Jeff Woods chats with Rush

2 years ago by Jeff Woods |

Recently honoured with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, currently on their ‘Time Machine Tour’,  playing for the first time ever, “Moving Pictures” in it’s entirety,  and featuring 2 new songs “Caravan” and “BU2B” that were pre-released from their recording session for their upcoming 20th studio album called “Clockwork Angels” scheduled for release in 2011 –  RUSH are super busy and super happy to be together making music for their fans.

Alex Lifeson and Geddy Lee took an hour out of their busy schedule, to join me to talk about all things RUSH, including the recent award winning documentary ‘Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage’ (out on DVD and blue ray June 29th), the making of songs from ‘Moving Pictures’ plus the making of the Moving Pictures album art, plus Rush on Rockband and Guitar Hero, what does RUSH still want to accomplish as a band, and lots lots more.

In fact, we turned the interview into a radio special which aired across North America the weekend of June 25th.  Now, my conversation, available here in its entirety.  If you love RUSH, be sure to let your fellow RUSH fans know about this revealing interview. 

Hope you enjoy.

Cheers,

Jeff Woods.

add a comment 264 Comments
  • Jason

    I have been waiting for this like an impatient child …thank you !

  • Jason

    I’ve just finished watching this, great interview – I really like how you focused more on the musicianship and the creative process behind Rush. You also answered a question that I never knew the answer to and that is why Neil never seems to make the interviews with the Alex and Geddy. I’m amazed at how relaxed they are and how they aren’t pretending to be humble about their success nor flaunting it. I get a real feeling like they really appreciate their past but are always looking forward. What says it all, for me is “we haven’t written our best song” – that is why Rush are the greatness that is “Rush”. Top job mate, I really enjoyed that.

  • Rick

    Jeff,

    I get that you have the best job in the world, but this is a great example of just how well it can be done. As always, top notch interview.

    Rick

  • J Ranger

    P6, Alex’s last statement… “Rock is a young mans game”, I would have to disagree, presentation of the material no matter how it is intended, rock or classical is from the soul, and even though we feel old… me included… it is the soul that plays the show, and even if the body fails somewhat.. it still comes across as it should, as rock… it does so ever more when there is no real time measure to the songs existance.

    Very well rounded interview, and much appreciated.

    Jack

  • Ian

    I really liked your conversation with Geddy and Alex, you really brought up some good topics us rush fans like to hear about, and that is not only the processes in which they make some of their best songs, but also the things they do outside of the studio or touring. It was also nice to hear them go back to different points in their lives with different stories, such as their stage names versus the actual birth names. i reall enjoyed watching this video, thanks.

  • Benjamin

    Great smart interview, I really enjoyed it.

    This confirms that the greatest are the simplier people, These guys are the most creative intelligent people in rock today, their music is fresh on every new album, I’m sure Rush will be listened for years coming and will receive what they deserve as the most creative musicians of our time.

    Music for musicians, music for the good listener who understand music and love to hear how rock should sound!

  • John

    met Neil on a motorcycle trip i took by myself. he actually commented me on how he liked my R1200GS. I responded back to him by saying, “thanks Chef Ellwood.” lol.. it was only a brief conversation about motorcycles but he did suggest for me to hit up Telluride and the Loneliest Road in America which is where i had been the day before.

    after reading his books i can see why he stays away from the fan and media hype.

    I grew up playing guitar since 6 and drums at 9 and for years i have always thought Alex and Geddy are under-rated players. as a young kid I could learn all these other songs with ease like Metallica stuff and so on but I always got stuck learning Alex’s work until I got a bit older and started studying his style more. Then by high school a friend of mine got me into learning the Peart style and the passion has been there since.

    Neil’s new Sabian Paragon’s are just awesome with the Time Machine Tour artwork. Cant wait to see them live in a few months

    thanx for the videos. this interview is awesome!

  • Andrew Dieb

    Just finished watching the full interview and came away with a great since of inspiration. As a former musician, i have always lived somewhat vicariously through my favorite musical influences. After watching the documentary 3 times and now this interview, I feel much more connected with who they are as people. There was always the music, but seeing the genuine friendship and bond they have with each other is something I would have never known without these wonderful visual documents of their lives.

    Thank you so much for doing such a great job and sharing your work with us.

    Andrew Dieb
    Arlington, TX

  • Pat Allen

    Great interview! You really brought out their best! Your ” Chats with RUSH” is a must see for all devoted fans… If all works out I’ll see this performance in Chicago, Columbus, and Atlanta…

    Thanks for your great work!

    RUSH fan from March of 1974 to present!

    Pat Allen

  • Denival Cesar Servilha

    Do they go to in brazil “the time machine tour”?

  • Dave

    Awesome job!! Great interview!! These guys are true pros and seem so humble about their success. I miss seeing Neil, but understand his need for privacy and being humble about his success. Can’t wait to see them again.!!

  • Larry

    Very good intelligent interview. You get into quite deep areas about the music and Rush’s process. I really enjoyed it. Thanks! Good job Jeff!

  • Marc

    Hey Jeff! Thanks for the great interview. I am always amazed at how Alex and Geddy are just regular guys who happen to play in the greatest band of all time. We watched “Beyond the Lighted Stage” last night (it was my birthday present!) and your interview was just icing on the cake!

    We’re going to see Alex, Geddy and Neil twice this Summer, once at Bluesfest in Ottawa and at the Festival d’été in Québec. I cannot wait!!

    Capital job, Jeff! Keep up the great work!

    Marc

  • Jamaal

    Because he is shy. He also lives in LA now doesn’t he?

  • Lou

    STOP DISSOLVING BETWEEN SHOTS!

  • Shawn

    Man, that was beautiful. I’ve been to all the concerts for more than 20 years and have all the music from the beginning (some you can’t get in the US). . . But it shows the integrity of a band that can stick together through thick and thin and not many bands can do that, especially for so long and through the changes the music world has gone through in the past 40 years. This is a band whose music will outlive all of us and be collected for generations to come, almost like Bach and Beethoven.

  • Lynn

    Rush will always have that special place in the world of music. I have been a fan since the 70′s. And always will be. I was glad to see how well they have taken care of themselves. They look good for a band that has been around as long as they have. Great interview,Thanks

  • Rodolfo Mendoza

    I am a Guatemalan fan of Rush ever since the first albums. I loved the interview and I am waiting on my BEYOND THE LIGHTED STAGE DVD to devour it again and again. COngratulations on your great work. My cherry on the cake would be if Rush would include a Venue here in Guatemala for the next tour, since they have already been to Latin America with great success, its not such a bad idea.

  • Penny May-Johnston

    Love these guys!! Will see them in September in Dallas!! Thanks for a great interview and creating an atmosphere where it really felt like I was in the room enjoying the moment! And like them I too think Canada is the place I need to “go home” to feel grounded again. Awesome interview Jeff!

  • Rick

    What an incredible interview…the guys were relaxed and seemed very open to all the questions that were asked. You made it fun and I definitely also enjoyed hearing about Jimmy Page and Robert Plant and their time together. And if Rush feels they have not written their greatest song yet, I can’t wait to hear what comes next! Thanks and Great Job!!

  • simon2112

    jeff you have the best radio voice ever! hahah, great interview! i love how you use geddys solo album song as the theme music! just awesome!!

  • Robert Duffy

    This by far, has been one of the best interviews ever. I was excited to see the release of RUSH – Beyond a Lighted Stage which was done brilliantly. Your interview gave this trio such grace minus “The New Guy” as Geddy would say, but with much respect to Neil. All bands should take note on the sucess and impact that RUSH has had on its fans. They had a dream to play and that is what they did and staying true to themself and not get caught up in the Limelight. You look at all the greats out there and by far RUSH is truely one of them in thier own class. Hopefully one day I will run into them just to say “Thanks”. looking forward to seeing them on this leg of the tour in Pittsburgh. Great Job!

  • Matt

    SSSSSSSLAPPIN’ DA BAAAAAHHHSSSS

  • Dave

    Absolutely fantastic interview.. very insightful and well done…. this and the Qtv interview from a little while back are the 2 best interviews I’ve ever seen with these guys.

  • Irene Brass

    Great interview, Am looking forward to the new album next year. I am very excited to hear they are taking a new direction with there music. And congatulations on being on the Hollywood Walk of fame,it was very cool. Now it’s time for them to go into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame next.Thank you for your timea nd Rock on RUSH have a great tour this year and many more.

  • John V. Burger

    That was a great interview/conversation with Rush. Rush has always been my favorite band and I am pleased that they are getting the recognition they have worked so hard to achieve. Notwithstanding the adulation, they seem to be fairly normal guys who just love to play and make music. Their music has resonated with integrity. That is why fans have followed them and are so devoted. Rush has not taken their status for granted and they have not rested on their laurels. Mediocrity is not something that can ever be associated with them.

    Thanks for sharing this conversation.

    Take care!

    jvb

  • Scott L

    Jeff, I am a 32 year long fan of RUSH. That was a great interview. I would have to say one of the best interview’s I have seen done with the boys. You did bring out a few things I had never heard before. Did I hear them correct? Did they confirm the next album to be a full concept album?

  • Eric

    Great interview… I’m always amazed at how loose they are together. Even after 40 years they still are best friends and like an old married couple, finish each others sentences and know what works and what doesn’t.

    My wife and I are heading Saturday to Summerfest in Milwaukee for the Rush show along with about 10 other life long friends who grew up with Rush and have been inspired by them… being 41 years old myself, I hope they never retire — that they haven’t “written their best song” makes me long for many more years to come from them!

    Thanks for the great interview Jeff, you’ve made me a fan of yours :)

  • MikeD

    Thank you for sharing this interview with the rest of the world. It will help with the band’s decision to be more open and public. I wish they had made that decision earlier in their career. They are such classy and VERY funny guys.

    This band sets the standard for how a rock ‘n roll band can make it through good times and bad. More people need to listen to what these guys say, and watch what they do. I think most people who aren’t aware of Rush don’t know that there exists a band that has been together for nearly 40 years–especially a band that began in the late 1960s. I think there’s too much cynicism about the business, and these guys overcame all that is truly negative about it.

    Now, as a Rush fan since 1980, and as one who conducts interviews for a living, please allow me to be critical of your interview.

    While you had good questions, I think the note cards made your interview a bit awkward. They made for dead air, and because you relied on them, I don’t think you got spontaneous and thorough answers. It wasn’t as organic as it could have and should have been.

    One thing I’d like to know, is because of their age, and all the miles they have on their bodies, they must have some limitations on their ability to play. I know from the Rush in Rio DVD, Geddy was having some trouble with his main playing finger–his “noisy bastard” as he called it. Did you guys happen to talk about that off-camera?

    Thank you for the interview and for the opportunity to share my thoughts. I hope you take my criticism as being helpful.

  • Joseph Martin

    Loved the interview. Touched on many subjects that I look for in a comprehensive interview. I just wish that you would have touched on one subject that might have been made taboo. That subject is Rock n Roll Hall of Fame. This Rules states Artists become eligible for induction 25 years after the release of their first recordings. The influence and significance of their contribution to rock and roll is the criteria. The nominating committee, composed of rock and roll historians, send ballots to about 1,000 rock and roll experts. Artists who receive the most votes, and more than 50% of the vote are inducted.

    I just can’t believe that they haven’t been inducted already. How many bands have been preforming for 40 years. Not just performing but touring even.

  • Chad Saylor

    Jeff,

    I’ve been a Rush fan for 20 years, and that was probably the best interview — from any medium — I’ve seen. I appreciated how you covered the usual bases with the band but also conversed with them as just Geddy and Alex and not the superstars of Rush — outstanding. Thanks, eh.

    –Chad

  • Ian Irwin

    Superb interview, Jeff – I love your style and the guys seemed really at ease and comfortable talking.

    I’m so pleased that Rush is still with us today and still have a hunger for creating more and better music – especially as they came so close to finishing during Neil’s dark times.

    I remember the days before the internet, where every morsel of interview or footage of the band outside of the studio released videos was so hard to come by, and these days I feel like a child in a sweet shop with so much media around!

    Anyway, you did a fantastic job there and I look forward to the Rush and Orchestra performances – it has to happen now!

    Cheers from the UK

  • Bob

    I have to say I really enjoyed the interview.
    Gedd and Alex are excellent at giving reviews.
    Understanding Neil doesn’t care for the interview thing is ok. No one feels he’s shunning his fan base.
    I’ve seen Rush 11 times and think they just keep getting better every time.
    They mentioned fathers and sons and mothers and daughters going together.
    I’ve taken my son 3 times and this time it will be the first for my daughter to go see them. I know she’ll have a great time and see why dad’s such a fan.
    Can’t wait to see them in Sept. in Pitts.
    Thank you for sharing this interview with us.

  • jeff

    Great interview with a couple of rock’s most talented and seemingly nicest mega stars. It’s refreshing to be as impressed with a rock star’s attitude and personality as you are with their music. Thanks again for bringing it out for all to enjoy!

  • Ken McCain

    What a great interview! I’ve posted the link on my facebook page and sent it to other fans so they can enjoy it, too. You are a good host and ask great questions. Very refreshing to hear them respond in length rather than a “yes” or “no”, which is a result of being asked questions correctly. Cheers!

  • Ron

    What an interview. You’re very good at what you do Mr. Woods.

    You’ve spoken with two of my favorite bands (Triumph & Rush) within weeks of each other.
    I’m delighted!!

