Rush drummer Neil Peart died from brain cancer on January 7 at the age of 67, the Canadian band announced today.
“It is with broken hearts and the deepest sadness that we must share the terrible news that on Tuesday our friend, soul brother and band mate of over 45 years, Neil, has lost his incredibly brave three and a half year battle with brain cancer (Glioblastoma),” said Rush in a statement. “We ask that friends, fans, and media alike understandably respect the family’s need for privacy and peace at this extremely painful and difficult time.
"Those wishing to express their condolences can choose a cancer research group or charity of their choice and make a donation in Neil Peart’s name.
“Rest in peace brother.”
Peart had reportedly struggled through Rush’s 40th anniversary R40 Live tour with some health issues, including arthritis, before the band played their final show at The Forum in Los Angeles on August 1, 2015.
Bassist and frontman Geddy Lee confirmed in late 2018 that Peart – who maintained a low profile throughout the group’s career – had retired from drumming.
Rush formed in 1968 in Toronto’s Willowdale neighborhood when guitarist Alex Lifeson started a high school band that eventually included his classmate, Lee, on vocals, bass and keyboards; drummer Peart, from St. Catharines, ON, joined the band in 1974.
Peart was also on board as the group’s lyricist, from their second album, 1975’s “Fly By Night”, through to their final studio release, 2012’s “Clockwork Angels.”
Rush were inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1994 and the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2013.
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