Neil Peart, the drummer of iconic progressive rockers Rush, has died at age 67. The influential musician and lyricist died last Tuesday in Santa Monica, California, after having lost the battle with brain cancer, according to a statement issued by family spokesperson Elliot Mintz.

His death was confirmed by Meg Symsyk, a media spokesperson for the progressive rock trio, and Rush's Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson have issued a statement on the death of their "friend, soul brother and band mate of over 45 years."

Neil Peart was born on September 12th, 1952, in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada and first lived on the family dairy farm, near Hagersville. After the family moved to nearby St. Catharines, he began drum lessons at age thirteen. At eighteen, Peart moved to London, England, a time about which he has said: "I was seeking fame and fortune, and found anonymity and poverty. But I learned a lot about life."

Returning to Canada in 1972, he began working at his father's farm equipment dealership, playing part-time in local bands. In July, 1974, he auditioned for an unknown Toronto band, and joined Rush on the eve of their first American release and tour. Peart appeared on the band's second album, Fly By Night, in 1975, contributing most of the lyrics - as he would throughout their career.

Along with writing impressive lyrics, Peart was renowned for his technical expertise, his unique performance style, and his dazzling fusions of hard rock and jazz. He is considered by many to be one of the most gifted and electrifying rock drummers of all time and one of the most innovative drummers in rock history. Peart was famous for his state-of-the-art drum kits, his precise style of playing and his onstage showmanship. He retired from professional drumming, and Rush, in 2015. The trio was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1994, the Canadian Songwriter Hall of Fame in 2010 and the U.S. Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2013.

Our condolences go out to his family. May he rest in peace.

Source:	cbc.ca
Band profile:	Rush