Original Rush Drummer Dies
Wednesday May 14, 2008
The current members of Rush (Alex Lifeson, Neil Peart, Geddy Lee) have been together for so long it's easy to forget that it is not the original lineup.
In the beginning (1968) John Rutsey was Rush's drummer, appearing on the band's first single and album. He left the band shortly after the debut album was released in 1974, because he was diabetic and was concerned about the affect of long tours on his health. In fact, when he left Rush, he left the music business altogether.
Rutsey died in his sleep on Sunday (May 11) apparently of a heart attack that was the result of his diabetes. He was 55.
Comments
Very sad, after all, without his involvement we’d not have had any Rush!The very original line up only included Alex Lifeson of today’s band.
Apparently he quit the band due to some health issues (Diabetes) & amid the usual reference to “creative differences.”
Whatever was the case, he was there from the start for 6 years …. More than many new bands of today that breakthrough tend to last.
RIP John, you more than played your part Sir!
Alun
R.I.P. John.
to an excellent drummer who paved the
way for greater things… You will be
missed John!!!
Rutsey was the “cool” one. Too bad.