“To those that have said I inspired them to start drumming, the first thing I say is: ‘I apologise to your parents!’”: A rare interview with legendary drummer Neil Peart of Rush

Neil Peart performing with Rush in 2012.

DRUMS WEEK 2025: Neil Peart was one of the greatest drummers that ever lived. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, he joined Canadian trio Rush in 1974 and also served as the band’s primary lyricist.

Peart rarely gave interviews in the last years of his life, but in 2012, during a Rush tour, he spoke to our sister magazine Classic Rock about his career, his lyrics and the art of drumming.