Rush’s Farewell: Lee and Lifeson Reflect on Regret, Legacy, and Peart

As a lifelong Rush fan, reading Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson open up about their farewell tour in Classic Rock magazine felt like peeking behind the curtain of rock history.
In the interview, they discussed their bittersweet goodbye, lingering regrets, and their steadfast commitment to preserving Rush’s legacy. It’s a story that strikes a chord with any music lover, especially those who followed Rush’s decades-long journey.
Regret and the Road Not Taken
When the R40 Live Tour wrapped in 2015, fans hoped it wouldn’t be the last chapter for Rush. Geddy and Alex now admit they share that same feeling. Both regret not extending the tour to Europe and other parts of the world. The decision to keep the tour limited boiled down to Neil Peart’s health and personal limits.
Neil, who was battling chronic physical pain and even a painful infection during the tour, set a strict limit of 30 shows. For a man renowned for his relentless precision behind the drums, his health struggles were heartbreaking. Yet, his choice to prioritize his well-being reflected his integrity and devotion to his craft.
The Final Curtain Call
The last concert of the tour, held in Los Angeles, was a night to remember. For Geddy and Alex, it was a bittersweet mix of emotions—pride in their performance and the weight of what they knew was the end. Geddy described the evening as a culmination of everything Rush had built, while Alex admitted the emotions were hard to contain.
There was a chance Rush could have continued in some capacity, but Neil’s decision to retire was final, and Geddy and Alex respected it fully. This decision became even more poignant after Neil’s passing in 2020 from glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer. His absence continues to cast a shadow over the band’s legacy and adds a layer of emotional weight to their reflections.
Legacy Over Profit
While fans have clamored for a reunion, Geddy and Alex are adamant: Rush ended when Neil retired. Though they occasionally play Rush songs privately, they’ve turned down multiple offers to reunite. Alex explained their stance plainly—reviving the band without Neil wouldn’t feel sincere. For them, Rush’s legacy is something to protect, not exploit for financial gain.
It’s a rare stance in today’s music industry, where reunions often feel like nostalgia cash grabs. Geddy and Alex’s commitment to honoring what Rush represented is a testament to their integrity as musicians and as friends.
Looking Forward
While Rush’s touring days are over, Geddy and Alex remain active. Geddy continues his passion for bass, writing, and his recent memoir, My Effin’ Life. Alex, too, has pursued various creative projects, including collaborations with other musicians. Together, they keep the spirit of Rush alive in ways that feel authentic, even if fans may never see them share the stage again.
For Rush fans, the story of the band’s farewell is one of heartbreak, admiration, and respect. It’s a reminder that even in saying goodbye, Rush stayed true to the ethos that made them legends.
Sources:
• Classic Rock Magazine, January 2025 Issue
• Peart, Neil. Ghost Rider: Travels on the Healing Road.
• Lee, Geddy. Geddy Lee’s Big Beautiful Book of Bass.