
Saw rush over 30 time's in my life, and Everytime Neil.just got better and better until reaching what myself as a drummer would say is perfection!,there will Never be another professor!! rest in peace Mr.Peart, All of us back here on planet earth miss you, and by the way this Solo was performed in the middle of a 3hour concert with Neil having the Flu!!!,
Been a Rush fan since 79 have seen them many times but the best was taking my sons to their 1st Rush concert on the Snake & Arrows tour I can't wait to introduce my new grandson to their music
Canadian here ... only ever got to see them once live on the Clockwork Angels tour in Austin, TX. I've seen a thousand live performances over 40 years, and they are still head-and-above the best ever.
I saw them a few times and all 3 were masters of their instruments. Rush was a well oiled machine and there will never be another band like it, thanks for the reaction.
Neil wasn’t just a drummer. He was a master percussionist, master lyricist ( he wrote nearly all of Rush’s lyrics), philosopher, best selling author……and he was “The Professor”. We miss ya, Neil.
True!
I 29th this comment. Spot on.
The Professor was a master of his craft.
Th best ever rip neil
The correct term is “musician”
Almost brings a tear to my eye seeing the Ol’ Professor doing what he did best. And such a kind, humble, and quiet human being. RIP Neil.
🤘🏻🙌🏻🐐
I was a local stagehand in 1979 and as he was practicing I stood outside his door and listened to him practice. He noticed me and was so polite and asked me what I thought of the new piece he was working on. It was not recorded yet and it was Cygnus X-1. I was floored by how nice a guy he was and miss him being in the world, but him having given up all the music and his writing made a small part of my world a better place for knowing him for less than fifteen minutes.
🤘🏻
You are envied. Congrats man, especially with how much of a recluse he was (understandably).
I have never met him, but you feel him through his drumming, he's sadly missed!
Neil was one of a kind. I’ve followed Rush for over 40 years now. Nothing compares to them. Thanks for sharing.
Amazing how many drummers react to this video and never mention that for an extended period of time, Neil is playing a waltz beat with his feet and a totally different time signature with his hands. The limb separation is unbelievable, but instead they comment on his kit or the sound or whatever.
This was a live reaction, thanks for the input!
But what he also did with that was vary the top tempo against the Boom Chick chick , He said that he practiced that a long time to be able to do it ,
yeah that always blew me away as a fellow percussionist with my ears you hear that and are like WT the heck am I hearing. I bet a blind percussionist would appreciate this more than anyone
spot on Derek that is what blew me away I find it hard to rub my tummy and pat my head simultaneously using 2 limbs!
Yeah I don’t think any drummer then and now that can do this ??
They're will only be one Neil Peart in our lifetime. 🐐. I'm one of the lucky ones to hear his perfection through the years.❤️🍻🥁🇨🇦
How Neill plays a time beat with his foot and his hands are doing something completely different.
Master.
As for having seen the professor, as he’s called: First saw him in Worcester, Ma in late 1982 and last saw him in Tampa in 2012 (and many times in between)- He played a solo each concert and he took elements from his beginnings and built upon them each time- Truly a master and a privilege to have witnessed/heard him play.
I’m jealous!! So cool BK! Stay tuned in for more 🤘🏻
"How many drums does one need?" Answer: All of them. He uses all of them in this solo.
I was going to say that. Glad I found this first.
And he did to! Thanks for the feedback! Stay tuned in for more🤘🏻
Neil didn't just use them all for his solo, he used them all during the concert. The Rush library is so diverse and eclectic, that Neil incorporated lots of different sounds into the mix. As someone else mentioned, he wasn't just a drummer, but a percussionist, and that almost requires more than just drums. So, Neil's kit was the size it was to make sure he could cover all of the percussion sounds he used in every Rush song.
Neil used nearly all them in a few "kitchen sink" sections of the solo.
Perfect answer!! I've seen him with bigger sets and he still hit everything!! Greatest drummers like anything else is up for debate, but come on!! Not much debate here!!
In 1982 I was a sophomore in high school band as a drummer and my first concert was Rush (Signals tour). My life changed that night and 40 years later I’m still obsessed by Neil.
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That was my first concert as well in upstate ny. Seen them in tampa and 4 time at Red Rocks
Unlike most drummers with huge kits, Neil’s isn’t for show, he utilizes everything and always has. A true percussionist.👍
I see that!