    Please, just stay friends with them so you can carry on with what you do so very well!

    Happy Canada Day!

  • David

    This is probably the best Rush interview I have ever seen. I just watched Beyond the Lighted Stage last night and now this interview. I am totally pumped for the Tour where myself and 7 of my closest friends will be “slappin da bass” on 8/13 in Irvine, CA. Thank you Rush and Jeff!

  • Joanna

    Wow. Amazing interview. Love how down-to-Earth these guys are. They’re so well-spoken and for those not into the technical side of music, you can still understand where they’re going with a song and/or how it comes out. I love the chemistry, the friendship and the humor.

    Jeff: Your appreciation of Rush really shows. Incredible job. Thank you.

  • Bob

    Jeff, thank you for this lengthy interview with Rush that had me wanting even more at the end! And thank you for posting it to facebook so quickly for all of us big Rush fans!

  • David

    Excellent interview Jeff. Both Alex and Geddy were obviously relaxed and open to your questions.

    I bet its a fresh breath of air for them to be questioned by someone who knows what he’s talking about as far as their history goes and doesn’t ask the same obvious stupid questions!

    Great job.

  • Ritchie

    Thanks Jeff , I enjoyed the interview very much .

    cheers .

  • Bill Ridner

    Probably the best interview with Rush I have ever heard. Been a fan since I heard Moving Pictures, when it was released, and immediately went out and bought all there older albums. I hope, with all the recent fanfare surrounding them, that they FINALLY get into the R&R Hall of Fame.

  • Walter

    How great!
    I really loved the interview as well. I can’t wait to see the movie!
    What a couple of genuine guys!

  • Jeff Chiott

    GREAT INTERVIEW! I’ve been a loyal fan for decades and am proud to be one of the fathers that you mentioned that was able to share RUSH with my son. These guys are truly the “real deal”. They seem very humble and appreciative. Certainly that’s getting more rare these days. In my opinion what they have is “respect”. Respect for their craft, respect for their peers, respect for one another, and respect for their fans. Their perspective on life certainly seems to be the correct one and that continues to be very refreshing. Imagine that, after 40 years of rocking, still refreshing, especially to those of us who enjoy being able to “air drum” in the middle of an arena, listening to YYZ, with our kids next to us, “air drumming” just as hard as we are.

  • Timm

    Great interview as always Jeff – well thought out questions to give both the long time learned fan as well as the new fan, good bits to chew on.

    The boys are such a breath of fresh air. Rock legends that do what they do, always striving for perfection but without the ego and are as casual as talking to a neighbour. No pomp and fluff like so many that permeate the airwaves these days.

  • Timm

    oh… forgot to ask…
    What’s with the Hetfield look?

  • Hannu aka. kunnon kansalainen

    Life’s a journey, seeking for maybe the love or the truth to each other’s way to be alive..you grow up, mature..experience and always remember the past, when I first time heard Rush in the little town close to USSR back then 1979 era of time.so different intelligent and interesting. So humble and nice gentleman pure masters of humanity ! :) Jeff, thanks for this enjoyable moment and have a great Rush summer 2010! From Finland with Kippis (=cheers, cin cin..whatever)!

  • Matt

    Fabulous, simply fabulous. That you were able to instill such a sense of ease with the band mates so that Geddy was able to relate the childhood memory of the origin of his name by gesturing demonstrably with his arm and declaring in his mother’s voice: “Gary,(Geddy)come in the house” was, I believe, the most relaxed and open moment I have seen Geddy in any interview I have ever seen. And then to bring it right back on topic, and not to uncomfortably push for more, was masterful. From what I have been able to witness, Geddy has historically been quite reserved in showing private emotions in public interviews so to be able to bring that out of him was truly a gem, so much so I had watch your exchange over and over again. I felt that I learned more about Geddy in those few brief moments than I have in the last 30 years I have been following band combined. Bravo!

  • Deb

    Brilliant. Thank you!

  • Terry

    I’m smiling a smile of long duration!
    Great interview, great guys, great talents, so relaxed yet so alive, I could go on gushing for a long time about this peek into Rush. WOW!
    As I write this I can barely stay in my chair, as tomorrow night I get to see them in concert! Excitement ^3! :-)

    Thank you Jeff for sharing this with the us! I was not familiar with you prior to finding this, but I see there is a LOT to love here. I shall be back, and I shall share your site.

  • Ste

    Very interesting, looking foward to the movie and album.
    Love your natural enthusiasm for they’re music it really came across.
    God love ‘em!
    Rush n Roll.

  • Tamra Grace

    Excellent, excellent interview. Insightful; covering the regular topics but getting much deeper. Great job, Mr. Woods. I read everything about Rush and am amazed at how pedestrian and repetitive the interviews can get. Thanks for taking it to another level. Not only are you conversing with one of my top 3 bands, you’re easy on the eyes as well! ;-)

  • steve

    What an amazing interview,WELL DONE JEFF!!!
    Got tix too see them at the Amphitheatre,probably didn’t spell that right,but,for some reason,im getting a sense like the Beatles fans must of felt when they came to north america all those years ago……and boy; I CAN’T WAIT!!!!

  • Steve in Centralia, Washington

    Great job Jeff! I’ve been in radio for over 30 years and I always wondered what I’d ask the guys who are my idols. Taking off the radio-work hat and just be a fan. Yet, keep my professional “composure”. Great questions and comments that lead to their frankness. You got alot out of an hour. Peter Talbot, by the way, lives near me. When I went to the “Farewell To Kings” tour while living in Seattle, I’d never dream the co-writer of “Closer To The Heart” would wind up near me…living
    in my town. And…no, I’ve NEVER hit him up for meet and greet passes.
    :) Take care and again, great job.

  • David Payne

    Great interview… thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. It was a perfect mixture of Q&A of the past, present, and future. Way to go. Cheers!

  • Zach

    Great interview. Well done!! Would definitely LOVE to see them play with a symphony – So many of their tunes (2112) are screaming for something like that. Nice to see that they’re such great guys and such great friends after all these years. Truly Rush is a national treasure!

  • Trent

    You know I have seen alot of interviews with RUSH. I have to say this is one of my favorites Jeff. It’s nice to see a band that I have loved for so many years, still to this day be so passionate and honest about they’re music and the friendship that goes along with that. Thank You for not being that overspoken over the top interviewer. It was great to watch and listen to, and I am very much looking forward to seeing the guys again on the Time Machine Tour, when it hits Ohio in August.. Thanks to you and RUSH.

  • Jim Murray

    Awesome interview. Been a die hard Rush fan for the better part of my 40 years on this planet, and seen what must be thousands of interviews with them. Must be dificult to come up with questions that haven’t been asked of them a million times before. Great job on your part, and a great tribute to the band I love.

    Thank you.

    Jim

  • Stephen James Evans

    Jeff,

    Many thanks for such a great interview with my favourite band, Rush.

    What a great companion to the documentary.

    Your questions really showed a deep respect for the band and their music.

    What a great band with such a rich history.

    Cheers, Stephen

  • By-Tor

    I think this was the best interview with them so far. I think it was good because you didn’t talk up to them and make them feel like gods, you talked musically and I think they really felt you were someone they can relax with and have a talk.

  • Aqua Man

    What a great attitude towards living life!

  • Chris S.

    Hey Jeff,

    Congrats on a FANTASTIC interview with Geddy & Alex! VERY well done, and I loved the ease and flow of the conversation! Not to mention the humor throughout the interview!! This will certaintly make me more excited to see RUSH this year in concert on the Time Machine Tour!

    Thank You very much for conducting this interview and sharing it with us!! RUSH is one of THE premier bands of all time, and this surely was one of the BEST interviews I’ve ever seen of them!! Great job, Jeff!!

    All The Best,

    Chris ;-)

  • Ruben Pulgarin Cruz

    Excellent interview! Best interview ever seen on this magnificent 40 year old band.
    The way you conducted was quite inspiring… it’s very good sharing memories and hopes with good people and extraordinarious musicians like Geddy and Alex… Neil’s absence in this interview was that missing nickel to make this perfect!

    Congrats Jeff! Thank you so much!
    Greetings from Bogota, Colombia
    (wonder if Alex saw his t-shirt)

  • Tom Gorycki

    Wow, what an excellent interview with 2 of my all time favorite individuals! It is evident these guys are not just “Fly by Night” musicians; they’re definitely in it for the long haul. It is also evident that you genuinely enjoyed talking with these two down to earth gentlemen. Thank you so much for making this happen and making it available to everyone!

  • DON HENDERSON

    Thanks for a great interview with such interesting and original questions. Thanks also for showing so much respect to a band
    that has never received that from the media.
    For so many years, as I have been a devoted fan of Rush since ’78, I have seen the media
    treat Rush as a social outcast. It seemed that previous interviewers didn’t like their
    music, didn’t understand it, didn’t want to give a non top 40 band a chance. Being a fan of their music first and their dedication to it, I learned to really appreciate their personalities and love them as people with the release of Rush In Rio and the documentary The Boys In Brazil.
    Having met them twice on “meet and Greets”
    I can say that they really care about their fans and have remained “down to earth” even
    with their success of late. I have a feeling that you might feel the same way and
    it seemed to come out in your questioning.
    It appeared as you checked your cards that you were being careful with your presentation as to not offend them in anyway. I appreciate that and I’m sure they did too ! thanks man !

  • Chris May

    Loved to hear from the guys..Wish neil would do an interview but…….Just great to hear what they thought about recording and things Thanks Jeff great interview!!

  • Antonio

    I’ve only been into Rush for a year now but they are what made me pick up my guitar and learn fly by night and then even play it at school after a few months of playing guitar and learning it all by ear I look up to these guys and this interview shows how calm they are, and nice, not rushed, they also seem in control of their lives with everything. Liked the long interview nice to hear these guys.

  • John S Wilson III

    what a great interview! One of the best I’ve listened to! I liked the phrase about Rush being “what is possible with three friends.” Wow! The power of friendship!

  • Steven

    Excellent interview, love these guys and have been a fan for over a decade, will continue to see them live until they retire. The new material is great, I get a vibe of 2112 from BU2B just sans the psychadelic keyboard sounds. As a guitar player I have enjoyed Alex’s almost frantic playing style on many tunes and his over the top guitar solos and riffs.

  • Owen Phillips

    Thanks for the informative interview Jeff. If you can pass this on to the boys, tell them they should check out playing the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff next year: 80,000 seats, a retractable roof and a big Welsh welcome awaiting. (we even have a motorway and two enormous bridges to let foreign fans come over from England to enjoy the moment with us too!
    ps The Ryder Cup golf course is between there and where Rush recorded A Farewell to Kings and Hemispheres – in case Alex wants to swing his clubs on the way to visiting memory lane.

  • peterjamesfreer

    Typical Canadians. A great series of quiet insights and well-collected thoughts from humble, intelligent rockers that have made their mark in musical history internationally and here the Great White North. In fact made their mark a few times over.

    It is a real testament to their genius that the music of the 70s era, 80s era and on are still relevant, and in demand.

    This band defines being Canadian as much as they do prog-rock, power trio or virtuoso musicians. I can’t imagine being Canadian and not having Rush as part of our culture.

    They are perfect ambassadors for us Canucks – just like their music.

    Thanks Jeff.

    -pjf

  • MIKE

    Does anyone know what Alex’s shirt says? I could be wrong, but it looks like it says “darien”, which is my son’s name…how weird is that.

    Nice interview, btw.

  • evandro luis ribeiro

    eu amo o rush costaria de saber de vc se a band vai ce apresentar no brasil neste ano de 2010 ok abraços a vocé . brother de brasil estado de santa catarina cidade de itapema ok obrigado pois derdi o show que esteve por aqui no ano de 2002

  • David Priestley

    What about John Rutsy do rush ever or did they ever keep in touch with him before he died ,i have the rare video from Laura secord high school with John playing drums

  • Robert Grabowsky

    Found this interview thru a posting on my Facebook page and I really enjoyed it. You did a great job of interviewing and not asking the same old questions. Thanks for interviewing one of my favorite bands.

  • Hube

    I have a few interviews on tape from years past and also listen to many on the radio as well. Your sit down was a real pleasure!
    I will be at the Mn. State Fair in August to see these three Kings and receive their almighty gifts that each bring to share. The trio is being rewarded from movies to walk of fame’s and many other honors. All tremendously over due!
    Thanks to all that help Rush succeed and to know that there’s so much more to come, well… it just makes life… better!!

  • Asian Rush Fan

    Awesome interview. It was relaxing to say the least. Must be great to speak to people who aren’t idiots.

  • WORKING MEN

    I DON’T LIKE TO WATCH INTERVIEWS THAT MUCH BUT I’M GLAD RUSH DID THIS INTERVIEW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  • Shane Stevens

    That was great! RUSH are like Energizer bunnies…they just keep going, and going, and going…RUSH RULES! I just purchased my copy of “Beyond The Lighted Stage” today. I’ve been waiting for 33 years. I have to admit that I almost cried as I sat watching and thinking about the countless hours I sat in my room everyday after school listenting to their music. Rush have had such a huge, positive influence on my life. Not just in my musical, or literary interests, but also in my work ethic. To this day, I continue to strive to do my best in everything I do; and hold true to myself in my commitment for the visions and eventual goals I set for myself. Again, RUSH RULES! And please, if at all possible, please include Vancouver in your next tour! Thanks for the many years of listening enjoyment. And thanks to Jeff too!

