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Was Rush better than the Beatles?

Brian Epstein, The Beatles manager, said back in '63 or '64 people would know them 50 or 100 years from now?

He wasn't the only one to say that way back and he was spot on.

No one has ever said that about another band, and more than likely never will.
 
Rush, a Canadian rock band formed in 1968, is renowned for its virtuosic musicianship, intricate compositions, and thought-provoking lyrics. Comprising guitarist Alex Lifeson, bassist and vocalist Geddy Lee, and drummer Neil Peart, Rush rose to prominence in the 1970s and became one of the most influential and enduring bands in the history of rock music. In this narrative, we will explore the journey of Rush, from its humble beginnings in suburban Toronto to its legendary status as pioneers of progressive rock.

**Formation and Early Years**: Rush was formed in the Toronto suburb of Willowdale by Lifeson, Lee, and original drummer John Rutsey. Initially performing as a cover band, Rush quickly gained a following in the local music scene with their electrifying live performances and dynamic sound. In 1974, the band released its self-titled debut album, which showcased their raw energy and musicianship, laying the foundation for their future success.

**Breakthrough with "2112"**: It was Rush's fourth studio album, "2112," released in 1976, that catapulted the band to international fame. The album's ambitious title track, a 20-minute epic that told the story of a dystopian future, showcased Rush's progressive rock leanings and established them as a force to be reckoned with in the genre. "2112" marked a turning point in Rush's career, solidifying their reputation as visionary musicians and setting the stage for their subsequent success.

**Musical Evolution and Experimentation**: Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Rush continued to push the boundaries of rock music, experimenting with complex time signatures, intricate arrangements, and unconventional song structures. Albums like "A Farewell to Kings," "Hemispheres," and "Permanent Waves" showcased the band's evolving sound, blending elements of hard rock, heavy metal, and progressive rock into a unique and unmistakable style. Rush's virtuosic musicianship and technical prowess set them apart from their peers, earning them a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.

**Commercial Success and Mainstream Recognition**: In the early 1980s, Rush achieved mainstream success with albums like "Moving Pictures" and "Signals," which produced hit singles such as "Tom Sawyer" and "Subdivisions." These albums saw Rush embracing a more accessible sound while retaining their signature complexity and depth, appealing to a broader audience without compromising their artistic integrity. The band's innovative music videos and elaborate stage productions further cemented their status as one of the biggest bands in rock music.

**Tragedy and Resilience**: In 1997, tragedy struck when Neil Peart's daughter and wife both died within a year of each other. Devastated by the loss, Peart took a hiatus from the band, and Rush faced uncertainty about its future. However, after a period of introspection and healing, Peart returned to the band, and Rush resumed recording and touring with renewed vigor. The band's resilience in the face of adversity further endeared them to fans and solidified their bond as a creative force.

**Later Years and Legacy**: In the 2000s and 2010s, Rush continued to release albums and tour extensively, maintaining their status as one of the most beloved and respected bands in rock music. Albums like "Vapor Trails," "Snakes & Arrows," and "Clockwork Angels" showcased Rush's continued musical evolution and lyrical depth, earning them critical acclaim and reaffirming their relevance in the modern music landscape. In 2018, Rush announced their retirement from touring, marking the end of an era for the band. Despite this, Rush's legacy lives on through their timeless music, which continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.

**Influence and Impact**: Rush's influence on the world of rock music cannot be overstated. Their innovative approach to songwriting, technical proficiency, and boundary-pushing experimentation paved the way for countless bands and artists across genres. From progressive rock and heavy metal to alternative and indie rock, Rush's impact can be heard in the music of bands like Dream Theater, Tool, and Muse, who cite Rush as a major influence on their own careers.

**Recognition and Awards**: Over the course of their illustrious career, Rush received numerous awards and accolades, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013. The band's enduring popularity and cultural significance were further cemented by their dedicated fan base, who affectionately refer to themselves as "Rushians" and continue to celebrate the band's music and legacy to this day.

**Conclusion**: Rush's journey from suburban Toronto to international stardom is a testament to the power of creativity, perseverance, and artistic vision. As pioneers of progressive rock, Rush pushed the boundaries of what was possible in rock music, inspiring generations of musicians and leaving an indelible mark on the world of music. Though their touring days may be behind them, Rush's legacy lives on through their timeless music, which continues to captivate and inspire listeners around the globe.
 
