How Neil inspired people
On January 11, we as asked Twitter followers how Neil Peart inspired them. In reading through these responses, it's astonishing to see the impact Neil had on so many people. From inspiring drummers to pick up the sticks to showing other musicians what a drummer could do. His books, and especially Ghost Rider, offered people illumination and hope. But most of all, Neil showed us how important it was to live each day to its fullest.
Reading “Ghost Rider”
— BellaDawn (@belladg3) January 11, 2020
may have very well saved my life.
Just heartbroken 💔 pic.twitter.com/6bKp8Iugit
What an amazing story he's had. His intestinal fortitude, his desire to overcome, and his dedication to the craft could be an inspiration to anyone, musician or not. #RIPNeilPeart
— DrumzNBass (@DrumzB) January 11, 2020
I always respected Neil’s privacy. Never did I want to be “that fan”. But I always hoped we would cross paths on 2 wheels. Share a ride, a glass of the McCallan and a handshake.
— Ryan Eaton (@ryaneaton) January 11, 2020
Ghost Rider got me back into motorcycling. 30,000 miles in 4 years, often with Rush’s music in my helmet. 3 days ago, I started listening to it on Audiobook, my own healing road needed after losing our son to opioids 3 years ago. I still have healing to do,this book is helping.
— richardmontgomery2499 (@richard94795684) January 11, 2020
He played as he wanted to play, regardless of trends.
— Paul Mason (@TempusDrums) January 11, 2020
He stood alone as a unique stylist, a rare achievement in any era.
He embodied focus, dedication and determination in the face of all obstacles.
I love writing and literature and immediately connected to Rush when I was young. Now I teach English and use Neil’s lyrics to teach symbolism, metaphor, mood and tone, while introducing new generations to Rush every year. My principal dubbed it Rush-ian 101. 😜
— Michelle Traver (@michelle_traver) January 11, 2020
First saw Rush in 1976 with bandmates - we were 13 (do the math). Caress of Steel tour at the Palace in NY. The following week we started learning Rush tunes and never stopped. Life took us to different places but we still get together every year and play. R.I.P. Professor.
— Karma (@KarmadicKarma) January 11, 2020
It's not putting it mildly when I say I wouldn't be the person I am today without Rush.
— Gregg #BLM (@sirclinksalot) January 11, 2020
It meant so much to me to be there at that last show in 2015, meant so much to all of us there.
But more than that, I'm glad I got to experience Rush with my wife, my son, my friends.
My first Rush concert was 1980. I was 15. From there l was hooked. Missed only 1 tour since 1980. I am now 53. It’s like l lost a high school buddy l met back then and kept in touch with. And now he’s gone. Prayers for The family, Dirk, Lerxt. Truly sad.#RIPPRATT
— Gump (@gump66_major) January 11, 2020
By saving my life. I was 13, had a terrible home life, and heard 'Freewill' for the first time... The lyrics uplifted me (and of course, led me to listen to more Rush!) and galvanized me. Still my favorite song. And damn if the man didn't keep writing even better lyrics!
— Mark Irwin (@1JackSecret) January 11, 2020
Neil Peart inspired me to pay more attention to the rhythm section of a band. He also created this sense of lyrics do matter and can add so much more to a song.
— bassplayer2112 (@bassplayer21121) January 11, 2020
You know something exactly . When I listened to Rush when I was a kid I never knew who the drummer was but that's what I listened to was the rhythm the beat sometimes I'd take it all in instead of dancing and I love dancing!💖
— Donna Marie Ohrling (@donna_ohrling) January 11, 2020
The journey into #NeilPeart soul, as described in his book Ghost Rider, brought me to know him as more than just a great drummer and lyricist. Neil taught us how to battle, dream, love and cope, in his own mysterious way. Rest on peace. pic.twitter.com/Ah6Gviu9NZ
— John Ahrens (@S4audifanatic) January 11, 2020
I’ve also said there’s a Rush song for every occasion. It’s the power of the lyrics perfectly blended with the power of the song. From overcoming numerous hardships to finding the power to soothe or motivate, the lyrics have helped me and so many others find sense and purpose.