  • Rich

    Loved it, watched it all.

  • Greg Blank

    Excellent questions/interview! One of the best I have seen. One really important question I still wonder about is whether Rush would consider releasing the individual instrument lines in the mixes and/or backing tracks of past albums so that all the rush inspired musicians out there can play along and fill in whatever instrument combination they like… And additionally to really hear the raw components separated out of the mix to hear the subtle possibly unheard nuances when the instrument lines stand alone. This would be like the Rush holy grail to a musician like me. :)

  • Rick Maklebust

    What an enjoyable sitdown with Ged and Alex. I’ve heard and watched many of these kinds of interviews with them before, but this one felt so candid and, well, conversational!

    Thanks so much Jeff, keep up the good work.

  • Courtney

    Wow, this was such an amazing interview. I had just learned stuff about Rush I never knew before. And Geddy and Alex are so well spoken, it’s really great to hear them talk. Good questions that you had asked, Jeff. They also had me thinking about how the music world and the world in general would be without Rush. As well as what will the future look like.
    Great interview, and I look forward to many great things down the road with Rush.
    I had just seen them on the Time Machine Tour and it was amazing.
    Could you relay a message that it was my first concert and my first Rush show, and it exceeded my expectations?

  • Todd

    Great interview! I’m 50, and all of a sudden have a highly renewed interest in the band. I have all the vinyl albums up through Moving Pictures. Bought them at the time when they came out, so definitely a huge fan back in the day.Jeff, One quick true rock’n'roll story… In 1977 10th grade, I brought in the album “A Farewell to Kings” to my English teacher for him to check out the lyrics in the “cool” gatefold lp. He went and brought in a record player and played the entire album during class. Now I’m sure the rest of my classmates didn’t really care much about Rush, {I’m sure they were appreciative about not having to do schoolwork!} But I thought that was kinda a cool moment. I never had the opportunity to see Rush in concert, and now am asking my 18 year old son, if he wants to go see them this fall with me. I’ve got the rocdoc dvd coming! Keep up the good work Jeff! Peace.

  • Duane

    What a great interview. So many interviews are rushed (pardon the pun), but Jeff takes his time and asks some great questions. One ? I always wanted to ask was about Geddy having to sing Neil’s lyrics even if he didn’t feel them in that way. Thanks Jeff.

  • Jim J

    It’s really inspiring to listen to Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson talk about all these different music and life experiences, having grown up listening to Rush and being a fan. Great interview – thanks.

    My best friend lived at Glen Manor and Queen in the Beach circa 1975-1990. I lived closeby. Course, everyone said that Geddy Lee owned this black house half way up the hill north of Queen. I’d always plan my route to drive by it when visiting or we’d go by on one of our strolls and we never saw anyone there. No lights, nothing. So we’d always think he was touring somewhere.

    He doesn’t live there anymore but it’s a very nice memory.

  • RICHARD RIDDLE

    WANT SOME CCCRRRAAAZZZZYYY CHICKEN!?????

  • Mark

    Fun to hear from these guys after many years for me; Rush was a big part of my high school years ‘soundtrack’ in the mid 80′s. Nice job with the interview. I’ve enjoyed the documentary as well. An old HS buddy and I are planning on going to see them in DC in Sept. – just like old times (Grace Under Pressure Tour ’84!)

    Question: I hadn’t heard about their Moving Pictures live set – is that something they are doing on this upcoming tour, or has that already happened? Any info. would be appreciated. Thanks!

  • Mike

    Also, if, in fact, Alex’s shirt does say “darien”, what are the chances that you could contact Alex and ask him if he’d be willing to send that shirt to by son, Darien? We both will be attending the concert in Tulsa, OK on Sept. 21, would be nice to be able to meet him there…

  • Matt

    Thank you so much for letting every Rush fan see this interview. Being a music teacher for junior high students, I cannot tell you how many of my students have a great love and appreciation for their music. The part about how they feel about young musicians playing their music on Rock band and Guitar Hero really struck me. It is great hear that they feel so appreciative about it which goes to show what great people they really are. So many of my students come up to me and say “I can play Tom Sawyer on Rock Band” or “My father is taking me to my first Rush concert”. Once again thanks so much for posting the interview. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

  • Chris

    Jeff Woods has the ultimate radio voice. Really interesting interview, I could watch this stuff all day.

  • Dave Webb

    Thanks for this interview, intelligent, respectful, well done.

    It’s nice to have someone working in this business that isn’t all about the fluff and costume changes.

    As a new three piece Canadian rock band we are constantly faced with media that are interested in style over substance. We really appreciate your work.

    Dave Webb

  • Rick McCabe

    Jeff, amazing interview, so much information about things I didnt know about, I’ve said before love hearing your voice on air, your one of the best and their are only a couple, Frost and Derringer in my books, your probably number one.

  • Turk

    Outstanding interview Jeff! It didn’t hurt that you were chatting with members of my favorite band. ;)

    I have a quick story for you and the rest of the Rush fans who care to read this. My wife and I were fortunate enough to have stumbled into Geddy on a street corner in the French Quarter during their stop in New Orleans on the Snakes and Arrows tour. We were in town for the show as well. While I hated to bother Geddy during his personal time, I simply couldn’t resist saying hello and thanking him for the years of enjoyment I have received from their music and the positive impact their music has played in my life. The thing that struck me the most was how damn nice Geddy was. For those that have never met him in person, I can tell you that he was the guy you see in Jeff’s interview, just simply a very gracious person. He could have been an ass and told us not to bother him, but he didn’t. He even posed for a photo with me and chatted with us for a few minutes. Of course, I immediately texted the picture all of my friends and family and it was truly one of the pinnacles of my life.

    Thanks for letting me share my story and especially thanks for the awesome interview with a pair of rock’s greatest legends! Turk

  • Evik James

    Wow! I really enjoyed your thorough and thoughtful interview. I would have asked those same questions. Too many people listen to Rush and think they are superficial or pretentious. They goof around like they are 16 year olds at party just having a great time doing what they love to do. It was great seeing them in such a casual environment. Great job!

  • Geddy Friedman

    Hey Jeff, maybe see if you can have Rush release this interview on a DVD somehow. It’s too elaborate and in depth to just drop to the side with countless other short interviews. I am sure fans would LOVE a copy for keepsake. Heck, maybe you can release it with their permission . . . Work something out! :)

    Thanks again. I watched the whole thing late last night and am sure to watch it again soon. One segment that I found particularly important was about Neil’s shyness. There are those from the outside who misinterpret Neil and it would be nice to help them better understand. I’ll probably comment again after I watch it again. It’s funny for me, who was a kid Rush fan late in the Rush years, to now be at the end of my 20′s and to gain seniority over much newer Rush fans. If you ever get to interview Mick Jagger, encourage him to play forever. So long as he is out there Rush will feel youthful and vibrant! I am perfectly happy with another 10 or 20 years of Rush, especially since they really are at the top of their game right now after all this time.

  • Thomas Bakke

    It´s 10 a clock at night in Copenhagen, Denmark. Sitting in front of my pc with a hot cup of tea, when I discover this great indepth-interview with my all time iconic rock heroes. Never heard about you before jeff. I really have been entertained the last 40 minutes. Keep up the good work!

  • Paul

    Wow what a great conversation with two World class Musicians who get it. As a former rock radio programmer for over 15 years I can say this was as enjoyable as it was informative. Years ago in NYC at the McGathy Convention I heard someone say that the perfect radio artist interview made the listener feel as though he were asking the questions, congratulations Jeff you exceeded
    that too. The questions were intelligent and obviously well researched and made me proud to have been in the business of great radio before consolidation. I also loved Geddy bringing up Jeff Berlin and Les Claypool two of my favorite bassists too. Now if the US Rock & Roll HOF can get their act together and induct these three icons of music into it, where they belong.

  • Peter Wortman

    Thanks. Great interview. Style over substance is n a way mentioned in a Rush song.
    “So much style without substance,
    so much stuff with out style,
    It’s hard to recognize the real thing,
    it comes along once in a while.”

    From “grand design” from the album power windows.

  • Jeff James

    What a great interview Jeff. Great questions and insightful answers. You brought us a side of these guys that we rarely get to see. They really are human just like the rest of us.

    Like the boys in Rush, you obviously approach your craft with passion and your preparation shows in the final product. And taking the time to answer every fan’s blog entry truly does make you the coolest guy in rock radio! Thanks!

  • shane dugard

    what a gret interview with geddy and alex cant wait for them to tour over here in england next year hopefully give them my kind regards from shane in grimsby england

  • Jon

    For those of us out there who are long time Rushologist (or Rushonians), the fact that Rush still exists and creates is comforting and rewarding. It is something to both enjoy and look forward to. It is a great satisfaction to those of us who care about the music of these 3 men, that it lives in concerts and in new music still to come. For those of us who are passionate about the music of Rush, hope is rewarded Thank you for the interview, it was informatave, intimate, and real.

    Regards

  • Bill Ernst

    As an avid fan, just to hear that they were on tour was a lift to my spirit! For a brotherhood that has paid there dues in the successes and losses sustained, it is always a triumph to hear they are still going strong! Mr. Woods, thank-you for sharing your work with us all!

  • Clark

    That was excellent Jeff – well done!

  • Todd

    Jeff,
    One of the BEST interviews of Geddy and Alex I have seen. Excellent work, great questions and they are obviously very comfortable with you..

  • Stan R. Briede

    Loved the interviews! Rush is my favorite group ever! Everyday I listen to them~ a different album, a different feeling! It’s like going to the candy store! I’ve grown up with Rush and I appreciate what they’ve done to my Life thus far with their music!! I wish Neil would have been in these sessions! Neil is my biggest idol! I would love to meet the boys someday! Maybe I’ll break into back stage at the Columbus show in August! lol

  • Lynn Allen

    Great interview not a lot of the same old questions. Some funny stuff as well. That was a quick hour.

  • Graham from Ireland

    Nice interview. I love listening to the Alex and Geddy, I love their humour and that there is still a teenager-ish aspect to their friendship. Never been to Canada, will make it someday. And now that I’ve discovered this site I will return – lots here to enjoy and many Irish Rush and Classic Rock fans will check this out too!

  • Greg

    Awesome! This is the first time I’ve had the oppurtunity to hear you Jeff and I have to say job well done. I wish there were six more parts!! What a joy to hear two of my idols explaining their creative process and how much passion they still have burning inside. I know that one day the music will end but let’s hope that day is far down the road. Excellent band, excellent interview. Thanks Jeff!!
    greg Houston TX

  • John

    Wow, after being a fan of Rush for 35 years, I have never seen an interview with the guys like this. I feel like I know Geddy and Alex as people now. Great work Jeff! I admire these guys more as people now than just musical geniuses. RUSH IS THE BEST!!! quick question. You mention some UK bands on your schedule. There is another band that has a cult following as Rush does……… will you interview Marillion some day? Marillion is another “unsung” band that many in North America should give a chance!

  • Larry (aka Count Floyd)

    Thanks so much! These guys provided the soundtrack to my life. I feel like I know them like family. I cannot wait for the two T.O. shows! Taking my two boys (one to each show)…I hope they love it as much as I will!

  • gayle

    Last night in Kansas City, I saw Rush for the 1st time. I could not believe I waited so long … your interview was a great discovery as I searched for more about their tour and recent recordings. Geddy, Alex, and Neil are very genuine. Thank you.
    PS I really do like Caravan and was pleased I heard it on the radio prior to the concert.

  • David Stallings

    I’ve been a Rush fan since the early 80′s and have been to 3 of there concerts so far! (I’m taking my wife to Wichita,Kansas for number 4 on the 20th!) With me being so excited about seeing Moving Pictures live, I decided to search the web about Rush and that is when I stumbled across your interview with Alex and Geddy.I truly enjoyed the interview! It was great catching up on the latest about Rush. What I truly enjoyed about your interview was the way it felt more like friends visiting then some of the flashy interviews I’ve seen.Great questions as well! Job well done!

  • Proud Female Rush fan

    Loved this interview…Jeff, you asked some really great questions and I echo a previous comment about how the interview has made me feel more connected with them than ever.

    I’ve seen them on every tour since Power Windows…am turning 40 this Sept and I bought the VIP package for their Boston show, which happens to be 2 days before my 40th birthday. Can’t stand that Ticketmaster is getting hundreds of $ from me but it will be worth it to be up close for the show.

    Jeff…can you please pass this message to Geddy, Alex and Neil if you can:

    ***Thank you for Enhancing my Existence!***

  • Kristen

    This was so awesome, Jeff! Like Greg from Houston, this is my first time hearing you and this was a great interview! I’ve only been a RUSH fan for about a year, but I love them dearly and am always eager to listen to interviews to learn more about these epic musicians and great guys. You asked some great questions and I learned quite a lot. I especially liked how you asked them about the creative process behind most of the Moving Pictures songs. Thanks again!

  • jason 2112

    Great interview! Even after all these years, there is always something new to hear from those guys. Wonderful hearing their insights on artists they were influenced by like Geddy commenting about Les Claypool. I had the awesome experience to see a show with Primus and Rush in L.A. Circa 1992. Man, could they all play! Keep up the good work out there, Jeff! I’ll be seeing the guys in my home town of Las Vegas this August.