Rush, a Canadian rock band formed in 1968, is renowned for its virtuosic musicianship, intricate compositions, and thought-provoking lyrics. Comprising guitarist Alex Lifeson, bassist and vocalist Geddy Lee, and drummer Neil Peart, Rush rose to prominence in the 1970s and became one of the most influential and enduring bands in the history of rock music. In this narrative, we will explore the journey of Rush, from its humble beginnings in suburban Toronto to its legendary status as pioneers of progressive rock.

**Formation and Early Years**: Rush was formed in the Toronto suburb of Willowdale by Lifeson, Lee, and original drummer John Rutsey. Initially performing as a cover band, Rush quickly gained a following in the local music scene with their electrifying live performances and dynamic sound. In 1974, the band released its self-titled debut album, which showcased their raw energy and musicianship, laying the foundation for their future success.

**Breakthrough with "2112"**: It was Rush's fourth studio album, "2112," released in 1976, that catapulted the band to international fame. The album's ambitious title track, a 20-minute epic that told the story of a dystopian future, showcased Rush's progressive rock leanings and established them as a force to be reckoned with in the genre. "2112" marked a turning point in Rush's career, solidifying their reputation as visionary musicians and setting the stage for their subsequent success.

**Musical Evolution and Experimentation**: Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Rush continued to push the boundaries of rock music, experimenting with complex time signatures, intricate arrangements, and unconventional song structures. Albums like "A Farewell to Kings," "Hemispheres," and "Permanent Waves" showcased the band's evolving sound, blending elements of hard rock, heavy metal, and progressive rock into a unique and unmistakable style. Rush's virtuosic musicianship and technical prowess set them apart from their peers, earning them a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.

**Commercial Success and Mainstream Recognition**: In the early 1980s, Rush achieved mainstream success with albums like "Moving Pictures" and "Signals," which produced hit singles such as "Tom Sawyer" and "Subdivisions." These albums saw Rush embracing a more accessible sound while retaining their signature complexity and depth, appealing to a broader audience without compromising their artistic integrity. The band's innovative music videos and elaborate stage productions further cemented their status as one of the biggest bands in rock music.

**Tragedy and Resilience**: In 1997, tragedy struck when Neil Peart's daughter and wife both died within a year of each other. Devastated by the loss, Peart took a hiatus from the band, and Rush faced uncertainty about its future. However, after a period of introspection and healing, Peart returned to the band, and Rush resumed recording and touring with renewed vigor. The band's resilience in the face of adversity further endeared them to fans and solidified their bond as a creative force.

**Later Years and Legacy**: In the 2000s and 2010s, Rush continued to release albums and tour extensively, maintaining their status as one of the most beloved and respected bands in rock music. Albums like "Vapor Trails," "Snakes & Arrows," and "Clockwork Angels" showcased Rush's continued musical evolution and lyrical depth, earning them critical acclaim and reaffirming their relevance in the modern music landscape. In 2018, Rush announced their retirement from touring, marking the end of an era for the band. Despite this, Rush's legacy lives on through their timeless music, which continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.

**Influence and Impact**: Rush's influence on the world of rock music cannot be overstated. Their innovative approach to songwriting, technical proficiency, and boundary-pushing experimentation paved the way for countless bands and artists across genres. From progressive rock and heavy metal to alternative and indie rock, Rush's impact can be heard in the music of bands like Dream Theater, Tool, and Muse, who cite Rush as a major influence on their own careers.

**Recognition and Awards**: Over the course of their illustrious career, Rush received numerous awards and accolades, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013. The band's enduring popularity and cultural significance were further cemented by their dedicated fan base, who affectionately refer to themselves as "Rushians" and continue to celebrate the band's music and legacy to this day.

**Conclusion**: Rush's journey from suburban Toronto to international stardom is a testament to the power of creativity, perseverance, and artistic vision. As pioneers of progressive rock, Rush pushed the boundaries of what was possible in rock music, inspiring generations of musicians and leaving an indelible mark on the world of music. Though their touring days may be behind them, Rush's legacy lives on through their timeless music, which continues to captivate and inspire listeners around the globe.
Lol. Not even in the same stratosphere as the fabs.
 
He needs to stop sniffing glue
GIF by Giphy QA
 
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