Rush was a Canadian rock band formed in Toronto in 1968, consisting of guitarist Alex Lifeson, bassist and vocalist Geddy Lee, and drummer and lyricist Neil Peart. Known for their virtuosic musicianship, complex compositions, and thought-provoking lyrics, Rush became one of the most influential and enduring bands in the history of rock music.
Rush’s early albums, such as “Rush” (1974) and “Fly by Night” (1975), featured a hard rock sound influenced by bands like Led Zeppelin and Cream. However, it was with the release of their breakthrough album “2112” in 1976 that Rush began to establish their signature style, characterized by intricate instrumentals, philosophical lyrics, and extended song structures.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Rush released a string of critically acclaimed albums, including “A Farewell to Kings” (1977), “Hemispheres” (1978), and “Moving Pictures” (1981), which featured some of their most iconic songs like “Tom Sawyer” and “The Spirit of Radio.” Their music often explored themes of science fiction, fantasy, and individualism, earning them a dedicated fanbase known as “Rushians.”
In addition to their studio albums, Rush was renowned for their electrifying live performances, with Lifeson’s intricate guitar work, Lee’s distinctive vocals and bass playing, and Peart’s virtuosic drumming captivating audiences around the world.
Rush continued to evolve musically over the years, exploring new sounds and incorporating elements of synthesizers and electronic effects into their music. Despite their diverse musical experimentation, Rush remained true to their progressive rock roots, earning them widespread respect and admiration from both fans and critics alike.
In 2018, after over four decades of recording and touring, Rush officially announced their retirement from touring due to Peart’s health issues. Peart passed away in January 2020, marking the end of an era for the band. However, Rush’s legacy as one of the greatest and most influential rock bands of all time continues to live on through their timeless music and devoted fanbase.
1. Tom Sawyer
“Tom Sawyer” is a legendary rock song by the Canadian band Rush, released on their 1981 album “Moving Pictures.” This iconic track is widely regarded as one of Rush’s signature songs and has become a staple of classic rock radio.
“Tom Sawyer” is characterized by its driving rhythm, intricate instrumentation, and thought-provoking lyrics. The song features Geddy Lee’s dynamic bassline, Alex Lifeson’s electrifying guitar riffs, and Neil Peart’s virtuosic drumming, creating a powerful and mesmerizing sonic landscape.
Lyrically, “Tom Sawyer” explores themes of individualism, adventure, and the pursuit of freedom. The lyrics, penned by Neil Peart, depict a rebellious and independent protagonist who refuses to conform to societal norms and instead seeks to chart his own path in life.
The song’s memorable chorus, with its anthemic refrain of “Today’s Tom Sawyer, mean, mean pride,” has become synonymous with the spirit of defiance and self-determination, resonating with listeners of all ages.
“Tom Sawyer” received widespread acclaim upon its release and remains one of Rush’s most beloved and enduring songs. Its innovative blend of rock, progressive, and new wave elements, combined with its timeless message of individuality and freedom, has cemented its status as a classic of the rock genre.
Decades after its release, “Tom Sawyer” continues to captivate audiences with its electrifying energy and profound lyrics, solidifying its place as one of the greatest rock songs of all time.
2. The Spirit of Radio
“The Spirit of Radio” is a song by the Canadian rock band Rush, released in 1980 on their album “Permanent Waves.” It’s one of the band’s most iconic and enduring songs, known for its energetic guitar riff, dynamic drumming, and thought-provoking lyrics.
The song’s lyrics reflect on the role of radio in shaping popular culture and the power of music to inspire and uplift. Lines like “All this machinery making modern music can still be open-hearted” celebrate the diversity and innovation in music, while also acknowledging the commercialization and commodification of the art form.
“The Spirit of Radio” features complex instrumental arrangements, including intricate guitar work by Alex Lifeson, dynamic drumming by Neil Peart, and Geddy Lee’s distinctive vocals and bass lines. The song’s catchy melody and anthemic chorus make it a favorite among fans of progressive rock and radio enthusiasts alike.
“The Spirit of Radio” became a hit for Rush and remains one of their most beloved songs. Its timeless message and dynamic musicality continue to resonate with listeners, cementing its status as a classic of rock music.
3. Closer to the Heart
“Closer to the Heart” is a timeless rock anthem by Rush, released on their 1977 album “A Farewell to Kings.” This uplifting and melodic track stands out for its memorable guitar riff, catchy chorus, and thought-provoking lyrics.
