Neil Peart, the drummer, wrote the lyrics to this song. He was uniquely talented and thoughtful. He also was introverted and struggled with the trappings of fame. Rest easy Neil…

@rubeshed4360

2 жыл бұрын

Yes. He was gift.

@K31011

2 жыл бұрын

Equally gifted author and most of his books about his motorcycle travels between shows explains how he came up with the lyrics to all of Rush's songs. He always felt out of place being famous , just wanted to be a regular guy. He said his favorite interactions were when he stopped on his motorcycle and would have conversations with other bikers or share a drink at the bar without everyone realizing who he was. I think he must have written 7-8 books about his riding and touring don't know what I will miss more the drumming or the writing. RIP Neal my first album was Rush in 1979, better days.

@mattjohn4731

2 жыл бұрын

Fame is absurd to me. I would not tolerate it well

@frankaq3951

2 жыл бұрын

Check out Neil Peart's "Frankfurt drum solo" You will be blown away!

@devonbell6795

2 жыл бұрын

@@frankaq3951 yep. I’ve seen RUSH live 4 times. They were amazing and Peart always did an amazing solo!

Neil not only killed it on the drums, he also wrote the lyrics. RIP

@odochartaighofodonegal9815

2 жыл бұрын

Who lets the drummer write the F-ing lyrics ? RUSH baby ! (Taylor Hawkins RRHOF Rush Induction)

You hit the nail on the head. This is the drummer's (Neil Peart) own experience of being a superstar. He was a person of substance and didn't like to put on airs. He was also not someone that particularly enjoyed being worshipped. A quiet man. It is his own cautionary tale to others of his real-life experience. "I can't pretend a stranger is a long-awaited friend." We know him, but no matter how much he wants to he doesn't know us. A fan walking up to him and fawning all over him "Neil, Neil, I love you so much Neil!" is lost on him because he can't pretend that you are his friend. As you mentioned, there are also words in there warning people what being famous is really like. "Those who wish to be, must put aside the alienation" (when you are a star, you are alienated from everyone else because you can't go out), "Get on with the fascination" (Understand that people are fascinated by you, or even continue to be fascinated by the music and performing), "the real relation, the underlying theme." (get to work and enjoy what you do.)

@JasonSmith-jr7jh

2 жыл бұрын

Well put.

@jasonmichaels5796

2 жыл бұрын

@@JasonSmith-jr7jh I agree 💯, well said

"I can't pretend a stranger is a long awaited friend" is probably the lyric that hits me hardest. A beautiful way to describe shyness and introversion.

@willasacco9898

2 жыл бұрын

Same here -This phrase succinctly summarizes reality versus phony fame.

Rush is one of the most cerebral bands. The lyrics are always so meaningful. I love this band. I believe y'all have listened to a few Rush songs now ... and all the lyrics are pretty deep right? Next up - Free Will

Probably my favorite by Rush. If not, certainly Top 3. The whole album, Moving Pictures, is fantastic, and takes me back to my high school days.

@bigblk45

2 жыл бұрын

Same here. A classic album.

@drew65sep

2 жыл бұрын

Making yourself a "top #" list will only cause you a bunch of sleepless nights, and a lot of second guessing yourself...the sht ain't healthy...at all. Stay the hell away from such things. I know because I've done it more than I'd like to admit lol.

Neal Peart, perhaps the best drummer of all time. Also a fantastic lyricist and fantastic human. Welcome to the Rush army. 40+ year career, 17 studio albums and over 160 songs. Enjoy the ride!!!

@Swollen_Goat

2 жыл бұрын

I definitely say one of the top. There are some reaaaallly good drummers nowadays that already rival the skill and creativity, but they only got there because of Neil's influence so there's always that. R.I.P NP.

@Fred-vy1hm

Ай бұрын

19 studio albums.

A hidden gem by Rush is "Entre Nous" (Between us), not so hidden is "Closer To The Heart", other than many other great songs. One song with a lot of meaning for Geddy is "Red Sector A". Rush is one of those groups you listen to the music at first, then pay attention to the lyrics, which blow you away. You have heard "Eruption" by Eddie Van Halen, now watch "the greatest drum solo", one of the videos of Neil's drum solo. Again played by 3 people.

