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The Professor on the Drum Kit

Neil Peart was born on September 12, 1952 in Canada. He began drumming at age 13. He dropped out of high school and moved to London, however, he soon decided he disliked the music scene there and in 1974 moved back to Canada. He then replaced John Rutsey as the drummer for Rush, completing the trio. And that is how the band has remained for the rest of their music career. He brought a new edge to the band in his playing and especially in his lyrics. Neil writes not only lyrics but also has written 2 books, Radiance Over the Rockies and The Masked Rider. Neil has also produced Burning for Buddy: A Tribute to the Music of Buddy Rich, Vol.1 and 2. Neil's awards include Modern Drummer's "Best Rock Drummer" for 9 years straight ('80 - '88), "Best Multipercussionist" for 4 straight years ('83 - '86), and is in MD's Hall of Fame. Neil along with Rush has 8 Juno awards, 2 Grammy nominations, and the Order of Canada. On a sad note, Neil has recently lost his wife to cancer, six months before that his daughter in a tragic automobile accident. Although this is a tough time for Neil and his family, I'm sure that all the love ALL Rush fans have shown will help him through this. We love you, Neil.