Today would have marked the 70th birthday of Rush drummer Neil Peart, unequivocally considered to be one of the best rhythm makers in all of music. Peart’s ability to pour powerful energy into complex and unusual meters is what defined his style, especially in a progressive rock outfit like Rush. With so many musically-trained listeners tuning into the Rush catalog, it’s no surprise that Peart is considered one of the best.
Influenced by hard rock drummers like Keith Moon and John Bonham, Peart descends from that tradition with an incredible stamina. He set himself apart, however, by leading his band through atypical time signatures, making it look easy with precision technique.
Of course, any Rush show would feature an opportunity for Peart to take center stage with a balls-to-the-wall drum solo. Nobody did it like Neil.
Watch these crazy drum solos below, and join us in wishing Neil Peart a happy birthday.
[Originally published 9/12/16]