As one of the most influential bands in the history of progressive rock, Rush has garnered a massive following over the course of their 40-plus year career. With their intricate musicianship, complex time signatures, and thought-provoking lyrics, the Canadian trio has produced a vast catalog of beloved songs that have stood the test of time. From their early days as a power trio to their later experiments with synths and electronic sounds, Rush’s music has always been a journey of exploration and creativity. In this article, we will be taking a closer look at the 10 best Rush songs of all time.
We will delve into the band’s most iconic tracks, exploring the intricacies of their compositions and analyzing the lyrical themes that have made them so enduring. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Rush or just discovering their music for the first time, this list is sure to be an entertaining and informative guide to some of the band’s most beloved works. So sit back, relax, and prepare to take a journey through the best of Rush’s discography.
1. Subdivisions
“Subdivisions” is a classic Rush track that was released in 1982 on their album “Signals”. It has since become one of their most recognizable and beloved songs, with its catchy synth riff and thought-provoking lyrics about the social pressures of conforming to suburban life. The song’s theme of isolation and disillusionment resonated with many listeners, particularly those who felt like outsiders in their own communities. The complex time signatures and intricate musicianship that Rush is known for are on full display in “Subdivisions”, with each member of the band shining in their own right. With its powerful message and unforgettable melodies, “Subdivisions” remains a standout track in Rush’s extensive discography and continues to inspire and resonate with listeners to this day.
2. Tom Sawyer
“Tom Sawyer” is one of the most iconic songs in Rush’s discography, known for its driving guitar riffs, catchy chorus, and captivating lyrics. Released on their 1981 album “Moving Pictures”, the song tells the story of the titular character and his rebellious spirit, with lyrics that celebrate individuality and nonconformity. The track’s infectious energy and technical musicianship have made it a fan favorite and a staple of rock radio for decades. Its use of synthesizers and electronic drums also helped to define the sound of 80s rock, cementing Rush’s influence on the genre. “Tom Sawyer” continues to be one of the most recognizable and beloved songs in the band’s catalog, and its legacy as a classic rock anthem shows no signs of fading any time soon.
3. New World Man
“New World Man” is a standout track from Rush’s 1982 album “Signals”. With its upbeat rhythm, catchy melody, and thought-provoking lyrics, the song is a testament to the band’s versatility and range as musicians. The track’s driving bass line and intricate guitar work give it a distinct energy that sets it apart from other songs in Rush’s catalog. Lyrically, “New World Man” explores themes of change, progress, and the pursuit of personal freedom in the face of a rapidly changing world. Its message of resilience and determination has resonated with listeners for decades, making it a fan favorite and a staple of classic rock radio. With its timeless appeal and powerful message, “New World Man” remains a testament to Rush’s enduring legacy as one of the most influential bands in rock history.
4. The Spirit of Radio
“The Spirit of Radio” is a classic rock anthem that was released by Rush in 1980 on their album “Permanent Waves”. With its driving guitar riffs, catchy chorus, and thought-provoking lyrics, the song became an instant hit and has since become one of the band’s most beloved tracks. Lyrically, “The Spirit of Radio” celebrates the power of music to inspire and unite people, while also acknowledging the commercial pressures of the music industry. Its use of radio as a metaphor for the music industry resonated with listeners, particularly those who felt like the authenticity of rock music was being diluted by commercial interests. With its powerful message and infectious energy, “The Spirit of Radio” remains a testament to Rush’s legacy as one of the most influential bands in rock history.
5. Time Stand Still
“Time Stand Still” is a poignant ballad that showcases a softer side of Rush’s music. The song was released on their 1987 album “Hold Your Fire” and features guest vocals from singer Aimee Mann. The track’s lush instrumentation and emotional lyrics make it a standout in the band’s discography. Lyrically, “Time Stand Still” explores the fleeting nature of time and the importance of cherishing life’s precious moments. The song’s message of living in the present and holding on to memories that matter has resonated with fans for decades. With its haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Time Stand Still” is a testament to Rush’s ability to create music that is both thought-provoking and deeply moving.
6. Roll the Bones
“Roll the Bones” is a high-energy rock track that was released by Rush in 1991 on their album of the same name. The song features a driving rhythm, infectious guitar riffs, and a catchy chorus that has made it a fan favorite. Lyrically, “Roll the Bones” explores the theme of taking risks and embracing uncertainty in life. The song’s message of living life to the fullest and not being afraid to take chances has resonated with listeners, making it a popular motivational anthem. The track’s use of rap-inspired vocals and electronic sounds also helped to push the boundaries of Rush’s sound, cementing their status as innovators in the rock genre. With its catchy hooks and powerful message, “Roll the Bones” remains a standout track in Rush’s extensive discography.
7. The Big Money
“The Big Money” is an upbeat and energetic rock track that was released by Rush in 1985 on their album “Power Windows”. With its driving rhythm, catchy chorus, and complex guitar work, the song showcases the band’s technical prowess and their ability to create music that is both accessible and sophisticated. Lyrically, “The Big Money” explores the theme of the pursuit of wealth and the dangers of materialism. The song’s message of the importance of staying true to oneself and not being defined by one’s wealth or status has resonated with fans for decades. With its infectious energy and powerful message, “The Big Money” remains a standout track in Rush’s extensive discography and a testament to their enduring legacy as one of the most influential bands in rock history.
8. Show Don’t Tell
“Show Don’t Tell” is a powerful and dynamic rock track that was released by Rush in 1989 on their album “Presto”. With its driving rhythm, complex guitar work, and thought-provoking lyrics, the song showcases the band’s technical and artistic capabilities. Lyrically, “Show Don’t Tell” explores the theme of communication and the importance of actions speaking louder than words. The song’s message of the need for honesty and authenticity in personal relationships and society at large has resonated with fans for decades. With its intricate musicianship and powerful message, “Show Don’t Tell” remains a standout track in Rush’s extensive discography and a testament to their enduring legacy as one of the most influential bands in rock history.
9. Ghost of a Chance
“Ghost of a Chance” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that was released by Rush in 1991 on their album “Roll the Bones”. The song features a lush and melodic sound, with Alex Lifeson’s guitar work and Geddy Lee’s vocals providing a deeply emotional experience for the listener. Lyrically, “Ghost of a Chance” explores the theme of lost love and the feelings of regret and longing that come with it. The song’s message of holding on to hope and the possibility of reconciliation has resonated with fans for decades. With its powerful emotional impact and memorable melody, “Ghost of a Chance” is a testament to Rush’s ability to create music that is both deeply moving and musically sophisticated, cementing their status as one of the most important bands in rock history.
10. Limelight
“Limelight” is a classic Rush track that was released in 1981 on their album “Moving Pictures”. The song features a memorable guitar riff, powerful vocals, and intricate musicianship that have made it a fan favorite and a staple of rock radio. Lyrically, “Limelight” explores the theme of fame and the pressures that come with it. The song’s message of the importance of staying true to oneself and not being defined by one’s public persona has resonated with fans for decades. With its catchy hooks and powerful message, “Limelight” remains a standout track in Rush’s extensive discography and a testament to their enduring legacy as one of the most influential bands in rock history.
Darren Jamison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