Yes, he used his whole drum kit at any given time he is probably the best drummer on this earth, and there a reason why they call him the professor he’s been playing for 40 years. I have looked up his drum sets before they are in upwards of 200,000 or more depending on the kit but for this person to react to his video and just talk about his feet, and and things is just ridiculous it is disrespectful to him, I mean, Neil Peart you need to do your homework dude I feel you disrespected him by what you said you know people get on here they watch his videos they need to talk about about his accomplishments. He was also wonderful lyrist I would say the best song rush ever did was red Barchetta, hands-down when Neil was 13 he had a passion for drumming he would take chopsticks in beat things around the house until that Christmas. His parents decide to get him a drum set. That’s what started it all. One more thing The Who was the band that inspired him to write and play the drums. There’s so much more about this man I wish people knew, but I don’t have a time to tell you all of it. You just have to read for yourself along with the professor and give the man the respect he deserves.
Saw him 12 times and hIs playing and drum solos were a major part of Rush's concerts. This kit is small compared to his 1977-1979 Hemispheres tour kit. From the tour book: "My drums are all by Slingerland, with the inner surface of the wooden shells treated with a process called Vibra-Fibing. This consists of a thin layer of glass fiber and resin. (The drums include) two 24" bass drums, 6",8",10", and 12" concert toms, 12", 13", 15", and 18" tom-toms, and a 5"x14" wood shell snare drum. All cymbals are by Avedis Zildjian, with the exception of an 18" Chinese cymbal. The Zildjians are 6" and 8" splash, two 16", one 18" and one 20" crash cymbals, and 22" ride, a pair of 13" hi-hats, and 18" pang and a 20" China type.
In the percussion department are orchestra bells, tubular bells, wind chimes, crotales, timbales, tympani, gong, temple blocks, bell tree, triangle, and melodic cowbells.
For heads I use Remo black dots on the snare and bass drums, Ludwig silver dots on the concert toms and timbales, and Evans Looking Glass (top), and Speed King pedals, and Tama and Pearl stands. I use Pro-Mark 747 drumsticks with the varnish sanded off the gripping area." The reason he needed so many drums and also sound triggers is because as you will see later Rush's songs included these drums and orchestral instruments. Neil "finally admitted defeat" when he gave into needing electronic drums and sampling a lot of those sounds instead of having a cumbersome all acoustic kit. So what you see here is a hybrid 50/50 kit that takes up much less space but was capable of having "any drum or any sound" at this finger tips with electronic drum pads and foot triggers, just like he demonstrated with playing the trumpet sounds on pads and foot trigger here in this solo. He also played his snare and clap trap with his feet to free up his hands to play other drums instead. Peart received the following awards in the Modern Drummer magazine reader's poll:[28][113]
Hall of Fame: 1983
Best Rock Drummer*: 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 2006, 2008
Best Multi-Percussionist*: 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986
Best Percussion Instrumentalist: 1982
Most Promising New Drummer: 1980
Best All Around: 1986
1986 Honor Roll: Rock Drummer, Multi-Percussion
(* - As a member of the Honor Roll in these categories, he is no longer eligible for votes in the above categories.)
Best Instructional Video: 2006, for Anatomy of a Drum Solo
Best Drum Recording of the 1980s, 2007, for "YYZ" from Exit... Stage Left
Peart received the following awards from DRUM! magazine:
2007: Drummer of the Year, Best Progressive Rock Drummer, Best Live Performer, Best DVD (Anatomy Of A Drum Solo), Best Drumming Album (Snakes & Arrows)[114]
2008: Drummer of the Year, Best Live Drumming Performer, Best Progressive Rock Drummer
, Best Mainstream Pop Drummer (Runner-Up)[115]
2009: Drummer Of The Year, Best Progressive Rock Drummer[116]
2010: Drummer of the Year, Best Live Performer , Best Progressive Rock Drummer [117]
Other honors and awards
Peart was made an Officer of the Order of Canada on May 9, 1996, together with Lee and Lifeson. The trio was the first rock band to be so honoured, as a group.[118]
Peart was inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame along with Lifeson and Lee in 2010.[119]
On April 18, 2013, Rush was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.[120]
In 2020, the St. Catharines city council named the pavilion in Lakeside Park (in Port Dalhousie, Ontario) after Peart.[121][122]
Peart was inducted into the Percussive Arts Society Hall of Fame in 2020.[123]
Best Recorded Performance:
1980: Permanent Waves
1981: Moving Pictures
1982: Exit... Stage Left
1983: Signals
1985: Grace Under Pressure
1986: Power Windows
1988: Hold Your Fire
1989: A Show of Hands
1990: Presto
1992: Roll the Bones
1993: Counterparts
1997: Test for Echo
1999: Different Stages
2002: Vapor Trails
2004: R30
2007: Snakes & Arrows
2011: Time Machine
2012: Clockwork Angels
Wow 😯
That’s an excellent summary of his Achievements. It still amuses me when people argue and say that he isn’t the Best Ever. I wonder if those people realize that Peart is their favorite drummer’s Favorite Drummer.Many are very good. Neil was a Virtuoso…
Near the end, When Neil flipped one of his sticks in the air, Niel caught the drum stick the wrong way (With the but end out), But he immediately noticed this, flipped it around with his fingers on one hand and, even after this, he left himself with plenty of time for that next “hit” on the symbols. This is why he is called the professor. He didn’t even panic. He just knew how to get the job done and he did it. Effortlessly.
