Rush Guitarist Alex Lifeson Says Drummers Asked To Audition For Band “Within Minutes” Of News Of Neil Peart’s Passing

In a recent interview with Q104.3, Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson shared his surprise over the swift influx of drummers seeking to audition for the band following the passing of their esteemed drummer, Neil Peart, on January 7, 2020. Lifeson recounted receiving numerous emails within minutes of the announcement, with drummers eager to join Rush without considering the profound legacy Peart left after four decades with the band. He said:

“After Neil passed, it didn’t take more than a few minutes before we started getting emails from all kinds of drummers who wanted to audition for the band, thinking that we were just gonna replace somebody that we played with for 40 years who wrote all the lyrics for our music. I don’t know what some of these people were thinking.”

Lifeson also reflected on his close relationship with bassist Geddy Lee, mentioning their frequent interactions beyond the band’s music:

“I talk to him—I must talk to him every day. We get together for dinner, we play tennis, we’re doing all this charity work together. He’s my best bud.”

Expressing his ongoing passion for music, Lifeson added:

“I love being a musician. I love playing guitar. I love playing guitar so much. It’s not just a vehicle for making a living. It’s me. It’s at the core of my essence.”

You can check out the full interview below.

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