Photo via Rush on FB
Still reeling from the January 2020 death of bandmate Neil Peart, Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson has discussed his recent trouble finding joy in music.
“It’s been difficult,” the guitarist recently said on Talkin’ Golf. “After Neil passed in January, I’ve played very little guitar. I just don’t feel inspired and motivated.”
Also speaking on behalf of bassist Geddy Lee, Lifeson reflected on Rush’s legacy, saying, “We’re certainly proud of our track record, and we still love music. But it’s different now.”
The proper Rush trio last took the stage in 2015, celebrating their 40th anniversary. And despite a great deal of tragedy – the passing of Peart’s daughter and wife in 1997 – the band remained visible and celebrated their induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017.
“I just don’t feel it in my heart right now. Every time I pick up a guitar, I just aimlessly mess around with it and put it down after 10 minutes…Normally, I would pick up a guitar and I would play for a couple of hours without even being aware that I’m spending that much time. So I know it’ll come back,” Lifeson added.
6 Comments comments associated with this post
Dustin Mitchell
June 5, 2020 at 1:11 pmHere com the Rush cultists. Stop attaching yourself to their lives. They dont know you and you dont know them.
Mike
June 4, 2020 at 9:36 amWhen Neil died, I listened exclusively to RUSH music for over a week. I listen now out of pure enjoyment again. I am sure that in the future, they will play in honor of Neil. I am just grateful that me and my son got to see them in concert 4 times.
D of KC
June 3, 2020 at 5:18 pmSo glad I got to see every Tour from say 1984 on here in Kansas City and on. Great band, unreal live shows. The Time Machine Tour and R40 Tours were superb…. Will miss this group!!! D of KC
Mike Villano
June 3, 2020 at 8:09 pm84 was my first Rush show too. Saw them several times over the decades: 86, 92 (with Primus opening!), 2007, and their final show at the L.A. Forum in 2015. A great group and true band of the people.
man
June 3, 2020 at 2:06 pmI wouldn’t expect anything besides honestly and poignancy from either surviving member. Thanks for sharing Alex, it hurts as a fan, but I can only imagine what it is like for Alex or Geddy.
I think his comments give a window into the depth of the entity that was Rush. These guys forged a shared DNA and basically breathed as one for 40 years.
Ccn
June 3, 2020 at 2:04 pmPlease mourn and celebrate his life. It’s normal to have these feelings while processing his loss. Being a fan is hard enough, Can’t imagine your pain and feelings of loss. We support you brother. One day at a time, your purpose will see the light of day again and it’ll be therapeutic for you and us. Until then, be well.