  • Johnny Cassin

    Geddy an Alex seem like real down to earth guys. Good people. Great musicians and overly humble. I hope they never stop trying to find what Geddy called,”Our greatest song” …………And Rush with an orchestra would be unbelievable…..

  • Jim S. in Kingwood, TX

    Jeff,
    You are one lucky dude to have had this chance with Geddy and Alex. I’ve been a Rush fan since ’79 and it’s amazing to see their longevity develop. It’s not often that one gets to peer inside “the musician’s studio” but your interview was very insightful…in fact, it was a catalyst for my breaking down and buying the “good seats” at Rush’s upcoming Houston show. Thanks again, Jeff, for presenting such a great professional interview. You rock. ~Jim S.

  • Jim S. in Kingwood, TX

    Jeff,
    You are one lucky dude to have had this chance with Geddy and Alex. I’ve been a Rush fan since ’79 and it’s amazing to see their longevity develop. It’s not often that one gets to peer inside “the musician’s studio” but your interview was very insightful…in fact, it was a catalyst for my breaking down and buying the “good seats” at Rush’s upcoming Houston show. Thanks again, Jeff, for presenting such a great professional interview. You rock. ~Jim S.

  • Rob

    Great interview! Geddy and Alex are still so humble after all these years of rocking hard and making killer albums. It really goes to show you the cailber of people they are, unlike so many other people in their industry that can be completely arrogant. You threw them some great questions, especially the one at the end. Rush with an orchestra? That would be awesome!

  • chad haynie

    Great interview, RUSH ought to be the example for inspiring artists. They know not only know how to play but how to live and I am glad that my children, 10,8 and 4 get to experience the band that I LOVE. My kids enjoy listening to RUSH and they are old enough to now take them to a show. Glad to see a great band like RUSH finally get their due. So many bands come and go but their is only one RUSH and I think time has proven them to be the greatest rock band in the world. They may have never been the most famous but fame does not equate to greatness. The one thing that I would like for RUSH to do before they call it quits is an acoustic album. I think that with Neil’s interest in jazz and Geddys and Alex musical chops they could pull it off and I think this would allow them to reintroduce some material in the past that has been over looked. Anyway great interview.

  • Blake

    Just now got a chance to watch this interview and it was excellent!This was a great way to treat the normal withdraw that you have to go through after comming off of a great night of Rush live!Saw them at Starlight 3 nights ago and I still can’t shake it.I have seen every Rush concert in K.C. since Moving Pictures and they never let me down!

  • Scott

    Great interview. Great questions. Sadly, apparently Geddy isn’t pulling out the Rick for Moving Pictures. Jeff, you have a great way of making your guests feel comfortable. Rush was my first concert back in ’82, and I’m taking my son to his first concert, yep Rush @ Red Rocks on my birthday, August 18th. Thank you for sharing this interview!

  • Mike

    Not once during the whole interview did I get the sense that Geddy or Alex were bored or worse yet,thinking, “Oh God,not THAT QUESTION again” Kudos to you on that,Jeff.

  • Michael

    Mr. Woods,

    Your interview with Alex and Geddy was very informative, full of depth, and allowed me to learn more about the band. I’ve listened to Rush since 1975 and practically grew up with them.

    Thank you for asking some of the very questions I’ve wanted to ask them.

    Kudos!

  • Darren

    Just wanted to echo the sentiment that this was a great interview! You posed some really interesting questions that yielded novel and insightful responses from Alex and Ged. Well done! It’s always refreshing to hear some new perspectives from these guys – like what they would have done if Rush didn’t work out. Alex is always so funny/clever… he would make a great actor/comedian, but I’m sure glad Rush has lasted all this time. Every tour they do seem to get better and better, if that’s even possible! Thanks again.

  • Chris

    There’s not much I can say that hasn’t already been said. What a great job Jeff – and thank you for your efforts and certainly detailed research you did in preparing for the interview. My wife and I are so excited to be attending the 2nd Chicago show as well as the Aug 16th show at Red Rocks (I still pinch myself to know that I was so lucky to get 10th row seats in Denver…I still think it is a dream). For anyone who hasn’t picked up any of Neil’s books, they are certainly a treat. While he is shy about the interviews there are so many detailed and meticulously written accounts of his travels, triumphs and tribulations in his life. Neil also does a great job in a few of them explaining some of his experiences with the fanatic/radical fans who seem to think they have a right to intrude in his personal life (and they don’t). Yet, the warm and giving person that is certainly Neil stands out so well. I will buying Rush tickets, “albums” (LOL, per the interview) and Neil’s books as long as they wish to produce them! I think Neil should consider recording some of his books via Audible in his own (wonderfully rich and comforting) voice. If he doesn’t wish to do that, Jeff maybe you’d be a great second choice :) .

    Jeff, your willingness to respond to all of the posts here is also remarkable. Thank you for an excellent interview and your insights.

  • ron beretta

    jeff, truly a marvelous job interviewing two of my favorite musicians. i was fortunate enough to meet Geddy ten years ago, he is such a down to earth and sincere person, as is alex as well. so good to hear some more of the behind the scenes stories about Rush and theiur music, and again, you truly did a GREAT JOB!!!!!

  • Tracy "Trace" Wysocki

    Jeff,

    First & foremost; outstanding presentation of questions. Not sure how you developed the questions (whether they were your own or fan based) but there were questions that I have wanted to ask both Al & Geddy that you presented. Another fan mentioned that there are always things you did not know previously & this interview was certainly one of them. I have been a loyal fan since 1981 though I have listened to Rush since about 1976. My loyalty from 1981 was driven from the free tickets to see Moving Pictures in Tucson AZ. Now after 30 years, I get to see them play MP in its entirety as my wife & I will see them in Bristow, VA. Additionally I have developed a medley of their music from my audio editor & would love to share with you/them. Please let me know if I can send it to you.
    Again; great job on your presentation.

    Regards,

    Trace

  • Fer

    I’m brasileiro” my ingles is not so good”, só queria mandar meus mais sinceros votos de agradecimento, por todos estes anos que estes “boys” do Canadá me tem acompanhado, na alegria e na tristesa…thanks Rush, long live rock

  • Liz

    Excellent interview, thank you for sharing this! I’ve loved Rush’s music for over 25 years, and it’s so interesting to hear insights on the creative process behind their work.

    What distinguishes this band from so many others is not just what they create, but how they create it: with passion, intelligence, integrity, friendship, and a driving curiosity to keep getting even better. I started listening to Rush in the mid-eighties and worked my way backwards through their catalogue. I was immediately struck by how they’d developed a distinctive sound of their own, and yet were able to grow and experiment with so many different directions over the years. Snakes & Arrows and the two new singles are some of the best work they’ve ever done, and I can’t wait to hear the complete new album. Also looking forward to the R50 tour :)

    Cheers,
    Liz from Winnipeg, Canada

  • Mark

    A quite simply superb and really enjoyable interview, Jeff – made an hour seem like 5 minutes; totally engaging, and totally informative. Just need for the boys to come and play again in my home town of Liverpool, England – which they’ve not done since the Hemispheres tour, and when I was too young to appreciate them!! At least we have an arena to host them now!! Thanks again. Mark.

  • butch

    thanx for doing the interview i’m glad that i got to see it and if you do anymore with them please post on facebook would like to see one with neil if that ever happens…….he is a great drummer and lyricist(think i spelled that right)
    once again thank you for doing this

  • butch

    thanx for doing the interview i’m glad that i got to see it and if you do anymore with them please post on facebook would like to see one with neil if that ever happens…….he is a great drummer and lyricist(think i spelled that right)
    once again thank you for doing this

  • Bill Yeomans

    Great interview Jeff, as always your legends of classic rock episodes are informative and entertaining. I’m a Rush fan from the first album (which is still my favourite). A good friend brought it over along with Physical Graffiti for me to hear for the first time. Needless to say I was blown away by both albums and my fate was sealed as a Rush fan. Saw them for the first time at Hamilton Place on the Caress of Steel Tour with Ian Thomas opening. Saw them 12 times more through Moving Pictures with many back to back shows when they played three nights at Maple Leaf Gardens on New Years Eve. Took a 26 year break and saw them again during the Snakes & Arrows tour and like Alex said in the interview they are getting better with age, they are so comfortable on stage. You mentioned you can hear Jeff Beck’s influence on the new song and for me live during the S&A tour he had some magnificant David Gilmour moments. Just got the new doc on DVD and it was like it was made just for me. They have always felt like they were my local band made good and I have always been proud of the success they’ve achieved outside of Canada. Looking forward to seeing them in 2 weeks at the ACC, I’m bringing a friend along who has never seen them before, paying it forward I guess to my old buddy from 1975.
    Thanks for the great interview,
    Cheers,
    Bill

  • Brent Armstrong

    Jeff, I worked with you at Sony in the “Toronto Branch.” Nice interview and nice career! I watched the interview from start to finish. Rush is easily my favourite band and they continue to impress me with every release/tour.

    Great job.

  • Reiner from Ayr Ontario

    Thank you for taking the time to ask the questions I would have loved to ask them. Two years ago I took each one of my sons to two different shows, this time, I get to take them both to the same show at the ACC. My older son (23) is named after Alex so I don’t need to emphasis my allegiance to what I have known for many years. that Rush provides a ready guide for modern living. These guys ooze integrity and virtue that seem to be, sadly, all too uncommon. Friendship is the underlying theme and demonstrates how that “power” can facilitate and nurture the human condition, and persevere all that a modern day warrior may face on our own lighted stage.
    Well done sir, and all the best to you!
    “The bell tolls for thee”
    Regards!
    R

  • Jennifer

    Oh wow! I so enjoyed this interview! I have to admit- it’s the first time “meeting you” Jeff- but I ABSOLUTELY loved the interview and questions asked!! I actually caught the first 1/2 of the interview on Saturday, July 3rd before I headed to Milwaukee to see the guys for the 5th time, I’ve been a fan now for 23 years-Moving Pictures WAS the album that got me hooked at the age of 15!! Finally had time to sit tonight and finish watching the 2nd half. Saturday was just an absolutely ROCKING show and I cannot wait to see them the next time. I guess I’ve always thought the guys were very down to earth- but the interview done with your guidance solidified my thoughts.
    Again- thank your for sharing this opportunity to get to know Rush a little bit better! :)

  • Mick Van Ooyen

    About 30 years ago I was at a party in North York. I met a guy named (if I remember correctly) Ian. He claimed to be a roadie for RUSH. I thought he was full of crap. A little while later, my boss told me to set up some portable radios for pick up that day. Said it was a ‘rush job’. Later that day, in walks Ian to pick them up! Should have asked for tickets!!

  • Marybeth

    Thank you so much for helping fans connect even easier with these super-talented three guys. I have been a fan since grade 7 way back in the mid-1970s. I had a classmate who was absolutely obsessed with this band; his entire wardrobe consisted of RUSH t-shirts and the band’s logo was handdrawn on every one his bookcovers. He told me to just listen to the band to see why he loved them. Of course, I did and I have been in love with this band ever since. What makes this band special is their obvious joy in performing together, even after 40 years. It is evident on stage and in interviews such as this one. It isn’t simply a job to be endured. I also love their sense of humour, and am glad to see that it hasn’t diminished over the years. A final reason for their longevity is their muscianship and song-writing. I have loved their lyrics and have actually learned a few things over the years. Really! Neil writed thought-provoking lyrics while Geddy and Alex arrange the notes so well. When listening to their music, it is easy to pick out their individual parts, which are awesome individually, but blended together, the sum of the parts is brilliant as a whole. It never fails to amaze me that these are just three regular boring (according to them…LOL!) that just happen to be legendary performers, even with all that has happened over the years both personally and professionally. I feel fortunate, grateful and thankful to have had the enjoyment offered by these guys over the years. Sorry to have babbled on, but where this band is concerned, I simply can’t help it…LOL! BTW, can you ask Geddy what has happened to his Jays? It seems like once they lost Halliday, they have kind of tanked. Of course, it is near the All-Star break, and my beloved Texas Rangers seem to be choking-as usual. :-) Also, how do the guys feel about their star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame? I bet it was kind of surreal for them, especially since the Rock & Roll Hall of SHAME [Eddie Trunk's name for them] can’t see fit to induct them. I echo Eddie’s sentiment regarding that one. [He verbally and physically flipped off the RRHOS on a recent show.]

  • Brian

    As others have already said here, you ask the questions that most Rush fans would ask directly. My first show was during the ‘Signals’ tour and my latest was on the ‘R30′ tour. Looking forward to seeing them on their current swing through “the States”. Great interview. Thank you.

  • alan stott

    cheers jeff what a band no eggos great interview get them to scotland your invited alan

  • Ken

    Great interview. Always enjoy your insight and the questions were very intuitive to say the least. I have not missed a Rush tour in since 1975 and will be attending 3 shows this time around two with my sons. I am a drummer and have been amazed by Neil’s playing for decades. The keyboard player in my band grew up in the St. Kitt’s area and knew Neil quite well in those days and he was recently involved in documentry and show entitled The Big Story of Small Potatoes, Niagara’s Rock Music History 1964-74. Paul Miil produced it and as a music historian I am sure you would find it interesting. While Neil was not interviewed in the movie he is acknowledged many times and specifically with the band JR Flood at Brockfest 1970. Keep up the great work brother! Ken

  • Chris Aug

    Great interview! Jeff has such a great voice, very welcoming and knowledgeable. He does a great job in the unauthorized RUSH documentaries too.