"Whoever the drummer is for Rush... he be killin' it!" No truer words have ever been spoken!

@haroldgonzales8261

Жыл бұрын

That would be Neil peart!! Oh yes he was one of the best of all time thanks for appreciating

As was mentioned Neil Peart who is the drummer struggled with being in the Limelight. In an interview, Geddy Lee, the lead singer and keyboardist spoke about this issue of being in the Limelight. He told the story about the night he decided that He was going to embrace the Limelight. One night as he was leaving the concert, therapy, there were a whole bunch of fans with big banners screaming and yelling and hoping to meet some of the man. He didn't want to deal with them so he turned around and sped off the opposite direction.. As he was leaving he had an Epiphany. These people probably drove for more than an hour to come and see him play. They had spent money on tickets and concert T shirts and took the time to make these huve banners to thank me for my music and in hopes of me simply recognizing their gratitude. It was in that moment he decided to turn around and embrace their gratitude. He said something to the effect of, From that moment on, I would stop to thank the fans and give them a moment of my time, give an autograph, let them express their gratitude, let them briefly share how a song had touched them etc... Both he and Alex Lifeson, the guitarist, would be the front for the band and allow Neil to escape due to his shyness.

@STILL-KICKIN

2 жыл бұрын

Geddy…

@revdmcspumcsb

2 жыл бұрын

@@STILL-KICKIN Thanks. I was posting using voice translate while I was driving.

Asia, this IS about living in the limelight and being able to handle the fame - Peart wrote this about himself (as I understand it). Be careful when you get famous. 🤘🏼🤘🏼

Welcome to the magic of RUSH.

This song is strictly about drummer Neil Peart's inability to deal with fame and the adulation of his fans. Rest in Peace Neil Peart.

I saw Rush several times (LOVE RUSH) & if you close your eyes you would swear there is about 6 musicians on stage….that’s the power these 3 amazing musical masterminds put out for their fans. The Professor….genius sheer genius with his lyrics…..Rest Easy Prof!! I always like to watch Geddy for 1 reason….how many instruments 🎹🎸will he be playing while 🎤singing??

Way to go Asia. Those who wish to SEEM verses those who wish to BE. One of the great songs. A great melody put to progressive rhythm with meaningful lyrics.

The drummer is one of the best their ever was.I saw him in concert many times.His hands were so fast you had to see them coming back from his last drum strike.Rush has many hits ,Tom Sawyer, Subdivision,and working man.

Neil Peart was a well read interesting individual. A Renaissance man if there ever was one. He wrote almost all of Rush's lyrics, and gave thoughtful, articulate interviews. He studied percussion passionately, including afro-cuban and jazz/swing styles. His life was filled with tragedy, losing his daughter, and then his wife shortly after, but he was able to grieve, and cope admirably. Admired for his talent, respected for his intellect, loved for his humanity. RIP PROFESSOR.

When you listen to Rush you hear new perspectives. This is a deeply satisfying rabbit hole.

Neil Peart who was the drummer was also the main lyrist wrote this song about the uncomfortably of being famous. He was one of the best drummers in rock but he also was very shy and private person who wanted to be seen as just a normal person. The Fandom embarrassed him. Unfortunately Neil Peart passed away from brain cancer in January of 2020. I would suggest Natural Science lyric video and Red Barchetta. Love your reactions. Cheers

I personally love Getty Lee's bass playing on this song, especially when he plays around the guitar solo.

"For those who wish to seem" are the pretenders. Those who use their art simply as a vehicle to stardom. "Those who wish to be" are the artists who perform from the heart.

@Azabaxe80

2 жыл бұрын

I'm amazed at how many people miss that dichotomy. It's in the chorus, so it's not like Peart was being subtle about it. I've come to see this song as an answer to Roger Waters' preoccupations in The Wall. Waters came to see making music, like the fame that came with it, as a barrier between himself and the audience/world. A type of alienation if you will. I think Peart is saying that if you're a genuine person, then put aside that alienation. Otherwise, you're just a pretender who just lives for the fame.

