Rush Bassist Geddy Lee Discusses Neil Peart Retirement Story

Yesterday, we reported on Rush drummer Neil Peart’s comments in the November/December issue of Drumhead Magazine. Peart said his daughter Olivia, “has been introducing me to new friends at school as ‘My dad– He’s a retired drummer.'” He acknowledged Olivia’s comments as, “True to say–funny to hear. And it does not pain me to realize that, like all athletes, there comes a time to… take yourself out of the game” which implied Peart has retired. Rush bassist Geddy Lee clarified Neil’s comments in a chat with Prog Magazine.

Geddy Lee told Prog Magazine Peart doesn’t want to embark on lengthy tours anymore, but his comments to Drumhead shouldn’t be taken as a sign Neil is officially retired or that Rush is done. “I think Neil is just explaining his reasons for not wanting to tour, with the toll that it’s taking on his body,” Lee said. “We’ll get together eventually and chat about things. But in my view, there is certainly nothing surprising in what he said. Neil just feels that he has to explain with all the thousands of people asking, ‘Why no more tours?’ He needs to explain his side of it.”

When asked whether Neil Peart’s comments were taken out of context, Lee responded “I think that’s absolutely right. That’s their job. Talking about something when there’s nothing to talk about.” In a previous interview Geddy made it clear the ball is in Neil’s court when it comes to the future of Rush and that he expected the trio to get together early next year to discuss the situation. Stay tuned!