May 4, 2008 – Concord, California, USA – NEIL PEART of RUSH live at Concord Pavilion. (Credit Image: © Jerome Brunet/ZUMA Press)

The news of the legendary Rush drummer Neil Peart’s retirement from music is not entirely surprising. Both Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson had said that it didn’t look good for the band following the last tour. Neil suffered a lot during the tour from tendinitis. Let’s remember that drumming is as physical as it gets especially when you play as Neil has for as long as he has.

Of course this is a sad announcement for all Rush fans but it’s also understandable. Drumming is a young man’s sport and Neil also has a young family that he hates being apart from. Who could fault him for wanting to walk away? When it gets down to it, his health and well-being are really all that matters and should matter.

But where does this leave Rush? Geddy has hinted lately that he might do another solo album. Surely, Alex will keep himself busy as well. But the band is done if this is indeed an all encompassing retirement. Since touring is the main problem (not the only one), is it possible that Neil would consider just recording music? I suppose we can hold out some hope for that.

It’s still quite early in all of this. Who knows what a few years off might bring? Is Neil willing to walk away completely? Alex and Geddy will probably do their best to give him space and see how things evolve. Regardless, Neil Peart redefined modern rock drumming. He also gave us some of the most memorable lyrics of our time.

Enjoy yourself, Neil. You’ve more than earned it. Thank you.