Great song! I'm a total RUSH head, and this song is in my top 5 by them. Alex shows out in his solo, backed up by some incredible Geddy bass licks, and Mr. Peart keeping it all tight with his phenomenal percussion. Great reaction Asia and BJ. Try out The Red Barchetta next...tells a fun story.

You need to see Rush perform "Working Man" live in Cleveland. These Kats are unreal, seeing them live is a must.

Like i said in a previous video… Now that you’ve reacted to Eddie Van Halen’s solo, you now NEED to react to Rush’s drummer Neil Peart Drum Solo!! You’ll be just as amazed and entertained. He was known as “The Professor” and widely thought the best Rock Drummer who ever lived. He sadly died January 7 2020 from a brain tumor. Please react to his drium solo live from Frankfurt!

It always brings me joy to see people experience a Rush song. There's allot going on between the amazing lyrics and uncompromising musical talent. There's allot more to explore. Rush on..

This song summed up Neil’s experience when it came to fame. Many have said that if you seemed to act like an obsessive fan, security would escort you away from him in a heartbeat. All of Rush wasn’t into the whole partying, being wild, jumping in front of pictures kind of splash of Hollywood. They would rather sit in a hotel room, read a book, and be themselves. RIP Neil, gone too soon.

You should react to Neil Peart’s drum solo live in Frankfurt…you will be amazed!

Rush , what a Powerful Trio.(understatement)

I was lucky enough to see Rush in Glasgow for their 30th anniversary tour. I would recommend that you watch them live. My favourite Canadian band, it is a real shame about Neil bringing an end to a band that was intelligent, that gave back to their fans. RIP Neil you are missed. 🤘🎸🎸

Rip to Neil pert, Geddy Lee's voice is like no other. I know a guy from Albany Georgia that kinda sounds like him, Days to come is the band they kinda have a adveneged sevenfold soun with rush vocals. They are a small band but could be huge

@goldenretrieverdad

2 жыл бұрын

Neil Peart!!

Just 3 guys from Canada. Such great music!!!

RIP Mr. Peart, not only the greatest drummer - Perc in history, possibly one of the greatest poets and deep writers, this songs simply about their success, it's almost like a small message to other bands, entertainers, anyone who thinks they want to be famous.

Witch Hunt off that album is epic!

Rush has to be the best 3 member band in rock. R.I.P. Neil Peart

@2869may

2 жыл бұрын

RusH is composed of 3 compulsive perfectionist, and genuine good people that do not have any the ego trips that have lead to the demise of many successful bands. Truly GREAT musicians that are also truly great friends.... Resulting in some of the cleanest, tightest most amazing music ever made.

@dickcnormis1444

2 жыл бұрын

Either them or Cream . Rush of course lasted for way longer than Cream, but both bands have top musicians.

@2869may

2 жыл бұрын

@@dickcnormis1444 Triumph was pretty good for a minute...

Brilliant lyrics. Neil Peart ladies and gentleman. The drummer and lyricist for most Rush songs. The Professor. RIP.

3 HUMANS MADE ALL THAT GLORIOUS SOUND. 3 THREE YOU HAVE TO LERN FAST- THAT IS THE GOAT. NEIL PEART rip - will never be duplicated HOPE YOU DO THE TREES IF NOT YET

Probably my fav Rush song. It takes me on a journey every single time. Neil penned this and it's masterful. Being an introvert and dealing with fame and all you want to do is play and he was so effing great at it. Rest peacefully Neil, still banging to ya!! ❤🥺

Neil was a genius. One of the best drummers to live. I have a great book he wrote called “ghost writer: travels on the healing road.” Talks about his daughter dying in a car accident and then wife dying within a year after of cancer. He takes his motorcycle and drives around the world, and journals. “I can’t pretend a stranger is a long awaited friend.” He wasn’t a mean guy. He was shy. He struggled with the fame. He didn’t think he was worthy of it. He wouldn’t do fan meet and greets. Not as a jerk. It was because it embarrassed him. When he died we lost a beautiful person. But he had suffered enough, carrying such grief and pain for so long, and he lived an epic life. He’s called “The professor.”