As A side note I am quite sure he triggered the horn sounds with his bass drum hits. Listen, there was no horn “blasts” without a bass drum hit. The ending sequences’ may have been a section of big band that he triggered on a one time basis.
As an amateur drummer, I want to say Niel “WORKED”. He worked on every drum hit he did. He said this in a few interviews, that he always wanted to be the best he could be. Even in the R40 tour (40 years since the band was established), Neil said “time” was an enemy. But an enemy he would not let get the best of him. His body was going through the natural phase of aging. But that just made Niel work harder. We should all strive to be like Niel. Whether it’s drumming or processing packages at a package processing plant. Do the best you can be and strive for more. That’s what made Niel the professor of his craft.
I can’t tell you how the passing of Niel has affected me, But I think, if Niel and I had this conversation (about sadness in his passing), he would say “Just relax and do what you do your best”. And if asked about my own drumming abilities, Niel might say “Always strive to better at what you do. Don’t get lazy and say you have already reached your best. Because your best has yet to come. No Matter what your age.” Niel knew this. He is a model for us all. Look at his writings of Rush’s songs. mostly just “Happy”, and sometimes with a message.
There was a lot of analysis of Niel’s lyrics for “The Trees”, about people in society being suppressed and the need to rise above. When asked, Niel replied, and I am paraphrasing here… “It was just a fantasy about Oaks and Maples in the forest”. And my reaction to this was, YES! Thank you Niel. That’s all it was, and I only took it as such. A fun song about some factitious cartoonish characters, about the “Oaks” and the “Maples” in the forest. Just plain good fun. God Rest Niel Peart.
I've been fortunate enough to see Rush live 17 times since the 80s, and IT NEVER GETS OLD!! One of the few bands that people don't head out for a break during the drum solo.
Wow I am jealous!
i've seen them 9 times and their shows never disappoint!!! that doesn't include that i seen them twice in 2 different cities on the same tour!!
The drum kit is actually two different drum kits combined. The kit is Drum Workshop for the acoustic and Roland V-Drums for the electronic kit. There is Roland foot triggers on the floor and the midi mallet is also part of the kit. The Roland V-Drums and Midi Mallet and foot triggers are connected to a rack of synthesizers and samplers via midi. All sounds are played by Neil including the brass insturments during the jazz part at the end. This was played halfway during a three hour performance
That makes sense!
He had the nickname of The Professor, he was always learning from other drummers so he could improve. The Professor and the student.
That kit is 24 carat gold my friend! 2 kits actually! It breaks my heart that Neil is gone. 😢. Thanks for the video, I LOVE this solo, and have watched it many times! I never get tired of it!
I saw Rush Live from the mid 70's so many times I lost count LOL.
The professor is just masterful, no one does it better in my opinion.
I was lucky enough to see this Kit up close at a local Guitar Center. Neil wasn't with it, but his drum tech was and did cool walk around of the kit. Very cool!! As far as seeing them along with this solo, yes, many many times over the years! As far as tired, these solos were in the middle part of a 3 to 3 1/2 hour concert! Great reaction!!
Cool!
I’m Canadian, so I got to see Rush way back in the day…1978 to be exact…and it was amazing. Neil was known for using Sabian cymbals.
Thanks for sharing!
There is an interview on line with Neil where he talks about visiting the Sabian factory in Meductic, New Brunswick and working with their master craftsmen to create their Paragon Neil Peart line of cymbals. Prepare yourself for some sticker shock if you look them up.
My first concert was Rush. When vapor trails came out. Saw them five times after that! Best band live ever
He was the best drummer, hands down.. we have some very awesome drummer's today out there, but none of them play like this right they all want to play fast.. but as you can see here, it's not always about speed. Yes, speed is amazing, but this right here is talent like no other.. not to say others don't have talent, but this is on another level that i believe is going to be missed. RIP Neil, and thank you for all the years we got to see you play.. And as far as the best song from Rush lol i can't find one they are all killer tunes.. I've seen Rush 2 times.. thanks for sharing this with us..
