Neil Peart

Neil Peart (September 12, 1952 – January 7, 2020) was Rush's legendary drummer, lyricist, and conceptual heart from 1974 until the band's final tour in 2015. Widely regarded as one of the greatest rock drummers of all time, his complex, powerful playing, intricate odd-time signatures, and storytelling lyrics defined Rush's progressive sound.

Nicknamed "The Professor" for his intellectual approach and "Pratt" from childhood, Neil joined Rush just before the release of Fly by Night (1975), replacing John Rutsey. His arrival marked the band's shift to ambitious concept albums and philosophical themes — he wrote lyrics for nearly every song from 1975 onward.

Beyond drumming, Neil was an avid motorcyclist, author (eight books including Ghost Rider and Far and Wide), and advocate for education and literacy. He received the Order of Canada (1996) and induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with Rush (2013).

Neil passed away in 2020 after a private battle with glioblastoma. His legacy endures through Rush's music, his writings, and the inspiration he gave to drummers and fans worldwide.