— Kevin Brigandi (@KevinBrigandi) January 12, 2020
Neil made me a better drummer & musician...can't stress that enough
— Matt the Drummer (@MattFoFdrummer) January 11, 2020
He’s the reason I picked up drumsticks and aspired to be a better musician to this day
— Nells Pratt (@pratt2007) January 11, 2020
Neil was a guy who even after all he went through, rose up and did something not a lot of people could do, he rose above it all and inspired to push forward. I’ll never forget how much it meant to see him come back with a new outlook in his songs and when I was down his playing
— Nick Lapolla (@bigshadow1138) January 11, 2020
Neil was my mentor through headphones growing up sitting on my kit in the garage listening for every subtlety that kept me mesmerized for hours upon hours. I love Rush so much. I’m so sad.
— NWCoin (@CoinNw) January 12, 2020
In my early teens I was aware Neils’ lyrics were different from all others. Now, in my 50s, I have (throughout life) learned to understand them more and more.
— Mark Willett (@markwillett7) January 12, 2020
In some ways they provide a guide to assist with life’s issues.
He inspired me to grab a pair of sticks and play drums! ❤️
— 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗼 𝗕𝗶𝗰𝗰𝗮 Drummer (@mbicca) January 13, 2020
My tribute to the immortal #NeilPeart, one recognizing genius comes in many forms and we were blessed beyond words to experience those Neil shared with all of us.#NeilPeartRIP
— Brian Robin (@birdscribe) January 13, 2020
https://t.co/NpXuNat9Pb
Being a Drummer myself, I was influenced by Neil Peart in my drumming for the past 42 years! His drumming skills are unmatched in the history of modern music! I recorded a tribute to Neil Peart yesterday, I hope you and Neil’s fans like what I have done. https://t.co/6T3ZMoc2qm
— Zest Radio Show (@ZestRadioShow) January 13, 2020
Inspired me by writing lyrics and music with two other guys that made me feel so great and happy. It’s that simple.?
— D Miller (@dgm2112) January 13, 2020
It’s hard enough to count the years he inspired me; it’s impossible to count the ways. But as legendary as his musicianship was, I believe his character was even more exceptional. I showed up for the music. I stayed for the class. God bless Neil Peart.
— Jeff Valin (@JeffValin) January 12, 2020
Amazingly prophetic lyrics with truth that inspires me. Love Peart and Rush. Also helped make me a musician and major in Philosophy.
— KarmaRose (@StarkResonance) January 12, 2020
Neil's lyrics and musicianship helped Me to work harder and push myself as Neil did. I truly enjoyed the lyrics and music growing up and it gave Me inspiration to be my best, that I don't think could have come from anywhere else. RIP Neil.
— Rob Cassiani (@robcassiani) January 12, 2020
Realizing that Rush was a Band only consisting of three guys but making noise for a full set amazed me in the first place. Then listening to the Exit.. Stage left album i was overly impressed by the drum solos. Just overwhelming. NP is the greatest Drummer of all times.
— Sandmännchen (@chrissprspcr) January 13, 2020
I am a doctor but his foray into writing led me to pursue writing as well. I ended up writing the health article 4 Modern Drummer magazine for 9 yrs. I got to meet the late Bill Miller and some of my other heroes bc of that pursuit. RIP Neil. #URmissed
— Spy Convention (@SpyConvention) January 14, 2020
I woke up this morning to a world without Neil Peart.
— Rob Taylor (@robtaylorrolls) January 14, 2020
how could one live in that kind of world.
he answered it for all of us
be the best you can be never let the hero inside you fade
He was that hero, when I met him in 1977 at age 15, he gave me the courage to face a lifetime.
Neil inspired me to read books, thanks for all the wonderful books written over the years.
— KLEEN KAR COLORADO (@Rll314) January 11, 2020
Gave me endless Hours of happiness as a youth, helped shape it. Made me a better drummer by emulating. Help me connect with other musicians by association.
— Greg Glasscock (@gregoryy2k) January 11, 2020
I'm a keyboard player, but Rush opened my eyes to the world of prog rock and changed everything about the way I play and listen to music going forward. Wiothout Rush, my musical world would be completed different.
— Damon (@dfibraio) January 11, 2020
Hook, line and sinker from the moment I was swept up in the storyline about The Priest on 2112. And as he evolved into almost every aspect of topic you could think of, he changed not just me but others. “He only introduced me to a wider reality.”
— shane nielsen (@shanenielsen17) January 11, 2020
Just loved the drumming !! To this day I have a tama double bass set just like his ... all the correct cymbals and cow bells !! I still play it but now my middle son gets the most use of it .. he and his band mates played Tom Sawyer at a school function recently .
