Rush is a Canadian rock band formed in 1968 in Toronto by bassist and vocalist Geddy Lee, guitarist Alex Lifeson, and drummer Neil Peart. Rush is widely regarded as one of the most influential and innovative progressive rock bands of all time. The band’s complex compositions, intricate musicianship, and philosophical lyrics helped define the genre, and their influence can still be felt in the music of many rock bands today. Rush’s early music was heavily influenced by hard rock and the British progressive rock scene, drawing on bands like Led Zeppelin and Yes. Their self-titled debut album, Rush (1974), showcased their raw energy and musical skill, but it wasn’t until their third album, 2112 (1976), that the band truly began to define their unique sound. 2112 is a concept album that tells the story of a dystopian future in which music is controlled by a totalitarian government. The album’s blend of hard rock, progressive rock, and science fiction themes became a hallmark of the band’s style. Over the next decade, Rush released a string of highly successful albums, including A Farewell to Kings (1977), Hemispheres (1978), and Permanent Waves (1980), each showcasing the band’s technical prowess and lyrical depth. The band’s musical complexity, particularly Peart’s drumming, made them a favorite among fans of progressive rock and heavy metal. The band’s 1981 album, Moving Pictures, is often considered their magnum opus, with tracks like “Tom Sawyer” and “Limelight” becoming staples of classic rock radio. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Rush continued to evolve their sound, incorporating elements of synthesizers and new wave influences into their music, as seen on albums like Signals (1982) and Grace Under Pressure (1984). Despite their evolving sound, Rush remained true to their progressive rock roots, delivering complex compositions and introspective lyrics. The band’s influence on rock and metal is immense, with artists from Metallica to Foo Fighters citing Rush as a key influence. After a career that spanned more than four decades, the band went on hiatus in 2015, following Peart’s retirement due to health issues. Rush’s legacy remains cemented as one of the most important and respected rock bands in history.