    Geddy and Alex are so relaxed and engaging. As a long-time fan (started listening when 2112 came out and never looked back again—although, honestly, they did start to lose me a bit in the 80′s, but I thankfully hung in there!).

    I am curious to find out if other long-time RUSH fans were as somewhat disappointed with the ‘Beyond the Lighted Stage’ documentary as I was. I guess it would be a great start for a non-RUSH fan but for me, I didn’t think it told me much more than I already knew. I was hoping to see/hear/find our more about the earlier music. Maybe a bonus track or two (Garden Road, Not Fade Away, etc).

    Don’t get me wrong…I still loved every bit of it, but there’s just so much history there they barely touched on much of it. No mention of Cygnus, no mention of the “Feedback” EP, no mention of Alex’s solo effort or work with other bands, Same for Geddy. No mention of the Great White North.

    The bonus features were somewhat a bummer too. Outside of some great stuff (Rutsey and band doing “Best I Can”), why did they include segments from DVDs we already own? What a disappointment.

    Anyway, just wanted to know if it was just me…

  • Daniel

    Since the very first time I heard 2112 ( I think I was 15/16? now almost 47, my thoughts and feelings about music had forever changed.It really showed me what music could be and how it can affect us as an individual. That was a real turning point from what I had and still do listen to, The Who, YES, AC/DC, Pink Floyd, Jeff Beck and so many others. It was a great question about “concept” VS. “cherry picked” or rather the sum of the parts as a group. Their albums for are much like a book, a story. I couldn’t imagine only reading one or two chapters. The 1st Moving Pictures tour was my 1st concert ever I even waited in line for 2 days in San Diego. Now, it comes full circle, to see it in it’s full production…well, life is good, after seeing Rush 19 times I’m still as excited to see them in August Outsisde of Seattle as I was the 1st time. Great interview!
    Thanks,
    Daniel, Seattle WA.

  • anna

    Thanks for this interview, Jeff. I only truly began to appreciate the music of Rush 2 summers ago when I saw them in my, as well as Alex and Geddy’s, home town. It was easily the BEST concert I have ever seen. I can hardly wait to see them again on the 13th! My husband has been a fan since he was 10 years old and that’s going back over 30 years. He finally convinced me to see them in concert and I now understand why he’s such a loyal fan. I was very excited to show this interview to him and we watched it together. He said there was stuff you uncovered that even a long time fan, such as himself did not know. My “Beyond the Lighted Stage” DVD just arrived today. Will sit and watch with the hubby as soon as he gets in. Thanks again for an excellent interview. The hour just flew by!

  • Kenny

    Thank You Jeff for providing great insight from your guests, Alex & Geddy. I’m curious as to how Alex was approached to do work on Porcupine Tree’s album, Fear of a Blank Planet & also his appearance on Trailer Park Boys. I’m assuming he’s a fan of the show. Spectacular interview…thank you.

  • Dave C

    Wow – imagine “Hemispheres” to an orchestra!

  • Joseph Palermo

    Thanks Jeff for this great interview, I had the joy of meeting them opening night in Atlanta for The Snakes & Arrows tour. When I had the chance to speak to them I believe I came across as Ralph Kramden. I’ve been to opening night and Summerfest so far this tour, and sat front row WHAT A JOY! next tour stop for us with be Air Canada center. 75 shows for me and still never enough. Thanks, Joe from Tampa, Florida

  • Paul S.

    Well done. Been a fan since ’80, these guys are still awesome. Wish they were coming to Cleveland! Maybe they still can …

  • Paul S.

    Well done. Been a fan since ’80, these guys are still awesome. Wish they were coming to Cleveland! Maybe they still can …

  • BT

    Jeff – First interview I have watched of yours – great job. I’ve been a fan of Rush since the mid-80′s and have seen them numberous times. Thank you for posting and conducting such a great interview.

  • Louise

    First of all a massive thanks for doing such an excellent interview both in terms of depth, length and general ease and openness with the guys, I really enjoyed it. And secondly thank you so much for including the question of European dates!! As an English Rush fan who got into the band aged 16 a couple of years ago and have never had the chance to see them live, this was a most important question!! I just only hope next year will be my chance, because oh boy will I take advantage of it!

    Thanks again, its interviews like this that really get you into a band more and make you appeciate the personnel that goes into creating some of the best music ever!!

  • tc

    As a kid growing up, I was always looking for more in depth information on Rush. They weren’t on TV much, (except for MTV broadcasting the Grace Under Pressure Tour, for which I made specific plans to visit a relative who had both cable TV, and a VCR! I not-so-coincidentally brought a blank tape so I could record it, “oh, wow, Rush is on, hmmm, I just happen to have a blank tape…” and I still have the VHS!) Oddly enough, in 1981, I once was only an arms length away from Alex and Geddy at a hotel, and I had my Moving Pictures LP ready to get signed. I backed off as I saw all these other kids and swarming around them, I quickly got pushed out of the way. I never got my autograph but I felt like I heeded the message in Limelight, after seeing the others being so pushy.

    I really enjoyed this great interview and the opportunity to learn more about the band. I think it’s the best interview I have seen or read to date! It’s great to be able to say that 30+ years after my first Rush album and and show, I am still enjoying and relating to the band and the music. Can’t wait to see them in Syracuse!
    Upstate NY

  • Paul Young

    Really enjoyed watching your interview. I’m in London England, and have been a Rush fan since the Signals LP. Have seen them live 4 times, last time was R30 at Wembley. Have read all Neil Peart’s books but was nice to hear Geddy and Alex talking openly about their grandkids and tennis!
    Have enjoyed the music of Rush, intelligent lyrics, thought provoking, musically so well crafted, they have been the theme tune to my life. Thanks Jeff. Hope they come back to Europe in 2011!

  • Rob

    Great interview, my brother first got me into Rush and at the age of 12 the record was Moving Pictures, thought provoking lyrics and songs, hope the guys bring the tour to the UK and play Moving Pictures in its entirity or at least Through The Camera Eye.
    Thanks,
    Rob.

  • Shooter

    To the point…this is why there is only one Rush. I love the friendship and integrity that they have put into all things they do. Even the swag is great, all though there be too much of it.

  • Ron M

    Thank You! Great Job!

  • Ron M

    Thank You! Great Job!

  • bruce flannagan

    jeff brilliant chat with two of the greatest musicians in the rock world first seen rush in the appolo glasgow 1979,good to know from yout chat they are coiming to europe,my lasting description of rush band members , 3 musicians who could step into any rock band in the world .this interview and the many other ways in the modern world which are now making rush more accessible to a bigger audience can only be good but i still get out my wonderful vinyl album covers and read those fantastic descriptions of how the album was made and all the equipment used at the time,your interview made two pretty reserved guys at ease to answer your questions honestly.long live rush

  • Neil

    Jeff – thank you for such a great interview. I always look forward to hearing what one of my favourite bands are doing, and your excellent interview gave an in-depth view of their history as well as their more recent activities. I was especially interested to hear about the film, the writing process for the new album and the background for the current tour. I’m really looking forward to the album release and keeping my fingers crossed for a UK tour in 2011… Cheers!

  • Jackie

    Jeff

    THANK YOU! We Rush fans have been waiting for eons for the kind of material we have been given this year, first on the “Beyond The Lighted Stage” DVD and now with your interview.

    As a Rush fan for 34 years (and a girl, unusual I know) I guess I’m like most in as much as we know almost everything there is to know musically about the band but the film and this interview have given us more of an insight about the brotherhood they have and their influences and thoughts.

    First saw them on the Kings tour in Glasgow, Scotland in February 1978 and hoping to see them in Glasgow next year. Please – more interviews with them like this in the future!

    Jackie

  • Jackie

    Jeff

    THANK YOU! We Rush fans have been waiting for eons for the kind of material we have been given this year, first on the “Beyond The Lighted Stage” DVD and now with your interview.

    As a Rush fan for 34 years (and a girl, unusual I know) I guess I’m like most in as much as we know almost everything there is to know musically about the band but the film and this interview have given us more of an insight about the brotherhood they have and their influences and thoughts.

    First saw them on the Kings tour in Glasgow, Scotland in February 1978 and hoping to see them in Glasgow next year. Please – more interviews with them like this in the future!

    Jackie

  • Paul Lofting

    Thanks guys, really appreciated your time to do the interview; ever Rush hungry UK fan for thirty years can’t wait for a return visit (hopefully less than ten years). Jeff, I liked your questioning about the guys old intruments and found it quite revealing. I wonder if the guys actually have some of their early equipment still or if they let anything go and regreted it.

  • Bill

    Jeff – Thanks to an indulgent hour of your interview! Thank you for your interesting and probing questions. Looking forward to their Sept 21st show in Tulsa – 25 years fan, and 25 years since in Tulsa. Slappin’ the bass!
    Bill – Tulsa, OK

  • Mike Artz (a.k.a. analog kid)

    Awesome interview Jeff. It’s always interesting to learn a few tidbits about the creative process that is Rush. Geddy let me strum his Rick at a soundcheck at the old Chicago Amphitheater back in 78 and I’ve seen then 40 times in 5 states since. I’ll be there at the R50 tour as well

  • Robert

    Great interview! Saw “Beyond the Lighted Stage”, in Indy back in June, and loved it. I just want to know one thing. How are we going to get them in the Rock -n- Roll Hall of Fame in the U.S.?

  • Mel Gasser

    After seeing “Beyond the lighted stage”, I thought there was no more I could learn from Rush, that it’d all been said, you did a great job of finding some new and interesting stories from the boys.

    Best regards and well done.
    Mel.

  • Dan

    Glad to see their still enjoying it as much as ever. Wonderful done interview, it was nice to see the personal side of the guys. I’ll been a long time fan,was hooked ever since I heard the phrase: The Professer on the drums. I’ve seen them every time that they apeared in Portland Oregon since the Hemispher’s tour.Took both sons to see Snakes & Arrows and will enjoy their company
    again as we travel north to Auburn Washington to see Time Machine. My favorite band, I’ve got their entire library on my
    i-pod, RUSH rocks.

  • CSABA

    Alex said it very well in the last interview I have been a Rush fan for over thirty years and they are better now than they ever have been. Rush just keeps getting better!

  • Tom Carp

    When Rush was formed in 1968 I was 3 years old. I didn’t really discover them until 2112 was released. They have been my all-time favorite band ever since. I’ve seen every tour since Moving Pictures. I have every album and DVD. Having said all this, the biggest thrill for me has been their longevity. Bands come and go and the fact that these 3 guys sound better than ever says something about them.
    PS- Great Interview Jeff!

  • Tom

    Super interview!! I have been a Rush fan since the beginning. Both of my kids love Rush as well (son is 13 and daughter 7). My son has been to 2 concerts and my daughter has said that it is her turn to go to one now. They both have been listening to Rush from the day they were born. Rush is the one band that they both can pick out if my wife and I are changing radio stations; they here Rush and we have to stop to listen then we can move on.

    I do believe that it is time for the Rock-n-Roll Hall of Fame to place RUSH where they belong. THE ROCK-N-ROLL HALL OF FAME main stream band they are not but they have influenced so many bands. Please wake up and smell the roses. THank you for a Great Interview.

  • Rod

    I think it would be great if Rush could make it to the Sturgis Motorcycle Ralley.. in South Dakota. I’m sure it too late this year to get in, but might want to think about it in 2011.

  • Stuart Hodgetts

    Jeff – what a privelege to see such a refreshingly fresh interview with the band. Thankyou for a great job. No chance the lads will come down under for a tour….guess I’ll have to mortgage the house to buy air and concert tickets – again!

    Onya mate.

    Stuart
    Perth, Western Australia

  • Ken

    Thanks for a great interview. I met you when you were working at Q104 in HFX, and you came over to co-host my show on Dalhousie radio CKDU-FM. Keep on rockin’.

  • russel pedersen

    ” we haven’t written our best song…”

    Mr Woods
    RUSH has yet to create a song that hasn’t touched me on an emotional level…how common this human experience must be…their music, my soundtrack. They are my Beatles. How blessed I am to be dancing around the sun at the same time with these 3 friends from willowdale. May they never write their best song, and may I roll to all those that have yet to be created. Big thanks to their families for letting the boys come out to play eh.

  • Randy H

    Jeff,

    Great questions and professionalism – very enjoyable. Sadly, I moved to West Texas on the very day they opened in Albuquerque (closest venue) and will miss my first tour since Roll the Bones. These guys are my heroes for the simple fact that they are so funny, down-to-earth, and real after all these years. Great job!

    Randy Henderson
    Plains, TX

  • Colin

    Great interview Jeff it was nice to sit and listen to your questions. This was my first opportunity to see you “work” and I must say very professional and articulate. I am a Canadian that has grown up with Rush and have seen them 20 plus times and I am always completely in awe of their musicianship. I think their humility is a true sign of where they come from. As it was written in an earlier comment today’s bands could learn a lesson or two on how to present themselves and not to let arrogance and ego’s get in the way of who they truly are. Fantastic interview Jeff and I certainly have become a fan of what you do. I will be attending the August 14th show in Vegas and cannot wait for that day to come. thank you for the insight and carry on with the great work.

  • Patrick R.

    Incredibly interesting and informative. The interview was very well done. However, (referencing the “part 1″ interview) I am a bit anguished (for lack of a better word) that Rush would come to Nashville to record, yet our fair city is not on their concert schedule. Aaaaarrrrrgggghhh!!!! We have a 20,000 seat downtown arena that’s itching to host a Rush show!