I started listening to Rush in 1976 and saw them live in 1977, my first concert! Got to see them play 2112! 2 points with this video.. 1, his percussion set then was Massive! 2, his age when he performed this solo. The Professor was and will Always be THE GOAT!!
I had the privilege of working with Rush for the One Little Victory Tour - Rush In Rio. Neil was beyond words incredible.
Was very lucky to finally catch him on the last tour R40 in Dallas and beyond made my life getting to hear Xanadu!
Thanks for watching the greatest drummer ever. I have seen Rush ten times and his drum solos seen live shake the concert halls and walls with his energy. Without Rush I would not be the person I am today they inspired me in many ways possible. Neil’s integrity and passion to be the best at his mastery of drumming changed millions of their fans lives. This is not just music it is pure genius at its best. Neil Peart was fifty years of age on Sept 4, 2004 at the time of this recording and you will never see anyone play at this level at that age again.
Oh those drum kits are priceless today and are now in a museum in Toronto. They were £250,000 to build custom and he had a new one built custom on every tour over their forty years as a band.
I’m am truly privileged to have seen them as many times as I have. I first saw them on the Presto tour in Toronto at the Maple Leaf Gardens in 1990. Rush will always be the best three piece band ever to walk the face of Earth and they came from Canada.
Neil Peart will live forever in our hearts and mind. RIP Neil Peart
I saw Neil and Rush perform many, many times over the years, and so fortunate to do so. RIP professor, u were the greatest
So cool!
I had the opportunity to be front row center in Fresno when rush plaid opening show for the roll the bones tour. then 5 month later in reno amazing shows.
Awesome!
Saw him play in 88, 90, 97 & 2002 We were so close in 88 I could see his drum set spin around in the dark from “regular” side to the electric side, he just sat there of course. This blew my mind as a 15 year old kid ❤ rest now Neal
As I am an amateur drummer & a professional performance fabricator & builder of course my favorite Rush song is Red Barchetta. I was lucky enough to see Rush 4 times.
Neil Peart created an orchestra of percussion. How many icons have played an instrument but have gone to compose some of the most memorable music to date? Mr Neil Peart is that icon. RIP
My very first concert ever was Rush Snakes & Arrows tour 2007 in Illinois, I was privileged enough to see him play, and they surprisingly came back around for a second go! I've always been very musically inclined, maybe not so much musically talented, but I'm still, to this day, very grateful I was allowed to experience the drum solos he brought. Of course Alex and Geddy were just as amazing, I will never forget those amazing concerts.
I saw RUSH in concert 18 times in my life, going way back. RIP Neil Peart !!! .. The GOAT of percussion ...
I saw Rush at least ten times live. They were memories I will never forget. Truly unforgettable. My favorite band.
Also, There is a documentary out there about DW with Neil Peart. He had ordered his touring set from DW and they go over what it took to build and deliver it. It's fascinating.
I’m jealous!
I saw Rush 9 times, including this tour. Neil never disappointed. He gave it his all every single night for more than 40 years.
Wow nice!!
Couple of answers.
You mentioned he must be tired, this was in the middle of a 3 hour concert. If you head down the Rush Rabbit hole, you'll find that while his solo is great, most songs are written at that level of quality, quantity and precision.
With regardeds to Metal in him, Rush had been seen as one of the godfathers of progressive metal. If you listen to their catalogue, they are a progressive band in that they progress throughout their 40 year, 19 album career together. As you listen to them to you'll say, oh that sounds like... and then you'll see that they were a few years ahead of that genre of rock.
All three members of Rush, Geddy Lee (lead vocals, bass, keys & peddles for synth and bass), Alex Lifeson (Lead acoustic, 12 string and 6 string guitar, mandolin & backing vocals) and Neil Peart (purcussion & lyrics) have been recognized as the best of their instruments at different times in their careers together as a 3 piece band.
The washers were a joke. Geddy decided to get rid of the Amps on stage and go through the house mix and speakers, but Alex wanted to keep his Marshall amp stack. To balance the stage, Geddy had the road crew put washers and dryers, vending machines, roticcerie chicken ovens etc behind him.
If you love drumming and want to see the band, watch YYZ: Rio, Xanadu: Exit stage left concert, then Tom Sawyer official video, Working Man - Live in Cleveland, The Weapon live... & La Villa Strangiato
Then you'll be ready for 2112, Camera Eye,
Wow thank you so much for that detailed comment David! Really appreciate that! Stay tuned in for more!
