Since the 1970s, rock music has continued to dominate the global music scene. Among the many bands that have risen to prominence during this time is Rush, a Canadian progressive rock trio that has produced some of the most iconic songs in rock history.
Formed in 1968, Rush consists of Geddy Lee (vocals, bass, keyboards), Alex Lifeson (guitars), and the late Neil Peart (drums, percussion). Rush is known for their intricate musicianship, epic storytelling, and philosophical themes.
They have released over 20 albums, sold over 40 million copies worldwide, and have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. In this article, we will explore the top 10 best Rush songs of all time, which embody their innovative sound and philosophical musings.
Top 10 Best Rush Songs of All Time
1. “Tom Sawyer” – Released in 1981, “Tom Sawyer” is arguably Rush’s most recognizable song.
The song features layers of guitar riffs, bass lines, and dynamic vocals that blend together seamlessly. The lyrics are inspired by Mark Twain’s novel, “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer,” and explore the theme of individualism.
2. “The Spirit of Radio” – “The Spirit of Radio” is a classic Rush song that was released in 1980.
The song features a catchy guitar riff, intricate drumming, and lyrics that pay tribute to the power of radio and music. 3.
“Closer to the Heart” – “Closer to the Heart” was released in 1977 and has since become one of Rush’s most beloved songs. The song’s lyrics focus on emphasizing kindness, love, and the goodness of life.
4. “Limelight” – Released in 1981, “Limelight” showcases Rush’s exceptional musicianship.
The song features thoughtful lyrics that delve into the pressures of fame and being in the public eye. 5.
“Red Barchetta” – “Red Barchetta” is another classic Rush song that was released in 1981. The song is a science-fiction story about a man who takes his father’s sports car for a joyride in a dystopian future.
6. “Working Man” – “Working Man” was Rush’s debut single, released in 1974.
The song’s lyrics are relatable to many blue-collar workers and focus on the struggles of working hard to make ends meet. 7.
“YYZ” – “YYZ” is an instrumental song that was released in 1981. The song’s title refers to the airport code for Toronto Pearson International Airport, and the song pays tribute to the band’s hometown.
8. “2112” – “2112” is a 20-minute-long progressive rock masterpiece that was released in 1976.
The song is a musical journey that features elements of classical music and rock music, weaving together a story of a dystopian future in which individualism is outlawed. 9.
“Subdivisions” – “Subdivisions” is a reflective song that was released in 1982, exploring the isolation and alienation that many young people experienced growing up in suburbia. 10.
“The Trees” – Released in 1978, “The Trees” is a fable about trees, featuring lyrics inspired by Ayn Rand’s book “The Fountainhead.” The song emphasizes the need for liberty and independence for a society to thrive. “Freewill”
Philosophical Themes
“Freewill” is one of Rush’s most famous songs, featuring lyrics that delve into the question of free will. The song asks whether we have the ability to make our own choices or whether everything is predetermined.
While the song is rooted in philosophical musings, it also provides a call to action to take control of our lives and make the most of our lives while we still can.
Craftsmanship and Musicianship
At its core, “Freewill” is a musical journey that showcases Rush’s exceptional musicianship. Geddy Lee’s vocals are the perfect combination of urgency and emotion, while Alex Lifeson’s guitar riffs provide an unforgettable melody.
The band’s drumming and percussion are complex and skillfully executed, enhancing the song’s dynamic and energetic feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Rush is a legendary progressive rock band that has produced some of the most iconic songs in rock history. Their music infuses philosophical themes with exceptional musicianship, creating timeless works of art.
“Freewill,” in particular, is a tremendous example of their musical craftsmanship and thoughtful lyrics. “Subdivisions”
Rush’s “Subdivisions” is a song that explores themes of societal conformity and social pressure.
Released in 1982, the song speaks to the experiences of many young people who grew up feeling like they didn’t fit into mainstream society. The lyrics paint a picture of life in the suburbs, where homogeneity and conformity are highly valued while individualism and creativity are often suppressed.
The opening lines of the song set the tone for the rest of the lyrics: “Sprawling on the fringes of the city / In geometric order, an insulated border / In between the bright lights and the far unlit unknown”. This image of a suburban landscape divided into neat, geometric subdivisions represents the rigid social structures that many people may feel trapped within.
The verses in “Subdivisions” go on to describe the everyday experiences of suburban life, including high school and teenage social hierarchies. The lyrics lament the pressure to fit in and conform, saying “Conform or be cast out!” The chorus echoes these sentiments, pleading for a way to escape the confines of these societal pressures.
One of the standout features of “Subdivisions” is Alex Lifeson’s guitar work. His opening riff sets the tone for the song, with a repeating melody that captures both the numbing monotony of suburban life and the subtle rebellion of individuality.
The guitar solo in the middle of the song is also exceptional, showcasing Lifeson’s technical ability and emotional depth. Overall, “Subdivisions” offers a poignant critique of the conformity and social pressures that many young people experience growing up.
The song has remained relevant over the years and speaks to the experiences of anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. “Time Stand Still”
“Time Stand Still” is a song that transcends time with its dreamlike and mythical qualities.
