The music world was dealt a crushing blow Friday, January 10th when it was announced the Rush drummer and lyricist Neil Peart had died of brain cancer at 67. Within minutes of the devastating news, tributes from fellow musicians across the sonic gamut started pouring in.
Related: Watch Stewart Copeland, Neil Peart & Danny Carey Jam Together
The first words of sympathy came from his brothers-in-arms in Rush, bassist Geddy Lee and guitarist Alex Lifeson, who broke the news on Twitter Thursday evening.
Neil Peart September 12, 1952 – January 7, 2020 pic.twitter.com/NivX2RhiB8
— Rush (@rushtheband) January 10, 2020
Before long, tributes to Neil Peart flooded the internet from every corner of the musical spectrum. From metal to hip-hop to even Canadian prime-minister Justin Trudeau who bid farewell to the Hamilton, Ontario-born drummer.
Neil Peart’s carefully-crafted, precision drumming and virtuosic solos compelled fans to air-drum along to his impeccable fills during his iconic live performances. A drummer’s drummer, Peart’s contributions to @rushtheband catapulted the band & prog rock itself to the next level pic.twitter.com/yfwxe9jTH2
— Rock Hall (@rockhall) January 11, 2020
We’ve lost a legend. But his influence and legacy will live on forever in the hearts of music lovers in Canada and around the world. RIP Neil Peart. 🇨🇦
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) January 11, 2020
We’re at a loss for words upon hearing of the passing of Neil Peart. A true legend. Rock out for him this weekend.https://t.co/AdHIpbpaby
— Umphrey’s McGee (@umphreysmcgee) January 10, 2020
At the end of a crazy @rockhall night in 2013 where @rushtheband & @PublicEnemyFTP were inducted. It was just myself & Neil PEart alone talkin & laughing low in relief the long night was over-a small table backstage sharing a unique moment without much word. Rest in Beats my man
— Chuck D (@MrChuckD) January 10, 2020
RIP Neil Peart pic.twitter.com/PxNZ3W5WSs
— Foo Fighters (@foofighters) January 10, 2020
I just heard about Neil Peart passing. I feel real bad about this – he was way too young. Neil was one of the great drummers and he’ll be missed. Love & mercy to Neil’s family.
– Brian pic.twitter.com/T5qjECWX1W— Brian Wilson (@BrianWilsonLive) January 10, 2020
Another family member gone pic.twitter.com/3NMWH8AXyP
— Sebastian Bach (@sebastianbach) January 10, 2020
This post will be updated as more Neil Peart tributes pour in.