— edd (@etdedd2112) January 11, 2020
His drum composition was masterful and taught me so much about playing and practicing.
— Goose (@_the_goose) January 11, 2020
Besides being the best drummer in history, I so admired how Neil just wanted privacy. He didn’t want the rock n roll lifestyle. He was so humble.
— Randy Kleiger (@macpilot1) January 11, 2020
To be the best at your craft and still exhibit the humbleness is a lesson to everyone. "The professor on the drumkit" is missed by all.
— michael j (@michaelthomas7) January 11, 2020
7th grade...Permanent Waves...beating on the headboard of my bed...mom comes in and tells me to stop...signs me up for drum lessons. Switched to bass and have been playing music for 35 yrs. All thanks to Neil.
— Mike Harvey (@jusdafacts) January 11, 2020
I was a Rush fan instantly when I was introduced to R n R by my big brother. We wore out two cassettes of moving pictures the summer of 81 I believe. Rush Makes me think of my brother now that he is gone also. Maybe Neil will play bucket drums for “ Mo” in the subways of heaven!!
— Rick M. (@loudog2) January 11, 2020
He inspired to master the air drums. All the time. Even in public (think the VW commercial).
— Boring Twitt*r Guy (@TDRup) January 11, 2020
Neil was such a talented, gifted writer. My middle school years were very lonely and Neil was the only rock musician writing about existential crisis. He was a friend to a sad young boy he never met but touched through his work. I will miss him greatly and always be in his debt.
— seamonster (@NorthSeamonster) January 11, 2020
Neil inspires me to be a better writer, and to feel music beyond just listening to it. I am grateful that his talent and passion will be ours forever to cherish.
— Marie Richter (@RichterWriter) January 11, 2020
Exit... Stage Left completely sold me on RUSH.
— MERCURY WAVE PORTAL (@Chaz_Mattson) January 11, 2020
As a young teen I'd plug in the old school head phones close my eyes and be transported somewhere else. I'd fall asleep listening to the vinyl over & over - wore the grooves out.
My dream was to learn from Neil - The Professor!
At the age of 9 hearing Neil on Grace Under Pressure—I thought there was more than one drummer. When I discovered it was just HIM, that, mixed with Geddy and Alex, was all it took to hook me forever. I picked up a set of sticks and have been playing drums for almost 40 years.
— N3bb1sh (@N3bb1sh) January 11, 2020
Growing up in the late 70s for me was RUSH. But Neil, somehow found a way to transcend other great drummers in that era, & any after. I WANTED to be a drummer because of Neil.
— All-Father Buscemi Throgg (@lockedinmylair) January 11, 2020
Thank you for giving us a way to remember you forever.. Music
A Music God is with the Universe R.I.P pic.twitter.com/suMuKxAhCu
2112 was the first song is ever heard that just reached out and grabbed me and held me and really never let go. Neil's lyrics were genius and his mastery of his craft has always been an inspiration to so many. Consoled by the fact that the music will live forever.
— The Body Electric 🇨🇦 (@DarinBlack8) January 11, 2020
The lyrics to 2112 took me to another world. I play it every year on New Year’s Eve. Been doing it for almost 30 years.
— mgiv (@marshall_iv) January 11, 2020
He challenged to think about the world and people in it with different shades than were my own. He offered me words of such inspiration and insightfulness that my view of the world & life is simply a collage of lyrical tidbits.
— Dave (@dtpkll) January 11, 2020
Rush were the reason I learned to play the bass, and their remarkable , uncompromising, creative, and leftfield career well into middle age and beyond, was the reason I felt empowered to strive to make my own music .
— Richard Tofts (@RichardTofts) January 11, 2020
Neil got me into drumming in 4th grade, after being blown away by his playing. He also got me into reading. I'd listen to the albums and read through the lyrics over and over until I had them memorized. Didn't know what they meant 'til years later, but I could recite them all.
— TwoCatsYelling (@TwoCatsYelling) January 11, 2020
— Laura Bennett (@Me2nd2nun) January 11, 2020
While we all know his music and lyrics were incredible, his books took me to a whole new level of respect and admiration. They took me across the country with him, and into his complex mind. He was a master and will be greatly missed on this earth.