Written by Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Neil Peart, “Closer to the Heart” is a tribute to the importance of following one’s passions and living life with purpose. The song’s lyrics encourage listeners to embrace authenticity, pursue their dreams, and make meaningful connections with others.
Musically, “Closer to the Heart” features Geddy Lee’s distinctive vocals, Alex Lifeson’s emotive guitar work, and Neil Peart’s dynamic drumming, creating a rich and layered sound that is both powerful and emotive.
The song’s chorus, with its anthemic refrain of “And the men who hold high places, must be the ones who start, to mold a new reality, closer to the heart,” has become iconic, resonating with audiences around the world and inspiring generations of listeners.
“Closer to the Heart” received widespread acclaim upon its release and remains one of Rush’s most beloved and enduring songs. Its universal message of hope, resilience, and the pursuit of authenticity continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, solidifying its place as a classic of the rock genre.
Decades after its release, “Closer to the Heart” remains a timeless anthem, cherished by fans for its inspiring lyrics, unforgettable melody, and powerful message of self-discovery and personal growth.
4. Limelight
“Limelight” is a song by the Canadian rock band Rush, released in 1981 on their album “Moving Pictures.” It’s one of the band’s most well-known and beloved songs, characterized by its introspective lyrics, intricate instrumental passages, and Geddy Lee’s emotive vocals.
The song’s lyrics reflect on the challenges of fame and the pressures of living life in the public eye. Lines like “All the world’s indeed a stage, and we are merely players” explore the theme of the individual’s struggle to maintain authenticity and identity amidst the demands of celebrity.
“Limelight” features complex instrumental arrangements, including Alex Lifeson’s melodic guitar work, Neil Peart’s intricate drumming, and Geddy Lee’s dynamic bass lines and vocal performance. The song builds to a powerful climax, with a memorable guitar solo and emotive vocal delivery.
“Limelight” became a hit for Rush and remains one of their most enduring songs. Its introspective lyrics and dynamic musicality continue to resonate with listeners, making it a staple of classic rock radio and a favorite among fans of the band.
5. Subdivisions
“Subdivisions” is a song by the Canadian rock band Rush, released in 1982 on their album “Signals.” It’s one of the band’s most popular and enduring songs, known for its introspective lyrics and intricate musical composition.
The song’s lyrics explore themes of conformity, alienation, and the search for individuality in suburban life. Lines like “In the high school halls, in the shopping malls, conform or be cast out” reflect on the pressures to fit in and the challenges of finding one’s place in a society that values uniformity.
“Subdivisions” features complex instrumental arrangements, including Geddy Lee’s melodic bass lines, Alex Lifeson’s atmospheric guitar work, and Neil Peart’s dynamic drumming. The song’s shifting time signatures and dynamic shifts in tempo create a sense of tension and urgency that mirrors the themes of the lyrics.
“Subdivisions” became a hit for Rush and remains one of their most beloved songs. Its thought-provoking lyrics and intricate musicality continue to resonate with listeners, making it a favorite among fans of the band and a staple of classic rock radio.
6. Red Barchetta
“Red Barchetta” is a dynamic and imaginative song by Rush, featured on their 1981 album “Moving Pictures.” This track stands out for its exhilarating tempo, intricate instrumentation, and captivating storytelling.
Written by Neil Peart, the song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a futuristic world where driving gasoline-powered vehicles is outlawed. The protagonist of the song defies these restrictions by secretly driving his uncle’s vintage red Barchetta sports car, evoking a sense of freedom and rebellion.
Musically, “Red Barchetta” features Geddy Lee’s driving bassline, Alex Lifeson’s electrifying guitar riffs, and Neil Peart’s intricate drumming, creating a dynamic and exhilarating sonic landscape that perfectly complements the song’s narrative.
The song’s chorus, with its anthemic refrain of “Wind in my hair, shifting and drifting, mechanical music, adrenaline surge,” captures the thrill of the protagonist’s clandestine joyride, immersing listeners in the excitement and adventure of the story.
“Red Barchetta” received widespread acclaim upon its release and remains one of Rush’s most beloved and enduring songs. Its imaginative lyrics, coupled with its dynamic musical arrangement, have solidified its status as a classic of the progressive rock genre.
Decades after its release, “Red Barchetta” continues to captivate audiences with its imaginative storytelling, exhilarating energy, and timeless appeal. It stands as a testament to Rush’s creativity and innovation, and remains a favorite among fans of the band and the rock genre as a whole.
7. 2112
“2112” is a song by Rush, released as the title track of their 1976 album “2112.” It’s a monumental piece of music, often regarded as one of the band’s masterpieces and a landmark in progressive rock.