  • Chris Tulach

    Fantastic interview, Jeff! You really have a great rapport with Alex and Geddy, and I never can get over how even-keeled and identifiable they are as conversationalists and artists. I think that’s what makes their accomplishments all that more impressive – they serve as great inspirations to creative individuals everywhere.

    As a huge Rush fan (I flew from Seattle to Milwaukee to see them last Saturday), I was directed here through the newsletter, but now I definitely have to check out more of your interviews!

  • Scott

    Loved the interview! Thank you Geddy and Alex for taking the time and sharing. I feel like I have grown up with the band. I think the first concert I attended was the Permanent Waves tour or maybe the Moving Pictures tour (it’s been so long). I just saw RUSH again in Milwaukee, July 3rd 2010. As usual I was blown away. Everything about the show was incredible. I loved all the movies and the set was fantastic! Neil’s drum kit is by far the most intricate and detailed as it has ever been. You guys crack me up with all the comedy. I really appreciate the way in which you shared your lives for the movie. I saw it in the theater and promptly bought a Blu-ray on release day. Speaking of train wrecks… Alex amazed us all when he never missed a beat after his guitar failed in the beginning of La Villa Strangiato. The “train wreck” was nothing more than a little speed bump. Geddy covered perfectly. It’s the first time in all the times I’ve seen the band play where things weren’t other than perfect throughout. Eagerly looking forward to a new album and possibly another tour. I appreciate all the hard work the band puts into everything they’ve done and keeping tickets to concerts very reasonably priced. Thanks again!!!

  • tvoomy2112

    Catch the spirit…Catch the fish!

  • Timo

    Thank you for this excellent interview. I’ve been waiting quite a while for an interview that revealed as much information as yours has. Rush has been my favorite band for almost four years now(a long time for me, being only 14), a good friend of mine(who idolizes Neil, and, frankly, reminds me of him in terms of his shyness and talent) showed me them by singing the chorus of Roll the Bones over and over again until I finally went on itunes and downloaded the most popular songs, obviously including Roll the Bones. I must have sat in my room for hours just listening to those ten or so songs, now I have over 100 Rush songs and I still haven’t gotten several of their albums. My family gets sick of hearing me in the basement playing my bass along to them. I can’t wait for the 24th of July to see them at Jones Beach, and next spring when the new album might come out. My only request is that it feature a mini epic of some sort. Anyway, I’d like to thank you again Jeff for the great interview and I’d like to thank Alex, Geddy and the absent Neil for having made and continuing to make top-notch music and saving me from the music that pollutes the airwaves nowadays.

  • Timo

    Thank you for this excellent interview. I’ve been waiting quite a while for an interview that revealed as much information as yours has. Rush has been my favorite band for almost four years now(a long time for me, being only 14), a good friend of mine(who idolizes Neil, and, frankly, reminds me of him in terms of his shyness and talent) showed me them by singing the chorus of Roll the Bones over and over again until I finally went on itunes and downloaded the most popular songs, obviously including Roll the Bones. I must have sat in my room for hours just listening to those ten or so songs, now I have over 100 Rush songs and I still haven’t gotten several of their albums. My family gets sick of hearing me in the basement playing my bass along to them. I can’t wait for the 24th of July to see them at Jones Beach, and next spring when the new album might come out. My only request is that it feature a mini epic of some sort. Anyway, I’d like to thank you again Jeff for the great interview and I’d like to thank Alex, Geddy and the absent Neil for having made and continuing to make top-notch music and saving me from the music that pollutes the airwaves nowadays.

  • Todd from Tulsa

    Excellent, informative and very cool. I love these guys so much. Im preparing to take my kids to their 2nd Rush concert when they come to Tulsa in Sep 10. So nice to be able to take my kids and not have to worry about filthy language or any other stuff. Just great music.

  • Tim

    For them to say the best is yet to come simply blows me away! If the best is yet to come, I will be a super-fan forever! GREAT interview Jeff. You got to the core and really helped them share some incredible thoughts and ideas! I’m just bummed that Neil wasn’t there… He is GOD in my drumlike eyes! Superb job Jeff, and thanks again!

  • Tyler

    I cannot classify my favorite bands any more closely than this, but Rush is my favorite CANADIAN band; ahead of The Tragically Hip and The Guess Who. I’m from the Niagara Region too, so I feel a kind of home town connection with them. It’s inexplicable, but I know every Rush fan feels it, it’s when you’re driving in your car listening to the radio and a Rush song comes on, it just brings a smile to your face and you can’t help but drive a little faster, sing out loud, and treat your steering wheel like an old set of drums.
    Alex said it best in the interview, when you realize someone you look up to and idolize is just a normal person, like you, you can’t help but fall in love with them. I’d like to thank you for bringing this opportunity, for lack of a better term, to us Jeff. I’m a very proud 21 year old Rush Fan and I WISH I could afford tickets to one of their upcoming shows in Toronto… It’s nothing short of a tragedy that every time Rush swings by, is when I can’t reasonably afford to buy a concert ticket :( . I don’t suppose that the awesome host of ‘The Legends Of Classic Rock’ would have some tickets lying around for that show? – I’m just shooting in the dark here Jeff, but if you do, could you please hook me up? Lol!

    Thanks again for doing this interview Jeff!!! It was greatly appreciated by myself and many other fans!

  • Dolph

    What an incredible interview! RUSH is such an important part of my life. I have been a RUSH fan since the mid 80′s after hearing my step-brother’s vinyl albums. I was immediately blown away by the lyrics and could not believe the sound came from three guys. My whole family are RUSH fanatics. My wife and 3 kids (9, 6 and 4) all love RUSH. When I ran my first marathon, I taped “Marathon” on my walkman and played it repeatedly during my training runs. I have all of their cd’s, dvd’s, etc. With the upcoming concert(s) at Red Rocks, I can picture a future live DVD called “RUSH at Red Rocks”. I know Neil will be riding his bike through the Rockies! The one question I would like to have answered that was not in the new DVD nor in your interview was “How did the group name RUSH come about?” Thanks for your thoughtful questions and great interview!

  • Mark Dombroski

    I am impressed with these guys! These are real and sincere people who are not arrogant. They are humble and considerate of others and their fans.

  • Joe

    Haven’t caught the interview yet. Works web access is filtering out the actual presentation content. Will catch it at home.

    I migrated to Australia from the UK late 2005. My ‘only’ regret since has been that Australia is a Rush free zone.

    They love the likes of Kiss, ACDC, Iron Maiden and the likes who have all toured here, but from what I can glean, Australia and Rush have never met.

    I would love them to consider approaching the Melbourne F1 organising committee to have them guest the post race concert.

    Surely a way to offset the costs of any possible tour over here.

    Even considered flying to LA with my daughter (14 who is a keen fan, wonder where she got that influence from), for the comming tour, but, as women tend to, the missus made me see the economic reality.

    Have seen them 4 times live and each occassion marks a special memory in my life just as Rush music has set the tempo of my life since 1980 when I discovered 2112.

  • tONY

    Excellent interview, excellent. One thing I would have asked that wasn’t brought up, although somewhat trivial, is: Before the Jacob’s Ladder song on Exit Stage Left, there is a reference to a T.C. Burnsey. (If I am hearing Geddy right) Who might that be and what is the reference to?

  • Paul G.

    Great interview, Thank you! Next time, allow me to send you guys a few bottles of wine as I want to experience the humor that’s sure to ensue. Alex is such a crack up.
    I remember Metallica doing the orchestra thing but I didn’t “get it” with them. As soon as Geddy mentioned it with Rush, though, “ding” – That’s the ticket! Definitely will be there for that!
    Thank you, Jeff, for your insightful questions and Thank You to Rush for being the band and the persons you are! You’ve inspired, entertained, challenged and soothed me for so many years; Thank You again!

  • Pól Bond

    What a great way to start my day!! just got the e-mial from the band and followed the link..sitting here, summertime blues and bang! I’m a haapy man. Great interview Jeff -fantastic questions ..deeper than the usual “whatcha doin?” type.. I have loved Rush for the last 30 years and feel like I have grown up with them and (hopefully) matured along the way. I saw Rush in London (two nights-when I was young and free!!) and I really hope they come to Europe again this time. Great questions about the guitars-I think Alex is one of the very best guitarists and Neil…well need I say it. Thanks for making may day!!

  • Steve Vrosch

    Jeff, I’ve been a RUSH fan sicne they started to emerge into the vinyl scene. I grew up in Toronto and my best friend gave me 2112 for my birthday. From then on I was hooked. I now live in The Netherlands (since ’76 no thanks to my parents who came from here) but I still buy everything they put out there. At 50 years old I still play Working Man in my heard when I’m on my bicycle to work, it’s what gets me in the mood. I like the new stuff RUSH brings out but I still love the old school music. These days the world has very few icons and hero’s( you know people to look up to) and these three guys are exactly what we need. Not only their music but their outlook on life and their friendship and ultimatly their loyalty to the fans. The lyrics give you stuff to think about their humor is a delight and just being there for us so long kind of makes them a part of ever fans family and friends. sorry for the long haul but this was one big one on my to do list in life. Thanks for the intervieuw you are a true professional with a great respect and inerest for your guests. It’s a pleasure to have seen this. grtz from Holland. Steve

  • Alan Thain(Aberdeen,Scotland)

    Jeff, thanks for giving us this great interview with Alex and Geddy.It’s great to see them still enjoying playing and striving to improve on their years of knowledge on all aspects of music.I have been a fan since the day at school (late 70′s) when I found inside a desk in a class an album – Caress of Steel – took it home and that was me hooked on the band.My 1st car trip after passing test was to drive 150 miles to Glasgow,Scotland in ’79 to see them at the Glasgow Apollo and Permanent Waves tour (got my 1st parking ticket too!).Since then I have seen the band at various venues in the U.K.,but this summer I will see them again when on holiday in Syracuse N.Y. and I cant wait!As a motorcyclist who has toured all over Europe I have loved reading about Neil’s road trips and I can relate to many of his Alpine road stories(esp when he demanded to do ‘The STELVIO’ in Italy).I love travelling and to go to abroad and see Rush overseas soon will be an unbelievable experience!I know they will put on a great show ! Thanks again for the interview and bringing me up to speed with the band.

  • Lindsay

    Wonderful interview – thank you so much. When I saw the movie & Billy Corgan talks about playing Entre Nous to his Mom, I was stunned. I did the exact same thing to my Mom along with making her watch MTV with me back in the day. Rush is & always will be the soundtrack for my life. Thanks again.

  • Nacho Pinto

    I’m from Buenos Aires, Argentina and I first listened to Rush when I was 12 years old, 25 years ago (that´s pretty much) and during all this time mi mission in this planet become to spread their music in this side of the world. Thank you guys for all your music and lyrics, hope to see you playing in my country soon. After that I may rest in peace, AGUANTE RUSHHH!!!!!

  • JB

    Thanks so much for one of the best interviews of Geddy and Alex I’ve seen. Outside their music, one thing I’ve always loved about Rush that shows well in this interview is their humble attitudes – they’re regular guys who made it big in rock music and somehow they’re still regular guys, not burned-out and washed-up egos like so many rock stars turn out to be. Thanks again, JB

  • Patrick

    Simply put, they are the best personally and professionally. The most exciting part was Alex’s comment that they will probably support the new album with another tour in 2011. We go to 3 or 4 shows on each tour as my earnings has finally caught up with my passion for their music. I hope that when they decide to call it quits, they will let the fans know via a formal farewell tour…perhaps with 5 straight sold out nights in Toronto! I may have to see them 10+ times when that day comes! Great job with the interview….classy people on both sides.

  • Pete Provenzano

    Hi Jeff! Kudos on a great interview with the guys! For those of you out there that have not yet realized, Rush is NOT back… because they have never left. I do notice, however, that they are now getting the respect and admiration from those that might have overlooked their contributions and influences until recently. As a guy who literally grew up listening to Rush and seeing them on every tour since Signals, I am loving the fact that their friendship, integrity, and humble nature are the focus of the new film and that everyone who watches it can understand what Rush fans have known for decades. Jeff, thank you again for your genuine approach to this interview and thank you Alex, Geddy, and Neil for helping to make my life a better ride through your music and overall coolness. I’ll see you in Toronto in a little over a week!

  • Scott

    Loved the interview; only thing I missed was talking about the other “back side” songs of Moving Pictures, Witch Hunt and Vital Signs.

    Can’t wait to see them in Houston!

  • Rush Fan

    Witch Hunt an awsome song!I saw Rush perform it in Vegas, the crowd went nuts!

  • Marcus Prescott

    Tried to get through this whole thing but the host is too annoying.

  • Bill Cannon

    Excellent interview Jeff! It was almost like a bonus disk to “Beyond The Lighted Stage!” Like most of the fans on this post, I too, became a Rush fan after “Moving Pictures.” I have since collected just about everything they have recorded. Well, at least, main stream stuff! I’m eagerly awaiting their stop here in Dallas, Texas in September…On my birthday, no less! It’s great to hear insight of the band and they way that they share their thoughts. They seem like normal guys, and I think that you have proved that they are! I know Neil is a “private” person, but it would sure be nice to hear more interviews with him. If not, then he just needs to write more books! I love his writing and wish he would write more! Thanks again Jeff…you did an outstanding job on the interview!