— Veronica (Ronnie) (@musicronnie) January 11, 2020
I got hooked on RUSH music from the age of 13. Started with 2 songs. Tom Sawyer and Red Barchetta. Played those 2 songs over and over. Finally started buying more CDs. Found out later Neil wrote most the lyrics and studied them. They are more than words, they are art, stories!
— Randy Baker (@BakerRandy) January 11, 2020
I would not be the person I am today without Neils lyrics. Shaped my decision making, got me through times of indecision, taught me to push ahead, look at people,the world and life very different than the average person, my anesthesiologists pegged it when he called him a savant
— Paramedic International Unified SAR (@paramedic_int) January 11, 2020
I believe it was 1979 in Portland OR. My friend and I snuck in and helped set up chairs while they did a sound check. Front row seats!
— Stop the CNP 🇺🇸 (@soi6robert) January 11, 2020
Neil took the time to shake my hand.
Its his motorcycle ride through Canada into Mexico that inspires me to travel.
Hey from Tokyo. #NeilPeart was my inspiration to become a writer. In high school used to get out the dictionary at times to learn what he was on about. Neil, to use his own words, "only introduced me to a wider reality." I owe him.
— William Pesek (@WilliamPesek) January 11, 2020
The album, the lyrics, the tour, the anticipation of the next album and learning the drum fills by heart.
— Richard Tickner (@rtickner) January 11, 2020
He is the reason I ever picked up a pair of sticks in the first place.
— StaresMotherfuckerly (@jdfrank74) January 11, 2020
Neil sent me two postcards. As a young aspiring drummer, I can’t describe what it meant to me. It said a lot about who he was. Neil influenced my life far beyond drums and as many others have expressed I wouldn’t be who I am without Neil. Good to know he will live on in so many
— Devin Russell (@DevinRu19353137) January 11, 2020
When I heard Cygnus X-1 Book II: Hemispheres I decided to study science and my life changed forever...
— AmadeusRFL (@amadeus_nfl) January 11, 2020
As somewhat of a subdivisions type kid, he put my plight into perspective. His lyrics taught me history, compassion, inspired me. His drumming literally pushed me. Thank you, Professor! #NeilPeartRIP
— Baseball_lexicon_PhD (@baseball_lex15) January 11, 2020
Where do I start? Honestly...for his influence on my life AND my music, I owe him a debt I could never repay...to put that in 140 characters is akin to asking me to fit 3 gallons of water in a shot glass.
— daniel sattazahn (@dansattazahn) January 11, 2020
He inspired me to value personal freedom and aspire to mold a new reality #closertotheheart
— Rebecca aldrich (@beccaldrich1) January 11, 2020
He inspired me not to compromise and to be excellent at my craft...to always strive for excellence and set the standard...RIP Neil...
— Richard W Rossicone (@rossicone) January 11, 2020
He was and still a great influence on my drumming and also a enormous example as am artist and professional musician. Whole world will miss him!!
— Paulinho Sorriso (@paulinhosorriso) January 11, 2020
I did air drumming automatically every time I listening to rush and today I really really sad. No need any reason to explain why I'm sad.
— Cokun (@cokun___) January 11, 2020
Not only his drumming, but the lyrics affect me going through difficult times in my life, songs like The Pass, Middletown Dreams, Emotion Detector, Vital Signs, Analog Kid, Afterimage and Kid Gloves really has impact on my life. #NeilPeartRIP
— Muhammad Firman (@firmanfloydrush) January 11, 2020
I started drumming around age 14 in 1981. I used to play the Tom Sawyer single over and over to learn exactly what Neil was doing. I always loved how he created drum parts that were meant to be learned and played the same way everytime. You dont just wing it.
— Mike Mosher Sr. (@m_mosher2112) January 11, 2020
He saved me when I was down and a lonely teenager. The songs and lyrics of two songs... Entire Nous and Grand Designs. Several albums apart yet stories of my life. He taught me to be a better person. I will truly miss him.
— Carroll Scudder (@scudskat) January 11, 2020
He made me want to play drums. When I started playing I realised just how damn good he was.
— Rick Taylor (@rickeysticks80) January 11, 2020
Neil was the reason I started playing the drums and writing lyrics in my younger days when I was a drummer. He played a huge influence on me. He was the drummer I tried to emulate in so many ways.