Not only was he tired, he was fighting the flu. This was Neil _off his game._
He was always very ferocious, hits those drums with intent to make them ring true as he could get them to go, I was surprised he lasted as long as he did.
He was 1 of the most phenomenal drummer i have ever seen he is a professor of the drums God Bless you Neil Peart and thank you for all your hard work and giving everyone a lesson on the drums RIP Neil Peart the legend of the drums
I love all rush songs "A passage to Bangkok", "The trees", "The Spirit of radio".. way too many songs to pick a favorite🔥🔥
Back in Oct of 2010, my friends and I were fortunate enough to see Professor Neil and his bandmates of Rush when they performed in West Palm Beach, Florida during their Time Machine tour. Neil did a similar drum solo during the concert.
🤘🏻🤘🏻
Saw Rush many times, I believe they were the best live band ever. All 3 excel in their talents. Neil always amazed me. Rush became part of me over the years like I didn't think possible.
🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻 Stay tuned in for more! 🤘🏻🤘🏻
I told my wife the other day that Alex is ranked as one of the greatest guitarist of all time but is still overshadowed by Geddy and Neil.
It's always particularly neat to watch drummers react to Neil's solo, because they see things from a different perspective than most of us and can appreciate it in different ways.
I’ve seen them live around 20 or 30 times. Always astounding. A 3 member band that blasted you with sound. Every concert was flawless. My dad was a drummer in the 60’s and said he was the most impressive drummer he’s ever seen.
I had the pleasure of attending every Rush concert in Toronto since 1984 until the very end. Neil's solo was always a highlight. His solo wasn't at the end of the show, it was usually in the middle and he'd still pound it out until the end of the night. I appreciated your reaction, keep up the great work, I'd suggest Rush's Working Man, live from Cleveland for you, it was their last song in their encore that night, shows their stamina.
Got to see Rush live several times over the last several decades. I am eternally grateful to have them in my life.
can we take a moment and be in awe at the section beginning at 3:12 - the limb independence required is nothing short of mind blowing.
I had the privilege of seeing this solo live along with the rest of the awesomeness that was a Rush concert.
We all flipped our shit when the kit spun, best drum solo ever.
It was the pleasure of my life to have seen Rush live 28 times and it got better and better each time! Neil was a god amongst mortals! Rest in Peace sir!
The first, and sadly the only time I saw Rush live was in 2012 in their Clockwork Angels tour. They played most of their great hits, but also played more of their 80's material in that tour, which I'm very fond of to this day. Their live performance was simply incredible. Neil's drum solos were fantastic and goes to show why he was called The Professor.
My personal favourite song from Rush is The Analog Kid, while my personal favourite album from Rush is Power Windows. Their career spanning 4 decades goes to show how resilient they were with music throughout the times, and how other artists and bands inspired their sounds throughout their career.
Neil was such a legendary percussionist, and not just a drummer, but he was also a genuine person and was mostly an introvert.
So grateful to see Rush in person, especially Neil.
Rest in peace.
Fortunate enough to see him and the other guys twice live. Incredible experience.
seen them a bunch of times but never met them. I did hang out with his best friend of 60 years, Brad, on new years. Super cool guy and very intelligent.
Very cool!!
Hi Colby- yeah i saw Rush live back in the 90s and he was incredible then......a Master just like he is now...No One will ever be like him or play like him.....the GOAT RIP Neil.....as far as my favorite song...there are many but the good ones are off Grace under pressure and Power Windows, Signals and many others, they are all great songs.
Neil was a master of timekeeping , he would have two or three different themes going , never heard a miss step ever , pure mastery , will be missed.
🤘🏻🙌🏻
Saw them twice here in AZ. Once on their snakes and arrows tour, i was a young kid then, maybe 8 or 9. I was young, didnt fully realize what i was seeing but i knew it was greatness. Saw them again on their time machine tour at 16ish and he played this infamous drum solo, came out of there a changed young man. Im eternally greatfull i got to witness the professors genius. All thanks to my pops for getting me into great music. Love ya dad
Very cool!!
He he he 😅 "that drum set looks very expensive" It's the finest, and they f*cking give it to him for free... You asked my favorite Rush song while I was commenting, ridiculously insane question. Gun at my head, have to go with La Villa Strangiato. Saw 27 live shows since you asked too... Wish I had seen 2700. ✌️ React to Neil Peart -Cottontail with the Buddy Rich Band. You'll p*ss your pants...