Neil Peart was the drummer and main lyricist for the band, a true, honest to god genius. He was also an introvert and wrote this song as a lament to his fame. It's been said that if Neil isn't your favorite drummer, he's your favorite drummers favorite drummer

So Rush- here’s the thing: one - if not all 3 of them - will take you somewhere,doesn’t matter what album,which track- let them do it. It’s wonderful for me watching you- I saw these guys in 78’ and by R40, their last tour,my sons went with me,adults. When my sons heard the first intro- their faces were like- oh my goodness these are some real ones out here doing this- I’m watching them do it - all of it,keyboard,foot pedals Neil and his whole kit- they were so happy,so was I believe me. We did not sit down much, by the time they got to YYZ…..🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🤘🤘🤘 2112 was the encore. I straight lost my mind,forgot where I was- crazy as a fool screaming my face off. You saw YYZ from Rio right? It was like that….yeah.🔥✅ Music is our universal language. I’m so glad we are sharing it.❤️

The professor Neil Peart RIP the goat Check out his solo Frankfurt Germany BJ

I really enjoyed this reaction. Love how Asia was drawn to the awesome lyrics. RUSH obviously wanted to voice their point of view of the somewhat cons of stardom. And BJ fell under the spell of the GOAT that is Neil Peart. Although he has since passed, his impact is not lost on you two. Insane that he is the driving force of this 3 piece band with his epic drumming skills and the writer of the lyrics as well. Glad that you guys enjoyed it. Take care.

Have to check out Neal Peart solo in Frankfurt Germany. RIP Professor🙏

Hearing this as a teenager in the early 80s is what ignited my lifelong love of the band

Rush is my 3rd Fav band of all time Behind the might Zepp and Floyd oh man back in the day!!!!!!! Peace and Love everyone, Rock On!

Glad to see you discovering one of my favorites BUT....... Please do the live version ! Rush is best live. Here's one for you. It's from the Exit Stage Left concert and it's titled Medley:ByTor and the Snow Dog ,, In the End, In the Mood, Grand Finale.

Y'all got the vibe of this song pretty quick. The Shakespeare references and "gilded cage" fit with it as well. Such a great song, and I loved seeing your realizations.

Neil Peart (R.I.P.) who was Rush's drummer wrote the lyrics back in 1981... He was always a shy kid growing up who loved to read books... He grew up tall, awkward and not athletic as a teen in school in Canada. He got into rock bands and grew his hair out in high school and was really not popular... He got into playing drums, inspired by The Who drummer Keith Moon, Cream drummer Ginger Baker, and Led Zeppelin's John Bonham... and it became a passion cos he was admired for the first time in his life. He played drums for local bands in his area. Then, he was offered an audition for Rush in 1974, who needed to replace their drummer John Rutsey... Peart had never heard of Rush, but he was encouraged by his parents to audition... Geddy Lee & Alex Lifeson of Rush thought he was a goofy-looking fellow... very tall and somewhat introverted, but he could really play drums. So he was hired in '74 and was put on tour w/ the band for months, and began writing lyrics and recording w/ the band. However, Rush was fairly unknown... it took a few years until 1976/ '77 to have commercial success after 4 records. Once the band was famous, Neil Peart was not accustomed to fans praising him in public or showing up at his hotel room... Whenever someone approached him and seemed starstruck, he would feel embarrassed and shut down... he couldn't converse. Geddy and Alex also struggled initially w/ fame and had to come to terms w/ talking to fans. Peart was never comfortable w/ that level of adulation, and people assumed that he was either stuck up or bitter about fame... and that was not the case. He just didn't have the capability of being 'fan-friendly'... So, 'Limelight' was his way of explaining his point of view about why he couldn't embrace the trappings of fame.

You guys picked a good one...RUSH is one of the best Rock bands of all time and they have such an unique sound like no one else has. A lot going on with just a 3 piece band!!!

Great reaction!! RUSH is the best!!! Looking forward to more!! Be well and God Bless… from Texas!!

You need to listen to RUSH 2112 all the way through in one sitting. I think it is one of the best albums ever made in the history of albums.

