rush

Rush is a Canadian rock band formed in 1968 in Toronto. The original lineup featured Geddy Lee (vocals, bass, keyboards), Alex Lifeson (guitar), and John Rutsey (drums). Rutsey left in 1974 and was replaced by Neil Peart, whose arrival established the band’s most enduring lineup. Rush released its self-titled debut in 1974, but achieved greater success after Peart joined, moving the group toward a more complex, progressive rock sound.

The band became known for elaborate compositions, technical proficiency, and lyrics often drawing on science fiction and fantasy themes. Their early work blended hard rock with longer, multi-part suites, as heard on 2112 (1976), A Farewell to Kings (1977), and Hemispheres (1978). Moving Pictures (1981) brought broader commercial success and included enduring tracks such as Tom Sawyer and Limelight, helping to define Rush’s mainstream appeal while maintaining their progressive edge.

Rush has sold more than 40 million records worldwide and earned multiple Juno Awards. The band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013. They continued to release and tour through the 2010s, most notably with the Clockwork Angels material and tour (2012–2015). Drummer Neil Peart died in 2020, after which the surviving members stated they did not plan to continue the Rush name. The group’s influence persists in the domains of progressive and hard rock, noted for its musicianship, conceptual albums, and distinctive blend of rock and complex arrangements.