Was privileged to see RUSH live a few times. Fantastic live concerts! The master and professor of the percussions.
Neil had triggers rigged to play the jazz piece at the end of the drum solo. Look closing as he hits symbols and you’ll hear the horn section.
R.I.P. Professor❤
I’m jealous!!
Saw him live over 50 times. Never disappointed.
I saw Rush at Disneyland in about 1981 and was seated about 20 feet from Neil and his drums. It was an awesome experience. I was primarily a mallet percussionist but my friend who was a very serious drummer returned several nights in a row to watch the same performance.
Saw Rush in ‘04 in Tampa. Opened first set with spirit of the radio. Opened 2nd with Tom Sawyer. Incredible.
Saw them from the Moving Pictures Tour all the way through and had the pleasure of working the Power Windows Tour (4/20/86). Worked the load in, soundcheck, truss spot for the show and the load out. Actually got the opportunity to help the drum tech and handled Neil's drum kit. Then spent the rest of the afternoon setting up Blue Oyster Cult. Favorite Rush tune, Lakeside Park and the drum kit he is playing in the video costs more than your house. Favorite saying about Neil; Drummers use metronomes, metronomes use Neil Peart.
Very cool!!
Saw Rush open for Kiss, in 1975. I never missed a tour, from that day, forward. It was an incredible journey ✌🏼❤️
So cool!
He was involved in the building of that drumset.It's gold plated and it cost him more than one million dollars to build😮
I missed my high-school graduation and my girlfriend's junior prom (now my wife, who doesn't let me forget it) to see Rush concerts. Tells you all you need to know about how I feel about them I guess. :) Caught a t-shirt thrown out by Alex at two different back-to-back tours, and probably saw them over a dozen times throughout the decades. My older brother played 2112 for me when I was 8 and the rest was history. Bought my first album, of any band, when I was 9, and that album was Moving Pictures. Hard to pick a favorite album, let alone song, but MP is probably at the top.
Saw them 27+ times.
From A Farewell To Kings to R40. Amazing every time !!!
Nice!
Neal Peart ( peeert ) designed this kit himself as well as the individual drums. He hand picked all the material they are made of. The hardware is 24k good plated. Red Barchetta, then Limelight.
Seems VERY expensive and sounds amazing! Stay tuned in for more Kris!
I had the pleasure of seeing Rush 53 times including the final show at the Forum in LA.... Neil was always amazing and spot on.... Best live band ever, and I have been to over 300 concerts in my life. Look forward to more Rush reactions from you.
I attended the same high school as Neil. Saw him as a young drummer in the band JR Flood in St.Catharines and many times with RUSH. He's easily St.Catharines most famous home grown talent. There's now a beautiful monument of Neil at Lakeside park in Port Dalhousie.
I first seen Rush in 89, and many times in between. But taken my son son to his first Rush concert was so special to me. He was 5 years old, front row seats, and Alex Lifeson gave him a pick.
Nice!!
I saw Rush 13 times, twice (same tour) in the same year. The first time I saw them was in 1981. The last time was in 2015, their last tour. I would of loved to see them more after that but they didn't tour after the R40 Live Tour. Through the 2000's to the 2015 tour, Rush played 3 hour concerts and Neil's solo was in the middle of the show. He was a machine conditioned to play long sets. He was also in his mid 50s here. The horns you hear before the big band part was him playing with his left foot. The big band part was his tribute to Buddy Rich.
Nice!
Neil GOD of all Drums RIP brother and thank you for every RUSH concert i have been too !
Just watched this. I’m enjoying your videos. I did get to see Neil in Phoenix on this tour, and this is the solo he did. You probably know this now, but he was Canadian and played Sabian cymbals for the last several years of his career. Great channel you have. 👍🏼
It was VERY amazing seeing him live. I remember the concert I was at where I suddenly realized that he was a literal living legend and told my partner as much.
🤘🏻😎
Neil is commonly referred to as "your favorite drummer's favorite drummer." I really think he has serious contention for the greatest of all time. I saw Rush 5 times live and every one was an unforgettable experience. Each of them had a way of standing out that didn't squash the others. Their concerts were always beat for beat the same as the album and they always embellished to make their concerts memorable. Always with a touch of humor (yes that is a washer/dryer on stage) and always playing to the crowd for over 40 years. Concert footage from Rio must not be missed.
When you watch the video for Xanadu (would love to see a reaction), notice the kit and how much it has changed. These guys were truly a 3 piece orchestra. You really can't go wrong picking something from the rabbit hole to listen to. Thanks and enjoy!
Nice!! Thank you so much for sharing Corwin!