— Dominic Burford (@DomBurf) January 11, 2020
He inspired me with his all around drumming and the way he could drum off beat and get back into the regular beat like it was nothing. To hear @rushtheband on the radio during my teenage years was awesome. When I finally got to see them in 2002, I was blown away by the whole band
— Michael Cooper (@CooperMichaelB) January 11, 2020
R.I.P. Neil Peart Drummer of the rock band RUSH. In high school I used to write my essays and book reports with RUSH playing in the background. Once wrote a whole comic book inspired by "New World Man" #RIPNeilPeart
— Albert Ornelas (@OCGente) January 11, 2020
Rush and Neil inspired millions of us to follow our dreams, listen to our hearts and always be true to ourselves, while always being kind to others. They were a philosophy as taught by The Professor himself.
— Paiste777 (@DPW35407662) January 11, 2020
Neil’s motivating, inspirational, theater of the mind evoking songs helped me cope with life. I hope he knew how important he was to so many.
— Redbird Avenger (@slappyvedder) January 11, 2020
He made me not only a better DRUMMER and Musician... he made me a better STUDENT and PERSON!
— JS Connolly (@connolly_js) January 11, 2020
When I first started drumming at age 13... if I wasn't doing good in school... my parents wouldn't let me play UNTIL my homework was done! So I made SURE I had it all done in school!
I used to be a drummer; then I was run over by a car, losing the use of most of my left side and a brain injury. I was devastated- but by watching as many videos of Neil I could, I figured out how I could drum again. I myself only have a short time; he made my life better by 100%
— Evangelina Corona (@EndlessEvvva) January 12, 2020
I was 10 when I first found a single in my sisters boyfriends records. It was Passage and Sawyer from ESL. I was hooked from then on, I listened to them songs for days on repeat, and as a kid who loved drums, Neil was the man. God speed Neil
— Stewie 🏳️🌈🇬🇧🇵🇱 (@Stewielad) January 11, 2020
I played drums and loved his unique style , what a influence he has been on my playing 🕺♥️
— Beverly Warren (@BeverlyWarrren) January 11, 2020
Loved his writing as much as his drumming! Will miss the Roadcraft adventure stories.
— Municipal Graphics (@MunicipGraphics) January 11, 2020
I saw Rush (for the first time) in 1978 in Bristol at The Colston Hall. We were in second row from the front of the stage.
— daren (@daren80292082) January 11, 2020
They were beyond brilliant.
I remember my friends and I giving the thumbs up to Neil.
I remember him smiling at us.
He was so inspirational.
There was something profound in every lyric that would relate to some aspect of my life, help me through a rough period, bring a new perspective, make me ponder a different reality, and inspire the human spirit. And Ghost Rider helped myself and my mom after we lost dad.
— Vince (@liberty72521) January 11, 2020
In my teens in the mid seventies the music of Rush and Neil's words helped me find who I was. The music and his lyrics connected with me and have helped me through difficult times in life and have been there for all the good times. #RIPNeilPeart
— Phil Bannister (@PhilBannister1) January 11, 2020
Without Neil and Rush (with Phil and Genesis) I would never have picked up the sticks and had over 15 years of nonsense with some great musicians. Devastating loss
— Weekend Hacker. 🏴 (@Doncampbell70) January 11, 2020
His lyrics and writing were fascinating and many times told the story of my life. He had an uplifting way about him.
— Scott Julian (@Rush1974_2112) January 11, 2020
Everybody agrees that Neil’s drumming was on another plane, however his song writing has really left its mark with me. Many of his songs are simply poetic and stand alone from the (incredible) music. Thank you Neil, Rest in peace.
— Bryan Battle (@slosh66) January 11, 2020
I was inspired
— Plongeur Recco (@Fkavipela) January 11, 2020
1. As a teenage drummer.
2. As a grown up by his lyrics
3. As a middle aged, by his humble being, his personality, and view on life and our world.
My best friend introduced me to Rush while we struggled with physics homework in high school. We were not cool, nor was Test for Echo, but that album lit up my imagination 22 years ago, as it does on this sad morning. RIP Neil
— RWoods2112 (@WoodyRuss) January 11, 2020
Rush spoke to my heart, song after song Neil's lyrics got me through life.
— Pip Cooper (@Pixil8) January 11, 2020
My dad had brain tumour, first thing I did was play Rush. Driving lonely miles back n forth over long hard months, Rush accompanied every heart breaking step n held me together.
