RUSH DRUMMER NEIL PEART SAYS HE WILL BE RETIRING FROM THE MUSIC SCENE
After a series of reports on his physical issues, Rush drummer Neil Peart said that he is retiring from music.
The band have recently wrapped up the R40 tour, with several sources citing Mr. Peart’s health and his struggle with chronic tendonitis as the top factor behind the decision.
Neil tells Drumhead Magazine, “Lately Olivia [Louise, Neil’s daughter] has been introducing me to new friends at school as ‘My dad – he’s a retired drummer.’ True to say, funny to hear.
And it does not pain me to realize that, like all athletes, there comes a time to… take yourself out of the game. I would rather set it aside then face the predicament described in our song Losing It.'”
Bassist/vocalist Geddy Lee previously said about the possibility of Rush touring again, “It doesn’t look good.”
[Dana’s note: As always, thank you to Todd for passing this along.]
additional source: ultimate-guitar.com
At least he’s going out on top. The R40 tour is without a doubt the best concert I saw this year and one of the best I’ve seen in years.
Neil Peart is in a league of his own. Of the thousands of very talented drummers in this world no one will ever come close to his sound. We were lucky to get him back after his daughter died. An incredible legacy of work in studio & live albums at our fingertips. Cheers to an absolutely brilliant career in music Mr. Peart. Happy trails to you Sir
The Professor on the Drums!!! I hope he doesn’t fade into obscurity, but he deserves time out from the Limelight and enjoy his second chance at a family. I hope he will continue to up date his personal website.
No one will ever fill his shoes, EVER!
He looks in great shape, and I wish I looked that good at my current age 45. He’s a lucky man to say “I’m Retired”. I bet I will be 75 and still working, if I haven’t died by then. Congratulations Neil, (as if you’re reading this) on a great career and I wish you peace and tranquility during your remaining years on planet earth.
I have so much respect for these guys. To be able to stay together for this long, and maintain their sense of humor in this crazy business is impressive. Also, as a 15 year old, the first time I heard “Tom Sawyer” cranked up, my head nearly exploded, and I’ve liked them ever since.
T-
I, too, was 15 years old myself when I first heard Tom Sawyer and the entire Moving Pictures album. Coincidently, it was also the first time I’d heard RUSH. What an incredible sound that was penetrating my ears and mind. I loved how Camera Eye and blended into Witch Hunt, so ethereal. Saw the Time Machine Tour three times, I love the album so much. Make me proud to be Canadian.