When you’re both super talented and super shy, how do you balance people that know so much about you that THEY feel like they know you with your feelings of introversion and humility. They listen to you every day, sleep with you every night, begin the day with your magic music if you will. But to you, they’re a perfect stranger. That’s why Ged and Alex did the fan stuff and NP the GOAT read a book in the next room alone.

Watch a Neil Peart drum solo. You do not expect what it is... but it will make you never look at a percussionist the same.

He writes so many songs that are reflective in nature. Truly a great writer and a drumming GOD! I can't wait until you guys go deeper into RUSH and hear 2112 or Xanadu....

Greatest drummer to ever walk the face of the earth

Neil Peart was very frugal with his words… And every word meant everything… Even the term "gilded cage" means that you’re in a cage… But it’s golden…. Neil did not waste words. 👍❤️

The line that says it all for me is "I can't pretend a stranger is a long awaited friend" Neil explained once not because he thought he was better than but because it embarrassed him RIP Neil

The drummer writes all the lyrics. He tended to be an introvert until he got behind the drums. All 3 were friends since childhood. When Neil passed the band retired stating they didn't want to continue as Rush with anyone else.

Listened to this song for years. Thanks to you guys I know more about it's meaning. Thanks.

Drummer is Neil Peart, and wrote the lyrics. Check out Neil Peart live in Frankfurt !!!!!!! Amazing!!!!!!

You want to get to know the drummer and lyricist, Neil Peart, check out his drum solo from Frankfurt. He will take you around the world in 10 minutes with all the different styles. Definitely one of the best and one of the most influential rock drummers ever. Cheers!

Neil Peart, the drummer, wrote the lyrics to this song. He was also the principal lyricist for the band. He was a fantastic drummer but he was ectremely shy. You would very seldom see him with Geddy Lee and Alex lifeson during interviews. He loved their fans and playing the drums but he would do his part to support the band. He was great on the gilded cage, the stage, but had a difficult time mingling with the fans. But he loved them aa the same.

Neil Peart "The Professor" on the drums was incredible.... one of the best trio's to ever be! Good job understanding the meaning behind the lyrics guys, you were awesome thanks!

Glad I saw Rush 5/16/1981 at the Largo Capital Center in DC during their Moving Pictures tour. Man they were intense!!!

Neil Peart was the drummer for RUSH. RIP Check out Neil Peart Drum solo Live in Frankfurt

top three drummer in rock history...just hard to beat.

Neil was as poet and a legendary drummer. They are all musical geniuses.

You got it Asia. It's about Neal Peart the drummer. He is an introvert. He does not like crowds or attention. This is about his struggle being in the Limelight

Just seen this. You should check out his live solos. Takes you to another planet. One man band basically and my idol as a drummer and Canadian RIP

Seeing you Asia, feeling the same way as the song, beautiful

Asia, you are actually correct about both perspectives: "Those who wish to seem" are the ones who are wishing they were famous. "Those who wish to BE" are the people (like Neil the lyricist/drummer was) who ARE famous, but desire to BE a part of the real world, not the fantasy one. He borrows a little bit from Shakespeare, too when he says "We are merely players, performers and portrayers. Each another's audience outside the gilded cage." If you are unfamiliar, the "Gilded Cage" means a cage made of gold. It symbolizes the familiar trap of being famous: you're not really free to do what you want once people want access to you and your time, but you live in a mansion full of nice things. Living in the limelight is being trapped in cage. And even if that cage is "gilded" (golden), it's STILL A CAGE. Hope that helps! Great song, great lyrics.

Neil Peart, arguably one of the Greatest drummers of all time. A legend.

This is making you think. Love Ya'll

This song was all neil and how he saw being famous just a great lyricist he wrote probably 90 percent of rush,s songs when the gig was done he would run out hop on his motorcycle and ride to the next gig he was one of a kind RIP neil surely missed.

Greatest band of all time and probably the most thought provoking and insightful band that you could connect with and the music is off the charts the lyrics are the best try half the world try driven,try big money mission marathon, 2112 A Farwell to kings hemispheres, far cry list goes on and on,,,,,,,

Neil Peart, The Professor wrote all of Rush's most meaningful songs. The world lost an exceptional person and musician when Neil died. You HAVE to react to a Neil Peart drum solo, about 15 minutes of amazement. Check out Neil Peart drum solo Live in Frankfurt. He did his solo at all of their concerts, you will see The Professor teaching the world his craft.