💔💔💔 Farewell to a king
All the different sounds he used to fill in gaps,the different strategy he'd approach to make the song work to make the album.
— Dean (@Dean30708846) January 11, 2020
He inspired me to write, to dream, to try and be the best at whatever I chose to do, to be an individual and have independent thoughts, to push myself. He was intertwined with so many memories of my life.
— Blamethrower (@ShakedownSteve) January 11, 2020
My bro Don intro’ed me to Rush in ‘81 & it changed my life. We sat for hrs rewinding Rush tapes 2 figure out lyrics b4 internet existed. For Don’s 46th bday, I got us 2nd row for R40! Sadly, I lost Don 2 esophageal CA last May. Rush was a central theme of his funeral. RIP Neil.
— BigT34 (@bigtmd2007) January 11, 2020
He inspired me to make the most of each day and make every effort count. Like the song Time & Motion, days connect like boxcars, fill them up, squeeze in all you can find. Loved his lyrics.
— Pat Tinney (@Pat_Tinney) January 11, 2020
I saw Rush at the Calgary Saddledome in 2015. This photo replicates the view I had from the 3rd row. A night I will never forget. If Neil did it, I tried it...almost always failing to get even close to what he was playing. Every single day I think of how to play a NP drum part.
— Douglas Taylor (@DJTcar88) January 11, 2020
Be the best you can be. He wanted to be good, not famous. He was both.
— Dave Yoder (@DaveYoder19) January 12, 2020
I had the great honor of working with Neil on the recording of the audiobook for “Clockwork Angels.” He was generous, kind, talented and a joy to work with. May he Rest In Peace.
— francescaamari (@francescaamari) January 12, 2020
To appreciate drumming in a whole new way
— BEN (@24mobius42) January 12, 2020
This...since I was 12...I'm 49 now..Neil was my childhood idol and still.... pic.twitter.com/NjPvs9us5i
— Kevin C. (@kcompte1122) January 12, 2020
While staying at a friends house in 1979, he asked if I’d ever heard 2112. I hadn’t. Before he played the album on a hi-fi, he said this will change your life. It did. I’d introduced Rush to my wife,kids, etc. it’s the soundtrack of my life and a common bond with best friends! ❤️
— Kevin Brigandi (@KevinBrigandi) January 12, 2020
I'm in my mid 40s now and while 2112 came out when I was about 3, I can say that not only did it get me through a lot of stuff for 35 years but it also gave me meaning for life. Just look at my Twitter handle and picture (unchanged for years now). I was devastated 5 years ago.
— StarMan (@StarMan71826061) January 12, 2020
Even more than his jaw dropping drumming, his wordskills blew me away from the day I first heard them. His travel writings are also a joy.
— Mark McAndrew (@markmcan) January 12, 2020
RIP Milton Banana 😥 https://t.co/4EMFUjRvLI
He is the reason I play it's his fault, ever since I heard Tom Sawyer for the first time I said I'm going to do that. pic.twitter.com/OW22dUgNFk
— paul kiff (@bigkiffy) January 11, 2020
Listening to some of his lyrics led me to read many books I wouldn’t have know about. His quite humour and inner strength came across in his books which are an inspiration to anyone. Drummer, musician, lyricist and to his two band mates a friend. X
— Ross Knowles (@Ross65) January 11, 2020
To be the best that you can possibly be at whatever you do in life.
— Sue Verica (@vericafamily) January 14, 2020
He still inspires me to be my own hero. Be the best I can at what I choose.
— Bad Space Hombre 697 (@sdarpel) January 15, 2020
Always thought I knew the lyrics to RUSH songs , till one day I was bored and pulled out the lyrics listening along and from that day forward I needed to read each and every song.
— Now you Can't leave (@HesTNTonPMS) January 16, 2020
What I thought I was hearing was only because my vocabulary was a bit limited, I feel there are 10's
of thousands of fans and people who might not be fans that still do not know. . . .which in a way is good for them, prepare to have your mind blown all over again and I am not that easy to impress, his drumming is what captured me, his lyrics are what enchanted me
— Now you Can't leave (@HesTNTonPMS) January 16, 2020
His ability to distill intellectual and academic ideas and make them accessible. His constant striving for improvement, philosophical truth, and virtuosity. His modesty and forthrightness. He was truly a great man and the world is a lesser place without him.
