The Rush drummer — pictured left alongside guitarist Alex Lifeson and bassist and vocalist Geddy Lee — passed away on January 7 from brain cancer Glioblastoma, from which he had been suffering for three and a half years. The news was confirmed by the band in a statement posted to their official Facebook page.
Peart was born on September 12, 1952 in Ontario, Canada. He began drumming in his early teens and played with local bands. He joined Rush in 1974, following the departure of their original drummer John Rutsey, and also went on to become their main lyricist. He enjoyed a 45 year career with the band.
As well as being regarded as one of world's best rock drummers, Peart released a number of non fiction books that detailed his life behind and beyond the kit, focusing on his travels. He also turned his hand to fiction, releasing the Clockwork Angels series, among others.
Alongside his prolific career with Rush, Peart found time for some side projects, including two Buddy Rich tribute albums during the 1990s. He was one of many American jazz drummers that Peart greatly admired.
Rush released their last album, 'Clockwork Angels', in 2012 and in 2019 put out the documentary film Cinema Strangiato: An Annual Exercise In Fan Indulgence. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013 and have more than 30 records in their back catalogue, including studio and live albums.
Since the news of Peart's passing there has been an outpour of tributes from the music community, including a heartfelt statement from Foo Fighters members Dave Grohl and Taylor Hawkins.
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