😂 lucky enough to have seen these guys around 15 times. From Hemispheres tour to thier last. And yet I still get goosebumps when I see him play.
Nice!
I first watched Neal Peart live in 1981, Moving Pictures Tour at The Forum in Ingelwood Ca. Then I watched Rush 6 consecutive albums concerts, Signals, Grace Under Pressure, Power Windows, Hold Your Fire, Presto and Roll The Bones.
I did go to there last concert R40 live which would be Neal "The Professors" last tour.
I was very fortunate to have seen him so many times.
Now best song, to hard to pick one! RIP NEAL PEART🙏
Thanks for the comment and watching!
I have seen Rush 8 times and they never disappoint they always put on a great show and then Neil Peart would put on his own show on the drums RIP Neil Peart the best drummer ever
I saw the professor perform many times but never enough. The best drummer gone to early. RIP Neil
My very first Concert was KISS with a small 3-piece band I'd never heard of called RUSH. August 1977. in the years since I've seen RUSH 37 times. Met the "Boys" in person 3 times. As a self taught, dyslexic Drummer, The Professor is with out a doubt my #1 influence. When Jan7 2020, my best friend called me, He's like "are you driving" I'm like "Yeah". He replied "I really need you to pull over, this is going to be rough"... Immediately my mind went to my Wife and 2 Boys, or 1 of His family. The saying goes "Do you remember where you were when . I was driving north toward Wichita, KS. I pulled over, let out a deep breathe and replied "What's up? is everyone alright?"
He's like We've been friends for going on 20 years. I called ~L and asked Her and She said she didn't have it in her to tell you".... Now I'm panicking... " WHAT!!?? Are they ok? WHAT!1?"
He cleared his throat and almost Whispered ">Neil Peart past this morning" ... Long pause, no comment from Me. "~R? Buddy you there?"
Longer pause. " Dude! talk to Me say SOMETHiNG!? Anything!"
I croaked out "thank you for calling to let me know. I love you like the family you are. I have 5 more hours of driving and i need to switch my play list and soak this in"... I'm not being over dramatic or anything. As Queensryche said ".. I feel like I've hit by a 10 ton, heavy thing" is the best descriptor of my state of mind. I queued up my dedicated RUSH Spotify playlist which, in and of itself is selected with purpose and reason. I spent the next 5.5 hours drumming on my Subaru's steering wheel through tears.
The greatest Drummer I've ever heard, known, and met. Neil, RIP joining your Wife and Daughter, which wrote, both lyrically and in book form, literally, many times. < bow> To The Professor. ~R.
Wow thanks so much for sharing!!!
I seen Rush 4 times. Every time was absolutely amazing!
I never get tired of see Neil's drum solo..
I never liked Rush until I was invited by a friend to go see them live. Wow!!! Musicianship extraordinaire. Bass awesome! Guitar awesome! Drums, GODLIKE. BEEN. Huge fan ever since.
You dont know how many times I have said to myself, what right do I have even walking by a drumset never mind owning one, thats what happens when I watch and listen to the master do his thing. My friends and I, growing up, would always say "he's not human, theres no way a mortal man can do that on a drum kit". I still get a bit emtional listening to Neil work the kit, he will be missed but NEVER forgotten, thank you for music Neil, RIP sir.
Great reaction!! I was fortunate to see Rush, on the Roll The Bones tour. Neil had his drum setup, configured in a cylinder, with each level/section, independent from the others. At one point, he spun the top section clockwise, the middle section counter-clockwise and hit every piece, as they rotated around him. That was something I'd never ever seen before...just God-like. I think that may have inspired him to expand his drum kit, into two full kits. Check out La Villa Strangiato (studio version) and analyze his style, from that time. See what you think.
Thank you Calvin!
I saw him live twice in my lifetime. Once in Oslo Spektrum 26th October 2007, second time in Sweden Rock Festival June 2013.
I was lucky enough to see Rush live 8 times beginning in 1981. And Neil Peart (pronunced Peer-t, not pert) is THE quintessential rock percussionist, although in this solo he showcased several styles of playing.
I did see this particular solo during the 30th anniversary tour (R30) in Milwaukee. At the time of this performance, Neil was about 53!! And his solo happened at about the 2.5 hour mark!
RIP Professor.... 🙏🥁🙏
🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
I saw Rush 3 times, one of those times was the tour this video was from. Amazing to see him (them) live! Musical genuis, master of his craft and a humble human being.... he is surely missed!
some random drummer: "I have the biggest drum set in the world!!!"
Neil Peart: "hold my beer..."