Geddy Lee, the bassist, told a story in an interview that probably explains some of this song. Rush had just finished a tour in Europe somewhere and he was in a hurry to get away from the arena and blew by some fans that were waiting for him in the parking lot who had come all the way from Italy to see them. Geddy was eager to see his wife and kids, apparently, so he just drove right past them. Later he got some pretty serious guilt pangs for not taking the time to stop and talk to them, since they had come a considerable distance to see them. This song, which was written by Neil Peart the drummer, no doubt describes some of Geddy's emotions as he could see that the life of a rock star was making him insular, and not the man he wanted to be. I don't know how he deals with this today. What can any human being do? You can only take so much of being in the public eye, and being friendly to perfect strangers before you wonder if this is what life is _really_ supposed to be like? It must become artificial after a while ... 😥🙃🎸😎

Neil wrote this and most of the RUSH LYRICS. I do believe this song represents exactly who Neil is. AMAZING

Neil was the greatest drummer there ever was or ever will be...genius doesn't begin to describe him. He was on a whole 'nother level!

This is an excellent band! All three are super talented musicians, all the song lyrics are very deep and cause you to think. For me Rush is one of the best rock bands there ever was. I’ve seen them live a few years before the drummer died and I’m so thankful I had the opportunity! They are great!

Asia. for you, it means don't let anyone distract you from your focus on your music. The real relation, and thankyou guys for being so great.

Need to do live versions of songs like this !

There's a great video "drum cam" of Neil Peart playing this song. It's amazing! 👍👍👍

Asia you’re brilliant; they wrote the song as their response to record company trying to tell Rush to be someone they’re not. Netflix has a great rockumentary it gives great insight to the band.

The drummer Neil Peart wrote the lyrics to Rush songs. He was also the one person who did not indulge in the fame of meeting and greeting of the fans before and after concerts. That just wasn’t his thing because he did like being put upon a pedestal. RIP Neil.

You said suggest. So here is mine. Off their first album. Here Again. I hope you react to it. Thank you Asia and B.J. for the reactions and memories. God Bless.

You guy's should watch their videos with them performing. Their drummer known as the professor was an incredible musician and the bassist does the keyboards and their guitarist incredible as well. You should watch them in performing video's.

You guys do such wonderful and insightful videos..thanks for the reactions Asia & BJ! 💙

My drummer’s favorite drummer he wold by Neil’s drumming lessons on dvd that dude is great

Great song from an amazing album, Moving Pictures. They have so many incredible songs but if you have not done it before, try Rush's concept of 2112. That entire side of that 2112 album needs to be listened to all at once to get the incredible story, sang from multiple perspectives by Geddy Lee. It is a musical trip you will not soon forget and one of the best prog/hard rock suites you will ever hear. Rush is one of the best bands in any genre. Enjoy! 🎵

I sent the lyrics of this song to a theater stage director....and he was floored!! Impressive inspiring and deep.......

Neil Peart is the greatest rock drummer of all time. And wrote some of the most thought provoking lyrics as well.

I am in tears watching y'all groove to this iconic tune. The best bars, ever!!! We're 'Each anothers audience'. TRUTH!!

Awesome! Bout to watch Your Reaction to the Spirit of Radio!

I was fortunate to see them live in 2007 on the Snakes and Arrows tour. Out of 100+ concerts including Van Halen 8 times .. Rush was the best live show I ever witnessed, The musicianship on that stage was incredible.

Asia and BJ, the song is about 3 extremly shy guys restling with instant fame. They were not at all comfortable with it...When their album (Moving Pictures) came out, all of a sudden everyone wanted a piece of them.

Have to listen to a RUSH song 5 times... 1) drums first 2) base second 3) guitar 3rd 4) lyrics next 5) put it all together....MAGIC

Great review!! I love seeing young folk discover the music I fell in love with over 40 years ago! Talent lasts forever!

Basically Neil Peart is your favourite drummers favourite drummer .. GOAT 🐐

That Bass Line…. Never gets old.