  • Lena Papp

    Hi Jeff,
    I just got to watch your interview and really appreciated the questions and subjects you brought up. I’ve been a diehard RUSH fan since the tender age of 16, that was back in 1976 when 2112 came out. Like Steve in the Netherlands I still love the first albums and drive aroud in my Peugeot with Working Man blaring out the open windows! I hope that when RUSH comes to Europe they play in Paris.
    I can’t wait to see them on July 17th in the ACC in Toronto which is my hometown even though I now live in Brittany France. Please tell Geddy and Alex and whoever else they’d like to bring that here in winelover’s paradise they are quite welcome for some excellent wine tasting with of course the best cuisine in the world. Bonjour from lardette paradise!
    Lena in Rennes

  • Lena Papp

    Hi Jeff,
    I just got to watch your interview and really appreciated the questions and subjects you brought up. I’ve been a diehard RUSH fan since the tender age of 16, that was back in 1976 when 2112 came out. Like Steve in the Netherlands I still love the first albums and drive aroud in my Peugeot with Working Man blaring out the open windows! I hope that when RUSH comes to Europe they play in Paris.
    I can’t wait to see them on July 17th in the ACC in Toronto which is my hometown even though I now live in Brittany France. Please tell Geddy and Alex and whoever else they’d like to bring that here in winelover’s paradise they are quite welcome for some excellent wine tasting with of course the best cuisine in the world. Bonjour from lardette paradise!
    Lena in Rennes

  • Lena Papp

    Hi Jeff,
    I just got to watch your interview and really appreciated the questions and subjects you brought up. I’ve been a diehard RUSH fan since the tender age of 16, that was back in 1976 when 2112 came out. Like Steve in the Netherlands I still love the first albums and drive aroud in my Peugeot with Working Man blaring out the open windows! I hope that when RUSH comes to Europe they play in Paris.
    I can’t wait to see them on July 17th in the ACC in Toronto which is my hometown even though I now live in Brittany France. Please tell Geddy and Alex and whoever else they’d like to bring that here in winelover’s paradise they are quite welcome for some excellent wine tasting with of course the best cuisine in the world. Bonjour from lardette paradise!
    Lena in Rennes

  • Lena Papp

    Hi Jeff,
    I just got to watch your interview and really appreciated the questions and subjects you brought up. I’ve been a diehard RUSH fan since the tender age of 16, that was back in 1976 when 2112 came out. Like Steve in the Netherlands I still love the first albums and drive aroud in my Peugeot with Working Man blaring out the open windows! I hope that when RUSH comes to Europe they play in Paris.
    I can’t wait to see them on July 17th in the ACC in Toronto which is my hometown even though I now live in Brittany France. Please tell Geddy and Alex and whoever else they’d like to bring that here in winelover’s paradise they are quite welcome for some excellent wine tasting with of course the best cuisine in the world. Bonjour from lardette paradise!
    Lena in Rennes

  • Scott

    I’m glad to hear the guys saying increasingly that they aren’t going to impose an age limit on the lifespan of the band. As long as they love what they are doing then why not? Jeff I don’t recall what album came out the first time I listened to you do one of these segments but it wouldn’t be the same without it.

  • D Woods

    Hi Jeff, great seeing this. I’ve been a Rush fan forever and I remember you from Halifax radio, years ago. Rush and Max Webster played the first event in the Metro Centre ’76-’77. The last show on the 2112 tour anyways. My first concert. They’ve been here since and I hope they come back. Thanks for all the great music. cheers, Darren

  • bob

    hi jeff,
    love the interview. was turn on to rush by
    my country cousin when i was 14. been a fan since. have have 20 cds plus 5 dvds and a sig. series geddy lee jazz bass. my 9 year old daughter loves them , expecially neil on the drums. now i cant say mush for their sro managment company. my daughter has a rare fatal dieses called niemann pick c . tried to get sro to have rush meet her at there sept 18 show. i was told to buy a ticket or win a contest. but still love their music.

  • Anonymous
  • John William Hufman Jr

    I live near Orlando, Florida where we have lots of Rush fans, but nobody will give anything newer than Moving Pictures any airplay. I got to see their Snakes and Arrows tour–I had not seen them since Counterparts. Strangely enough, I am aware that the lyrics Neil writes are aged before the two Knuckleheads ever get to work on them, but when a new album of theirs graces my CD player, each song so fits with where I’m at in life it blows me away. I dream of a day that I might meet my music heros, and can hardly wait to see the “Story”….is it possible to wear out the skins on AirDrums? I’ve gone through bunches of sticks! Great job Jeff, and thanks for posting this

  • Robert Owasso, Ok.

    Jeff, Great interview with Geddy and Alex, it sure means alot to all RUSH’s fans across the globe. They’re the best true regular guys by far.
    I’ve been a fan since I received an 2112 album (my 1st album). I became a drummer for a christian rock band back in 1985 by following and inspiring Neil’s drumming.
    I’ll be attending to my 1st RUSH concert this coming Sept. 10th in Tulsa and hope they make my night?
    Once again, great job on the interview. You rock the world.
    Thanks, Robert

  • GerH

    Thanks so much to you and the guys for this Jeff. I’m in Ireland [you have no idea how difficult it is to be a Rush fan in Ireland!! ;-) ]Been a fan since [just after] Permanent Waves and I’m hoping they’ll come over to UK and maybe I can get over and see them – last saw them in 1988 on HYF Tour.
    It’s just great to hear Ged and Alex talk about their art – still influential, still wonderful, still crazy humour – I love it!
    Thanks again for a great interview Jeff!
    Slán!

  • TopekaDon

    Saw the band for the first time in a bar in East Lansing Michigan in 1974, seating capacity 210, and had been listening to them for a couple years at that point. Sat 6 feet from Geddy’s bass tower and 4 feet from Geddy himself and couldn’t hear anything for two days after. Do you think if I held up a sign next year that reads “Forty Year Fan” that Neil would send me out some signed sticks?
    Outstanding interview, best I’ve ever seen.

  • Bob

    Good job Jeff – and you aren’t annoying at all! Well paced interesting questioning that made a very enjoyable listen (and I’ve seen/heard/red a great deal of interviews with Rush over the last 32 years!). What a privilege to sit with Geddy and Alex for an hour.

    In answer to tONY (post on Jul 7 2010 3:34AM) the comment before Jacob’s Ladder on ESL is …Broonsy. A nickname given to Terry Brown – their then long time record producer.

  • Bob

    Good job Jeff – and you aren’t annoying at all! Well paced interesting questioning that made a very enjoyable listen (and I’ve seen/heard/red a great deal of interviews with Rush over the last 32 years!). What a privilege to sit with Geddy and Alex for an hour.

    In answer to tONY (post on Jul 7 2010 3:34AM) the comment before Jacob’s Ladder on ESL is …Broonsy. A nickname given to Terry Brown – their then long time record producer.

  • Patrick Clerens

    Very, very nice interview indeed, thanks a lot Jeff. Been a Rush addict since 1980 and it’s so great to see how these guys stay humble and just ‘normal’ without all the machismo of other self declared ‘rockstars’. That’s why I always had the utter most adoration for them, they stayed true to theirselves. And now preparing myself to fly over to the US of A to see the guys perform in LA, Irvine, San Francisco & Vegas. Would love to see them again in Belgium for once (my first gig was in Brussels in 1983). keep up the good work, you Jeff and you Alex, Geddy & Neil. You really ARE the best group in the galaxy!!

  • ronit

    rush you are my favorite band pleas come play in Israel.

  • ronit

    rush you are my favorite band pleas come play in Israel.

  • ronit

    rush you are my favorite band pleas come play in Israel.

  • ronit

    rush you are my favorite band pleas come play in Israel.

  • Peter Reszytniak

    Good stuff Jeff. Even though they don’t take themselves so seriously and it’s ok to joke, you really showed them the type of respect that they deserve. At times, I think non-fan interviewers ask them such obvious questions, that they think “why doesn’t anybody know who who we are?”. The next “undiscovered country” for Rush to do next is an entire soundtrack for a full length feature film. Did they allude to anything like that?

  • Greg Petrunis

    Just Got to say Rush is by far the best band ever. I been a die hard fan since I was 11 years old, now I am 32 years old and will be a die hard fan until I die. Jeff thank you for that interview with them. I thought your questions to them were great. I’m glad to hear Rush still plans on staying around, that was by far great to hear. Now it gives me more time to hopefully meet them?? LOL That’s all I want is to meet them shake their hands and tell them thank you for all the great music they brought me through my life, and a few autographs and a few pics with them and maybe have them sign my arm so i can get it tatted in that’s all LOL But every Rush show I been too I had no luck meeting them. I’m hoping to win the meet and greet this tour , like I go for every tour LOL. Anybody know how I can get backstage passes?? Jeff can you help me bro??? PLEASE!!!!!

  • Brian

    What can I say Jeff? There is no fitting superlative to describe your awesome interview. You have encapsulated the true essence & the passion that is Rush. Fans across the globe will be awe-struck. I live in the UK & first saw them in 1979 & they have blown me away ever since. I will be heading out to Vegas to see them in August – can’t wait! I love your ink work by the way. Perhaps you should come over to the UK & do a session with Kerrang or Planet Rock?
    Thanks for keepin it real & keep that motor runnin!

  • mark

    Great interview, thanks! I discovered Rush in the tiny rock section of a Woolworths store on the island of St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands based on the appearance of the album alone. I had never heard of them, but the red star with 2112 on it and the look of the three of them on the back cover intrigued me the point of buying the album. It changed my life, that was 34 years ago and I was 13 years old. Thanks guys for the best of runs, the best is yet to come!!!!

  • Torrey Hecht

    Jeff- sensational job on the interview, it was very special to hear how you treated our beloved Geddy and Alex with tremendous respect and courtesy while asking some poignant and insightful questions. Its obvious that they feel the same way about you. All of my best and again, job well done. Torrey Hecht, Long Beach, California- Rush fan since 1982

  • H Watts-Robinson

    Thanks for a brilliant interview Jeff. A fantastic movie for an unparallelled band (and now in my blu-ray collection). Great to see that the band are still enjoying their own music as much as the rest of us enjoy seeing them perform it. I look forward to them visiting England again (hopefully next year)…that would make it an awesome year for gigs with Roger Waters ‘n all….sorry mate went into a daydream for a moment. Cheers.

  • H Watts-Robinson

    Thanks for a brilliant interview Jeff. A fantastic movie for an unparallelled band (and now in my blu-ray collection). Great to see that the band are still enjoying their own music as much as the rest of us enjoy seeing them perform it. I look forward to them visiting England again (hopefully next year)…that would make it an awesome year for gigs with Roger Waters ‘n all….sorry mate went into a daydream for a moment. Cheers.

  • H Watts-Robinson

    Thanks for a brilliant interview Jeff. A fantastic movie for an unparallelled band (and now in my blu-ray collection). Great to see that the band are still enjoying their own music as much as the rest of us enjoy seeing them perform it. I look forward to them visiting England again (hopefully next year)…that would make it an awesome year for gigs with Roger Waters ‘n all….sorry mate went into a daydream for a moment. Cheers.

  • Ric

    Thank you Jeff, Great interview as always. Having moved to VA from Buffalo i miss hearing you on Q107. Miss Q107 in general, what a great station. Like most here, i have been a RUSH fan since my high school days in the early 80′s and can relate to them on a personal level through their music and Neil’s lyrics. I can easily define my life by the music and each song takes me back. It is one of the great aspects of the band that now they are still reflecting my life with their music. Excellent interview. Will be watching them again soon. Havent missed a show since moving pictures and dont plan on stopping until they or me check out of this place.
    Thanks for asking the types of questions i would.

  • Colin

    Good morning Jeff how are you today? Jeff I just wanted to comment on the fantastic job you did with this interview. This was the first opportunity I have had to watch you “work” and I am certainly impressed with your ability to ask all the right questions. I have been a Rush fan since an early age and have had the pleasure of seeing Rush well over 20 times. I am a fellow Canadian and still impressed with the “boys” ability to stay humble after all the success. As someone had wrote in previous email, todays bands could certainly learn the art of humility and how to act and treat their fans from these gentlemen. An incredible band, amazing musicians and even more importantly truly great people. I am off to Vegas in August to see the boys at the MGM Grande and cannot wait. Great job on the interview Jeff keep up the great work and I will certainly make an attempt to see or listen to more of your interviews. Bravo.

  • Henk

    Hay I’m from the Netherlands you konw the orange-country that’s gonna win the Worldcup coming Sunday.

    I’ve just seen the Beyond the lighted stage BD and i think it is fantastic especially the pre-Hemisphere bits when they were not jet so global.

    I’m gonna see you’re int. in a moment.

    But it surprises me that you overthere are using another new disc format than overhere in EU.

    What’s wrong with the BLU-RAY format???
    You’re using blue ray!!!
    What’s that for bull??

    I hope there’s not gonna be a new format war now between BLU-RAY and BLUE RAY.