My favorite Rush song is tje Garden.. Seen the Band in Concert Many Many times.. So Happy when I became a parent to my only child and was able to spend time at their shows with Him. Memories that will last long after I will be gone.
Cool!
I did met Neil so many times in Toronto he as amazing person and friend ,got drum skin sing by hem from concert .
Colby, whenever the Professor sits down behind a kit, class is in session.
Thanks for the reaction. I saw them 7 times, I think. My visual memory sucks, so I've had to rely on ticket stubs, friends, etc, to figure it out!
Favourite songs:
Cygnus X-1, Books 1 & 2
Natural Science
Limelight
Spirit of Radio
Losing It
Subdivisions
The Garden
Red Barchetta
Analog Kid
Just FYI, Peart pronounced his name P-ear-T, not P-ur-T.
In other words, it rhymed with ear, steer, or beer - not dirt, shirt, or hurt.
Thanks for watching!
Sabian Paragon cymbals. Made for him. DW kit with 24k gold hardware. 23 inch bass drum. Roland V-Drums set in DW shells. Ive seen Rush 8 times and every show was amazing. Geddy used Dryers and vending machines because they ran his bass direct. What an amazing group. You should read Neil's books. He was a great writer.
Good to know!
I was listening to Rush's "Presto" album recently, and it sounds like elements from the first part of this drum solo were taken from the song "Scars". If you listen to the 3rd verse of the song you can hear the same tribal drums and African rhythm.
His kit: One of two kits that Neil Peart played on the R40 Live tour. Click to see the R40 Live Retro kit.
Drums: DW shells made from 1500-year-old Romanian River Oak in Dyed Black Pear finish
Electronic drums: Neil didn't use his trademark satellite electronics kit. This kit did include V-drum, Dauz, and KAT pedals
Cymbals: Brilliant finish Sabian Paragon; 14" Paragon Brilliant hi-hats (main) and 14" Artisan Brilliant hi-hats (x-hat); two new sizes introduced, 17" and 19"
Sticks: Pro-Mark 747 wood tip Neil Peart Autograph model (Oak)
Drums: DW shells made from Romanian bog oak in Dyed Black Pear finish
A. 6.5x14 NP Icon snare
B. 13x15 floor tom
C. 3x13 piccolo snare
D. 7x8 rack tom
E. 7x10 rack tom
F. 8x12 rack tom
G. 9x13 rack tom
H. 12x15 floor tom
I. 16x16 floor tom
J. 18x18 suspended floor tom
K. 16x23 bass drum with Kelly Shu miking system
Cymbals: Sabian Paragon with brilliant finish
1. 10" splash
2. 20" crash
3. 14" hi-hats
4. 17" crash
5. 10" splash
6. 16" crash
7. 22" ride
8. 8" splash
9. 14" Artisan hi-hats
10. 19" crash
11. 20" China
12. 20" Diamondback
13. 19" China
Electronics:
aa. Roland TD-30 trigger pads mounted in DW shells
bb. custom-built Dauz trigger pad (the "target" head is a Who reference).
The dryers are there because Geddy likes runs his bass through the house PA system and they put stuff over there to fill inthe space where his amp stack would be.
I saw RUSH every tour starting with Permanent Waves. Needless to say I'm a huge fan. Seeing them live is an experience.
Great vid brother. Peace
Saw rush over 30 time's in my life, and Everytime Neil.just got better and better until reaching what myself as a drummer would say is perfection!,there will Never be another professor!! rest in peace Mr.Peart, All of us back here on planet earth miss you, and by the way this Solo was performed in the middle of a 3hour concert with Neil having the Flu!!!,
Awesome!! Thanks for sharing!
Like they say, Neil was your favorite drummer's favorite Drummer!!
Saw them live many times and never left without a smile on my face!
I seen rush twice before he passed 😢 once in edmonton alberta for the clock work angels tour, and drove to Calgary to see the R40 concert !
Been a Rush fan since 79 have seen them many times but the best was taking my sons to their 1st Rush concert on the Snake & Arrows tour I can't wait to introduce my new grandson to their music
Too bad you can't take him to a show, but I'll bet that will be fun.
Very cool!
Canadian here ... only ever got to see them once live on the Clockwork Angels tour in Austin, TX. I've seen a thousand live performances over 40 years, and they are still head-and-above the best ever.
I saw them a few times and all 3 were masters of their instruments. Rush was a well oiled machine and there will never be another band like it, thanks for the reaction.
Thank you!
I got to see the Professor live in Porto Alegre in 2002. Now I can rest in peace