The song is divided into several sections and tells a complex science fiction story set in the year 2112. In a dystopian future where creativity and individuality are suppressed, a young man discovers an ancient guitar and learns to play it, only to have his discovery rejected by the ruling Priests who control society. The song explores themes of individualism, artistic freedom, and rebellion against oppressive authority.
“2112” features intricate instrumental passages, complex time signatures, and virtuosic performances by all three members of Rush: Geddy Lee on bass and vocals, Alex Lifeson on guitar, and Neil Peart on drums. The song builds to a powerful climax, with a memorable guitar solo and a dramatic conclusion.
“2112” has become one of Rush’s most iconic songs and a favorite among fans of progressive rock. Its epic scale, thought-provoking lyrics, and virtuoso musicianship have cemented its status as a classic of the genre, and it continues to be celebrated as one of Rush’s greatest achievements.
8. Freewill
“Freewill” is a philosophical and introspective song by Rush, released on their 1980 album “Permanent Waves.” This track is characterized by its intricate instrumentation, thought-provoking lyrics, and powerful message about the nature of free will and personal responsibility.
Written by Neil Peart, the song’s lyrics explore the concept of individual agency and the choices we make in life. Peart delves into existential questions about fate, morality, and the consequences of our actions, encouraging listeners to embrace their autonomy and take ownership of their decisions.
Musically, “Freewill” features Geddy Lee’s dynamic bassline, Alex Lifeson’s electrifying guitar work, and Neil Peart’s virtuosic drumming, creating a rich and layered sound that builds in intensity as the song progresses. The song’s complex arrangements and shifting time signatures showcase Rush’s musical prowess and innovative approach to rock music.
The song’s chorus, with its powerful refrain of “If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice,” serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of active decision-making and the consequences of indecision.
“Freewill” has become one of Rush’s most enduring and beloved songs, praised for its thought-provoking lyrics, dynamic instrumentation, and timeless message. Its exploration of existential themes and philosophical concepts has resonated with audiences around the world, solidifying its place as a classic of the progressive rock genre.
Decades after its release, “Freewill” continues to captivate listeners with its powerful message of personal agency and individual responsibility, making it a favorite among fans of Rush and rock music enthusiasts alike.
9. Working Man
“Working Man” is a song by Rush, released on their self-titled debut album in 1974. It’s one of the band’s early hits and a staple of their live performances.
The song’s lyrics reflect on the struggles of blue-collar workers and the desire for freedom from the daily grind. Lines like “I get up at seven, yeah, and I go to work at nine” capture the routine and monotony of working life, while the chorus expresses the longing for escape: “I guess that’s why they call me the Working Man, I guess that’s what I am.”
“Working Man” features a bluesy guitar riff and powerful vocal performance by Geddy Lee, along with Alex Lifeson’s dynamic guitar work and Neil Peart’s solid drumming. The song’s energetic groove and relatable lyrics struck a chord with audiences, helping to establish Rush as a force to be reckoned with in the world of rock music.
“Working Man” remains a favorite among Rush fans and is often performed as an encore at their concerts. Its anthemic chorus and timeless message continue to resonate with listeners, making it a classic of the rock genre.
10. The Trees
“The Trees” is a captivating song by Rush, featured on their 1978 album “Hemispheres.” This track is renowned for its intricate instrumentation, thought-provoking lyrics, and allegorical storytelling.
Written by Neil Peart, the song’s lyrics paint a metaphorical tale set in a forest where maple trees and oak trees vie for dominance. Through this allegory, Peart explores themes of equality, individualism, and the struggle for power.
Musically, “The Trees” features Geddy Lee’s dynamic bassline, Alex Lifeson’s atmospheric guitar work, and Neil Peart’s complex drum patterns, creating a lush and immersive sonic landscape that perfectly complements the song’s narrative.
The song’s chorus, with its anthemic refrain of “So the maples formed a union, and demanded equal rights, the oaks are just too greedy, we will make them give us light,” serves as a powerful commentary on societal inequality and the pursuit of justice.
“The Trees” received widespread acclaim upon its release and remains one of Rush’s most beloved and enduring songs. Its allegorical storytelling, coupled with its dynamic musical arrangement, has solidified its status as a classic of the progressive rock genre.
Decades after its release, “The Trees” continues to resonate with audiences, serving as a poignant reminder of the importance of tolerance, empathy, and the pursuit of equality. It stands as a testament to Rush’s creativity and musical innovation, and remains a favorite among fans of the band and progressive rock enthusiasts alike.
Edward Tomlin 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.