    Well maybe “you” lose,again. ;)

    “I was only joking my dear.” (R.S.)
    Gonne see the int. now

    C U

  • Bruce Sands

    Like so many of the people who have posted comments, RUSH is and always has been the “soundtrack of my life” (borrowed from another post). I could literally spend weeks describing how each and every song they have written has impacted my life, the way I live it, and the way I ponder it. I proudly display my RUSH paraphernalia at home, in my office, and everywhere I go. It evokes a response from people of all ages; and, has led to a great many friendships. RUSH fans are a different breed; we enjoy a more sophisticated musical palate and appreciate not only the complexity of the musicial arrangements, but the lyrical compositions as well. In the book “Contents Under Pressure”, Neil was quoted as saying that as a writer, he was able to “discard” his first few works before being published; and that he would like to discard the RUSH albums that preceded Moving Pictures. I don’t disagree with Neil often, but protest mightily here. Hemispheres is my all-time favorite album; and though it was the most difficult album for RUSH to write and produce (due to several obstacles they had to overcome), the hardship inspired a brilliant album. Don’t get me wrong, I love all RUSH albums (as my wife and kids can attest to, since I listen to RUSH 50% or more of the time); but on that note, I believe you gain a greater respect for them when you listen to the entire catalog. Caress of Steel is another oft-forgotten album that I enjoy while working on house projects or mowing the lawn (credit must be given to Apple and their Ipods, which allow me to enjoy RUSH almost 24/7). It’s amazing to me to hear the different types of music that have influenced the members of RUSH through the years as evidenced by their progression in arrangements and sound. The depth of their music (which has increased exponentially the last 10 years) is mind boggling as I can listen to an album hundreds of times and pick up little “hidden” pieces that I had not noticed before. I have only two comments that I would love to pass on to Alex, Geddy and Neil. First, continue playing, recording and performing until you no longer feel “it”. Please don’t ever become a caricature like so many “classic” bands who “re-unite” in order to make money, but have lost their edge and sound simply awful. I doubt that the 3 of them would do so anyway, but having seen them 28 times in concert (and attending hundreds of concerts in total), I can honestly say they are the best live performers, period. (And I’ve seen almost everybody). Alex is the best guitarist ever…..that includes Clapton, Van Halen, whoever else you can name…….and he earns that honor from not only his ability, and his ability to play live, but his incredible body of work; a body of work which showcases his ability to play different string instruments with different styles. The only guitarist in his league is Satriani, but Joe’s body of work is tiny compared to Alex’s with RUSH and his solo project, “Victor”. (Strip and Go Naked is just a great “Road Rage” tune). I don’t mean to dis’ Geddy or Neil, but they are already heralded as “best-ever” for their instruments (an opinion that I share); but I don’t think Alex gets his due. Just keep it fun and fresh and keep rockin’ til you can’t. My second comment is a little awkward, but when I think of RUSH, I think of top-rate, high-quality, and high-class. My only criticism has to do with the video shorts used in their concerts. Please, please, please, as a father who has taken his girls (when they were 7 and 11) to a RUSH concert (show #27 for me), and will be taking them to show #29 in Tampa this October…..please remove the “R-rated” material. Scenes from the skit with Geddy as the pissed-off Scotsman and the shot of the monkeys “humping” during “The Main Monkey Business” come to mind. In fact, the Snakes & Arrows tour was the first time I can recall anything untowards being in the show. Otherwise, I can’t wait to see them in both Tampa and West Palm in October. Rock On!

  • Dale

    No Detroit dates this year. We have enough problems,and not having Rush just makes it worse. My son is 31, his first concert ever was RUSH. He grew up to be a fine gentleman and a positive citizen. Maybe other familys should take their kids to see Rush early, and the world would be a better place. The phrase on All the Worlds a Stage is won’t you please welcome HOME Rush.Rush forever!!!

  • Dale

    No Detroit dates this year. We have enough problems,and not having Rush just makes it worse. My son is 31, his first concert ever was RUSH. He grew up to be a fine gentleman and a positive citizen. Maybe other familys should take their kids to see Rush early, and the world would be a better place. The phrase on All the Worlds a Stage is won’t you please welcome HOME Rush.Rush forever!!!

  • Warren Garcia

    Wow. I am not a ‘follow bands’ kind of fan. I just listen to music and if I like it I buy it or listen to songs whenever. But Rush is different. You never get tired of listening to their music. I am 45 years old and have listen to them since I have 15 when I just happen to stumble on their Permanent Waves album which my older brother purchased and without know who they were I listen to it just to see what was in it. Wow again. I would say “Freewill” is the best song ever. What they are as musicians is miracle. The best drummer, the best guitarist, the best basist guitarist, writers, singer etc. And they get along with each other to boot. How rare is that. Not even the Beatles could claim that, actually no one can claim that in my opinion. And they say they feel they have not done their best material yet. Wow again. We should all be so lucky and fortunate to know there is more material on the way. Cant wait. Right now at 45 I am more of a Smooth Jazz kind of guy. But Rush is still on my list. May God continue to bless them and keep them safe during their future tours. Good job Jeff!

  • Keith

    Thnks for the great interview, Jeff. I really enjoyed it. Your interviews are a cut above the rest. Thanks for taking the time to prepare quality questions.

    As a fan for many decades, I always look forward to seeing them out on the road and it was great to hear that they still have a genuine fire for performing and recording. It certainly shows in their performances but it was great to hear Geddy talk about writing the perfect song. I think I remember him saying that back in the 80s. I hope that the performances with the orchestra become a reality and that they are able to do a significant tour with that configuration.

    Thanks again!

    Keith

  • kohnhead from tulsa

    AWESOME! what more can i say! i noticed two people from tulsa said they’re seeing the boys on september 10th. i thought it was september 21st.

  • Rob

    Hello,
    Rockfeild is a beautifull place know wonder it gave the guys such insperation to write (by the way i come from Wales)it was Moving Pictures that first got me into Rush bought by my older brother, the mystery of the cover art which seem to tie in well with the songs managed while in Toronto on holdiay to go inside the building used for the cover art a must for a Rush fan,
    thanks Jeff great interview and thanks to the guys in Rush {ps} come back to the UK with this present Tour and play Moving Pitures in its entirety or at least The Camera Eye.
    Thanks,
    Rob (the proud to be Welsh fan.)

  • Mark Z Hayward, CA

    Hi Jeff,

    Loved your interview with Geddy & Alex. Been a fan since the first time I heard the band on 8-track, in 1974, then went to see them back up Rory Gallagher in Chicago.

  • Jake

    Thanks for an excellent interview, Jeff. Its great to see these guys having so much fun with an interview!

    Thanks again,

    Jake
    Orlando, FL

  • Modesto Santiago

    Fantastic interview, left me with such an inspirational feeling. Rush is a great band, I can’t wait to see them on September 18th, and yes this is the one day that my son Joseph and I will be together, we wouldn’t miss this for anything in the world!!! Its our night!!!

  • Jeff

    Jeff…great Interview. Its amazing after all these years, so much success, they are still so relaxed and humble. Their sense of humor, not taking themselves too seriously has been their secret to success.
    I am going to see them for the 1st time on August 20 in Wichita!!!!
    I have fallen prey to Rushisaband.com and to Youtube (I know the Setlist for the Time machine tour).

    Im hoping there is some way you could get in touch with them before August 20th…request that they throw two more songs into the set. The setlist is awesome of course…but I would so love to hear Xanadu and Jacob’s ladder live!!!!

    Rock on forever RUSH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Jeff

  • John Finnegan

    Great interview Jeff. One question I don’t hear get asked is how the band came up with the name Rush. It was not even brought up in the movie BTLS. How ever who cares how just as long as they keep staying RUSH!!!All I can say is that I love this band.

  • Antony

    Fantastic interview. The continuing admiration for the professionalism and the sense of fine musicianship in the truest sense of the word. Thanx….

  • Jamie

    A lovely interview fella – nice one. I really admire the way somebody can interview their idols – I can only think I would freeze, but it was conducted in a very charming and informal way, it really got some warm and genuine answers from them. Thanks for asking the question about coming to Europe – I haven’t seen them for 20 years, but hopefully that will end!

    Well done, and thanks…

  • David Zajdel

    I though that the movie was the greatest thing a Rush fan could ever get, but this interview was as good as the movie. Those guys (Ged & Alex) are just great human beings. Jeff you really brought that out during conversation. Hats off to you!

  • Steve Elmore

    Wow! Superb interview, Jeff. That was completely entertaining and provided such great insight. Those guys are a class act and certainly live up to their reputation as musicians’ musicians both on and off the stage. Bravo! Very nice that this was linked from Rush’s FB page.

  • Steve Elmore

    Wow! Superb interview, Jeff. That was completely entertaining and provided such great insight. Those guys are a class act and certainly live up to their reputation as musicians’ musicians both on and off the stage. Bravo! Very nice that this was linked from Rush’s FB page.

  • Steve Elmore

    Wow! Superb interview, Jeff. That was completely entertaining and provided such great insight. Those guys are a class act and certainly live up to their reputation as musicians’ musicians both on and off the stage. Bravo! Very nice that this was linked from Rush’s FB page.

  • Tom

    Great Interview with RUSH. They are and will always be in my list of TOP 5 Legendary Classic Rock Bands of ALL TIME, that Includes: Led Zeppellin, Van Halen, Pink Floyd, Rush, and AC/DC. Neil Peart is arguably the The Best Drummer in Rock History. Can’t wait to see RUSH in Concert in Las Vegas on Saturday August the 14th! I am counting down the days,…ROCK ON RUSH!!!!

  • Luiz Ferracini

    A MAIOR BANDA DE TODOS OS TEMPOS.

    RUSH 08/10 – MORUMBI – SAO PAULO – BRASIL !!!!!!!!!!!

    LUIZ FERRACINI

  • JR

    In regards to Tony’s question regarding the intro to Jacob’s Ladder (ESL Version). Geddy is (jokingly) referring to their then producer, Terry Brown. Highly unlikely Terry had anything to do with writing the song. Geddy says “From a long time ago….” At that point the song was really only 2 years old.
    Rush like to make up nicknames for the people who are close to them. They used to call Terry Brown, Broonsie. Terry Brown and Rush parted ways after the Signals album. Their next album, Grace Under Pressure summed up their feelings at that point.

  • R.Brett "Obiwan" Mountjoy

    I saw RUSH for the first time in 1979 on the “Hemispheres” tour I was 15. Discovering that Album was a similar emotional experience to discovering J.R.R. Tolkien’s Trilogy. The early albums were like books that shaped and changed my life; completely and forever. It bordered on a religious experience for me. My second favorite album is “Caress of Steel” I had that 8-track playing in my parents LTD when I; found my special purpose with a beautiful blue jeaned brunette. How I would love to hear “Fountain of Lamneth” or “Necromancer” live in concert. But my least favorite RUSH album is far better than 99% of any other bands best album. I saw them on the second show of this current “Time Machine” tour at the legendary Starlight theatre in Kansas City Mo. I am even more psyched to see that show a second time in St. Louis Mo. on the 22nd of August. I saw the original “‘Moving Pictures” tour three times and I can honestly say they are tighter and play better than ever. I think we will someday find out that they are not normal humans but some highly advanced race from another place or time. Like wine they get better with age, it is not normal! This will make my 20th show I was so excited before last months show I hardly slept for two nights before. After watching your interview I might not sleep until the 22nd arrives and I make it an even 20. Thanks from my Heart for this interview, seeing RUSH is like Christmas morning when you are six years old. May the force be with you and the band always. LONG LIVE RUSH!!! The holy trinity Brett “Obiwan” Mountjoy

  • R.Brett "Obiwan" Mountjoy

    I saw RUSH for the first time in 1979 on the “Hemispheres” tour I was 15. Discovering that Album was a similar emotional experience to discovering J.R.R. Tolkien’s Trilogy. The early albums were like books that shaped and changed my life; completely and forever. It bordered on a religious experience for me. My second favorite album is “Caress of Steel” I had that 8-track playing in my parents LTD when I; found my special purpose with a beautiful blue jeaned brunette. How I would love to hear “Fountain of Lamneth” or “Necromancer” live in concert. But my least favorite RUSH album is far better than 99% of any other bands best album. I saw them on the second show of this current “Time Machine” tour at the legendary Starlight theatre in Kansas City Mo. I am even more psyched to see that show a second time in St. Louis Mo. on the 22nd of August. I saw the original “‘Moving Pictures” tour three times and I can honestly say they are tighter and play better than ever. I think we will someday find out that they are not normal humans but some highly advanced race from another place or time. Like wine they get better with age, it is not normal! This will make my 20th show I was so excited before last months show I hardly slept for two nights before. After watching your interview I might not sleep until the 22nd arrives and I make it an even 20. Thanks from my Heart for this interview, seeing RUSH is like Christmas morning when you are six years old. May the force be with you and the band always. LONG LIVE RUSH!!! The holy trinity Brett “Obiwan” Mountjoy

  • You precisely saved me atleast 1 hour of time. I am making a project in this particular topic and your contribute has helped me through one of the topics of my project. I will browse to the other pages now.

    • Jeff Woods

      happy to help.

  • I will die a happy man.This band whom I’ve never met has bought such beautiful music to my ears in this crazy world.Nothing racial,but,no other black man knows as much about this band as I do.Have the entire collection,seen them 14 times,listen to them darn near everyday of my life.Don’t ever stop making music guys.Onward & upward.

    • Jeff Woods

      well, that’s at least something racial, but how can I fault a guy who is proud of his unique love of a band? good on ya’, TLR!

  • HB

    Awesome..
    All the questions we perfect. Great Interview

    • Jeff Woods

      :)

  • Lj Forbes

    I do not know THE WHY…. I just don’t like RUSH…. I have wanted to like them but I cannot. … I guess I am just being ME —–>>> OH YA!!!!

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