First Listen – RUSH 50

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First Listen - Rush 50: Celebrating Five Decades of Fearless Music

“What makes Rush unique is fearlessness. It’s the quality of writing a song and not caring about what’s popular, what’s not. …What kind of band is Rush? It’s Rush.”

– Gene Simmons in Beyond the Lighted Stage

A Defining Musical Discovery

Rush is one of those rare bands that fans often remember discovering with vivid clarity. For many, that moment is a defining musical experience—one that opens the door to a whole new world of intricate compositions, thought-provoking lyrics, and unparalleled musicianship.

For me, that moment came in the year 2000 when I stumbled upon a copy of A Farewell to Kings. I was 13, in the midst of a significant shift in my musical tastes, moving away from the typical teenage radio hits and exploring heavier, more experimental sounds. Rush delivered something that was more than just music—it was storytelling, it was art, it was an experience.

The Unmatched Sound of Rush

Rush has always refused to be boxed into any single category. They seamlessly blend rock, progressive elements, jazz influences, and even science-fiction themes into their music. Their songwriting is innovative, their technical prowess is unmatched, and their lyrics—often penned by the late Neil Peart—explore themes of philosophy, dystopian futures, and deeply personal introspection.

Their ability to connect with audiences is unlike any other band. From the soaring synthesizers of the ‘80s to the intricate guitar work of the ‘70s and the hard-hitting anthems of the ‘90s, Rush has left an indelible mark on music history, inspiring generations of musicians and fans.

A Live Experience Like No Other

For those lucky enough to have seen Rush live, their performances are legendary. I had the privilege of attending their Halifax show in 2013, and to this day, it remains one of the best concert experiences I’ve ever had. Watching three musicians create an orchestra-sized sound was nothing short of mesmerizing. Their chemistry, honed over decades, was undeniable, and the energy they brought to the stage was as electrifying as ever.

Rush 50: A Career-Spanning Celebration

Now, fans old and new can celebrate Rush’s extraordinary legacy with Rush 50, an impressive and fitting tribute to a band that has influenced countless musicians and captivated millions.

This 50-song anthology spans their entire career, featuring beloved classics like:

“Tom Sawyer”
“La Villa Strangiato”
“YYZ”

But the real treasure lies in the rare and unreleased material. Fans will finally have physical releases of:

“Not Fade Away”
“You Can’t Fight It”
A vault edition of “Working Man”

Additionally, Rush 50 includes previously unreleased live recordings from 1974, capturing Rush in their early days while opening for Uriah Heep and Manfred Mann’s Earth Band. These recordings offer an intimate glimpse into the band’s formative years, showcasing the raw energy and talent that would propel them to legendary status.

Deluxe Editions for Collectors

For die-hard fans and collectors, Rush 50 offers three stunning deluxe editions:

4CD and 7LP Deluxe Editions

104-page hardcover book
Rare photography and original illustrations
Liner notes from rock journalists Philip Wilding and David Fricke

Backstage Exclusive Super Deluxe Edition

Everything in the deluxe editions
The Fullness Of Time – an exclusive graphic novel chronicling Rush’s legendary career
Lithographs representing the band’s entire discography

For those who simply want to immerse themselves in the music, Rush 50 will also be available in digital and standard 4-disc editions, ensuring that fans can celebrate Rush’s incredible career in whatever format they prefer.

Rush’s Legacy Lives On

Whether you’re a lifelong Rush enthusiast or someone just beginning to explore their vast catalog, Rush 50 serves as both an introduction and a celebration of a band that has consistently pushed musical boundaries for half a century.

With their fearless innovation, unparalleled musicianship, and unwavering dedication to their craft, Rush has left an irreplaceable mark on the world of music. And with Rush 50, that legacy continues to inspire, captivate, and rock on.

Available on March 21, 2025

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