Neil Peart Passed Away!

The greatest drummer in rock history. Neil Peart passed away in California.

Rush's legendary drummer and rock icon Neil Peart has died at the age of 67.

The lead lyricist of Rush, died in Santa Monica on January 7th after battling stage IV brain cancer.

"It is with great sadness we report that Neil Peart passed away on Jan. 7, 2020, in Santa Monica, California," said his family in a presser. "The world renowned drummer and lyricists for Rush died of brain cancer that he suffered from for three and a half years."

Peart, known for his technical proficiency, was inducted into the Modern Drummer Hall of Fame in 1983.

Rush was later inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1994 and joined the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2013.

Peart's bandmates, bassist Geddy Lee and guitarist Alex Lifeson shared their thoughts on Peart.

"Neil was a friend, soul brother and bandmate over 45 years. He fought [a battle and stood] incredibly brave" during his battle with glioblastoma.

"We ask that friends, fans and media alike understandably respect the family's need for privacy and peace at this extremely painful and difficult time," said Rush in a statement. "Those wishing to express their condolences can choose a cancer research group or charity of their choice and make a donation in Neil Peart's name. Rest in peace, brother, the group said in a tweet.

Rush was the progressive rock.

Neil Peart was born in 1952 in Hamilton, Ontario. He was born Cornelius Ellword Peart. He grew up in Port Dalhouse (known as St. Catharines). He was began his music with regional bands and wanted to be a full-time drummer. He had a brief stint in England as a drummer. He returned to Canada with disappointment.

He would find his calling with Rush. The group was formed in 1968 in Toronto. He would join Rush in 1974 and became a breakout star within the group.

Brothers for life. Rush bandmates Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson mourn the loss of Neil Peart.

He would marry his first wife, Jacqueline Taylor. They had a daughter, Selena. She was killed in a tragic accident on Highway 401 near Toronto. Jacqueline would later pass away from cancer. He said Jacqueline died of a "broken heart" knowing their daughter died.

Neil would remarry. He was married to American photographer Carrie Nuttall. They have a 10 year old daughter Olivia.

Neil obtained his U.S. citizenship in 2013.

After developing crippling tendinitis and shoulder problems, Peart would announce he would retire from Rush and focus on his family. The band wished him well on his journey.

Late thread: Rush: Tom Sawyer and Spirit of Radio.