— Anthony Salciccioli (@SauceWH) January 11, 2020
I was lucky enough to attend a Rush concert in Casper, WY in the early 70’s and will never forget Neil’s epic drum solo using fluorescent sticks with the arena lights off. He was a true artist and master craftsmen who influenced me immensely.
— Rich Herrmann (@rich_herrmann) January 11, 2020
I woke up this morning hoping it wasn’t true. Neil inspired me in many ways. My brother David and I would read his lyrics without the music and be motivated to write more. My husband and I adore his books and loved him so much.I quoted him in my HS yearbook.
— Jennifer Anne Gormen (@JenGormen) January 11, 2020
Through his lyrics, Neil touched so many people in so many ways. Every single Rush fan has one song that they feel Neil wrote for them. One Word. One Line. One Lyric. One Song. The world has lost a storyteller that spoke words we could all relate to. Farewell, Neil. Thank You.
— Christopher Bollotta (@TheGrumpyJester) January 11, 2020
I was introduced to Rush at age 11 and it fostered a deep love for music and percussion that has carried me through my entire life. I used to draw inspiration in required creative writing classes by the great words Neil would string together. I play daily because of him.
— Todd Brenkman (@ToddBrenkman) January 11, 2020
I was a Rush fan from the beginning even though they started with John Rutsey, but I wore the needle out playing 2112 while air drumming to it all. So many song penned by a brilliant mind, I cant help but requesting to have this song played at my eulogy.https://t.co/w6xyl0yKAH
— Ron Gibbon (@RonGibbon) January 11, 2020
Neil is the reason I started playing drums some 40+ years ago. He was my hero, inspiration, and teacher. Though I never even met him, this news has brought tears to my eyes and my life will never be the same knowing he's gone. Wish I could give Alex and Geddy a big hug right now.
— Christopher Fricke (@Christo11672522) January 11, 2020
Wake up every day 25yrs+ tapping yyz on counter with a butter knife waiting for my toast to pop, it reminds me to make it the best day ever.
— Victim of venomous fate (@Douglas21053821) January 11, 2020
First time I heard Rush early 80s a friend introduced the band to me with cassette tape 1st song Tom Sawyer I was shocked amazed impressed from that day on I was a RUSH FAN FOREVER! Neil was my single biggest influence to play drums. Thank you Neil!!! 😢 RIP!
— Raffaele (@satrn5) January 11, 2020
He is the best, the greatest of all times! What powerful music is... Rush is an important part of my life, I’ll be grateful all my life. Thank you, Professor! 🇧🇷🇨🇦
— Túlio M G Barros (@TulioMGBarros) January 11, 2020
I’ve loved Rush since 78. I’ve seen them live a lot but in 2015 travelled from New Zealand to Calgary for one last concert. I’m glad I did. It was a privilege to watch and listen to them. And Neil was something special. Thank you.
— Mark Bryan (@MarkBryanNZ) January 11, 2020
I was a military brat who never quite fit into a particular group. When I heard “Subdivisions” for the first time, it sounded like someone had written a song for me, about the way I looked at life. From that moment on, Rush was MY band. #RIPNeilPeart #RushForever #RushFamily
— Middletown Dreamer (@xanadude_2112) January 11, 2020
He inspired me to be a better drummer. Simple Fact,He was one of the best drummers to grace this world.
— Inca Roads (@PaulDiana18) January 11, 2020
Seeing @rushtheband for the first time in high school, the Presto tour, I was amazed. I was captured particularly by Neil. Coming full circle to the R40 tour and taking my sons and nephew to see Neil and @rushtheband was an experience we will never forget. #RIPNeilPeart
— Michael Rees (@daviddrum5) January 11, 2020
Ghost rider helped me deal with personal tradegy, watching & listening to him play or speak was inspiring, seeing him live, unforgettable. Honoured to see final UK tour. R.I.P professor.
— Mike Johnson (@johno20mike) January 11, 2020
Of all the drummers in Rock...Neil was “the drummer” in my book. So many memorable drum riffs and all ya fans would play air drums to Rush songs. Vaya Con Dios amigo.
— Jose E. Sauceda (@joechalupa) January 11, 2020
Very sad to hear of Neil's passing. Growing up I spent hours daydreaming I was drumming like him. My heartfelt condolences to Neil's family. He was amazing. RIP Neil Peart!
— Darren E. Vollmann (@DarrenEVollmann) January 11, 2020