by Charles Warnock

Created on: July 29, 2008

Without a doubt the band Rush should be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Their induction is one that is long overdue. This remarkable band has performed together for more than three decades and is still going strong today. Their unique sound and their ability to change over the years without trying to sound like anyone else proves that they are indeed worthy of induction.

Since its first album release, "Rush", in 1974 the band has influenced many other bands from a wide variety of music genres. Its influence can be found in the works of Metallica, the Smashing Pumpkins and Primus just to name a few.
Each of the members of Rush stands at or near the top when compared to others in their area and each should probably be inducted on his own. Geddy Lee as both a vocalist and bassist has few peers in music history. His unique voice is easily identifiable and is the signature sound for this band. Lee has recieved numerous awards for his play on the bass by a variety of sources and his play has been a tremendous influence on a wide range of other bassist in the music industry including Steve Harris of Iron Maiden and Cliff Burton of Metallica. Guitar Player Magazing has placed Lee in the Bass Hall of Fame and he has been the winner six times of the "Best Bass Player Award" just to name a few of Geddy Lee's awards. Lee is able to perform at this extremely high level on the bass while at the same time singing lead vocals as well as playing the keyboard and manipulate foot pedals. Lee is an amazing talent.
Alex Lifeson plays lead guitar and supplies vocals as well. Guitar Player Magazine chose him as the Best Rock Guitarist in 1984 and 2008 and he was runner up for that award in 1982, 1983, 1985 and 1986.
Neil Peart is considered by many to be the best drummer in rock. He has received numerous awards from a wide variety of sources over his more than 30 years as the drummer for Rush. Modern Drummer magazine has chosen him as Best Rock Drummer nine times. He was revolutionary in adding special instruments like the cowbell and glockenspiel to his drum kit. Many others have followed his lead in doing so.
As for sales, Rush stands high among any list of music with twenty-four Gold Records and fourteen Platinum records. Only four other bands have more consecutive gold albums; the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Kiss (who should also be inducted) and Aerosmith. Rush has had an album certified gold in each of four decades. Rush has had thirteen studio albums peak in the top 20 of Billboard's charts and twenty-seven on the charts overall. Rush was inducted into the Canadian Hall of Fame 1994, has won several Juno awards over the years and been nominated for several Grammy awards as well. Each of its members has been made Officers of the Order of Canada, the first musicians so honored. Rush is scheduled to be enshrined in the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2009.
Thanks to its longevity, and quality of music, Rush deserves to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This honor is way overdue.

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