The 3 Songs That Defined Neil Peart’s Career With Rush

Love or hate ’em, Rush’s influence in the music industry is undeniable. The progressive rock giants certainly helped the genre reach a wide demographic, striking the perfect balance between sophistication and accessibility. Of course, responsibility was shared between each of the power trio’s individual talents, but it was Neil Peart’s lyricism and timekeeping that tied the whole act together. Here are some monumental songs from the band’s career that exemplify Peart’s importance in the band.

“By-Tor and The Snow Dog” – Fly By Night (1975)

Rush’s sophomore album, Fly By Night, would become the foundation of their future material in the next few years. “By-Tor and The Snow Dog” was a great representation of the album, not to mention Peart’s drumming skill. He is tight and loose at the same time, meandering through fills and going back to the main run without missing a beat.

“Xanadu” – A Farewell to Kings (1977)

There was no stopping Peart’s quest to add more and more implements to his drum kit, which was utilized to the best of his abilities on 1977’s “Xanadu”. He was able to incorporate the sounds of nature on the song thanks to chimes, bells, woodblocks, and more, adding to the grounded yet ethereal feel of the song. His songwriting was also idiosyncratic, serving the song’s purpose to enchant the listener.

“La Villa Strangiato” – Hemispheres (1978)

When Neil Peart isn’t occupied with writing lyrics for Rush, he’s doubling down on the arrangement of the song and how he will be aprpoaching it. “La Villa Strangiato” was a challenge for the band due to its inherent complexity, but Peart does his magic with a seamless stream of rhythm that hits the spot from start to finish.