Released in 1987, the song speaks to the desire to live in a world that is free from the constraints of time and place. The song’s opening lines capture this sentiment perfectly: “I turn my back to the wind / To catch my breath before I start off again / Driven on without a moment to spend / To pass an evening with a drink and a friend.” These lines suggest a desire to escape the pressures of everyday life and experience the world without the burden of time.
The chorus of “Time Stand Still” offers a dreamlike vision of this world: “Freeze this moment a little bit longer / Make each sensation a little bit stronger / Experience slips away / The innocence slips away.” The song speaks to the desire to hold onto the fleeting moments of joy and beauty that we experience in life. One of the most powerful aspects of “Time Stand Still” is its emotional depth.
The song’s lyrics and melody capture the poignancy of life’s transience and our desire to hold onto the things that matter most. The lyrics also offer some solace, suggesting that even as time passes, the memories and experiences we cherish will always remain.
Overall, “Time Stand Still” is a song that speaks to the human desire to transcend time and experience the world in its fullness. The song’s dreamlike and mythical quality, combined with its emotional depth, make it an enduring classic that continues to resonate with listeners today.
“Closer to the Heart”
Rush’s “Closer to the Heart” is a song that invites the listener on an introspective journey through the complexities of our world and the values that underpin it. Released in 1977, “Closer to the Heart” is a song that continues to resonate with audiences because it speaks truth to power with wit, intelligence, and heart.
At its core, “Closer to the Heart” is a song about societal values and the way we choose to live our lives. The opening lines of the song, “And the men who hold high places / Must be the ones who start / To mold a new reality / Closer to the heart”, set the tone for the rest of the lyrics.
The song suggests that it is up to individuals to make a difference in their own lives and in society as a whole. The chorus of “Closer to the Heart” goes on to encourage individualism and creativity, urging the listener to “Be the captain of your soul / Don’t be a number / Don’t be a number”.
These lyrics are a call to arms against societal pressures to conform and fit in, and instead to be true to yourself and your own values. One of the standout features of “Closer to the Heart” is the song’s composition and instrumental proficiency.
The song features intricate guitar work from Alex Lifeson and thoughtful and emotive vocals from Geddy Lee. The rhythm section of Neil Peart and Geddy Lee provides a driving beat that supports the song’s message and encourages the listener to take action.
Overall, “Closer to the Heart” is a song that speaks to the individual’s responsibility to shape their own lives and the world around them. The song’s composition and musicianship are a testament to the talent and dedication of Rush, and the song itself remains timeless and relevant today.
“Red Barchetta”
“Red Barchetta” is a song that showcases Rush’s storytelling abilities and dystopian imagination. Released in 1981, the song imagines a future world where individualism and love of freedom are outlawed, and machines have taken over every aspect of society.
The song tells the story of a man who takes his uncle’s red barchetta sports car out for a joyride in this dystopian future. The lyrics are vivid and evocative, painting a picture of a world where nature and beauty have been replaced by monolithic machines and a regimented society.
One of the standout features of “Red Barchetta” is its sonic experience. The song’s opening riff sets the tone for the rest of the song, featuring a driving, syncopated beat that supports the story’s sense of urgency.
The song’s guitar work is also exceptional, with Alex Lifeson’s solos adding a sense of danger and excitement to the story. Despite its imaginative dystopian setting, “Red Barchetta” remains highly accessible to listeners.
The story is clear and easy to follow, and the song’s message about the importance of individualism and freedom is timeless and resonant. Overall, “Red Barchetta” is a song that showcases Rush’s storytelling abilities and sonic prowess.
The song paints a vivid picture of a dystopian world, while the guitar and rhythm sections provide a driving beat that supports the story’s sense of urgency. Despite its tragic setting, the song’s message about the importance of individualism and freedom is universal and accessible.
“The Spirit of Radio”
Rush’s “The Spirit of Radio” is a song that celebrates the cultural influence and power of radio. Released in 1980, “The Spirit of Radio” speaks to the transformative nature of music and the way that it can bring people together, inspire change, and shape society.
The song’s opening lines, “Begin the day with a friendly voice / A companion unobtrusive / Plays the song that’s so elusive / And the magic music makes your morning mood”, capture the essence of the song’s inspiration. “The Spirit of Radio” celebrates the way that radio can be a beacon of hope for those who feel marginalized, a source of comfort for those who feel alone, and a force for change for those who seek it.
The chorus of “The Spirit of Radio” calls for a revolution in the way that we consume music and interact with media. The song urges us to “glitter in the dark / Or the edges of the nitty-gritty / That’s where the music meets the air”, suggesting that the true magic of music is found in the fringes and the margins, where new and innovative ideas can flourish.
One of the standout features of “The Spirit of Radio” is the song’s energizing guitar riffs and soaring vocals. The song’s lyrics are brought to life by Geddy Lee’s emotive and dynamic vocals, which are backed up by Alex Lifeson’s fiery guitar work.
The song’s rhythm section also stands out, with Neil Peart’s drumming providing a driving beat that propels the song forward. Overall, “The Spirit of Radio” is a song that celebrates the power of music and the way that it can bring people together, inspire change, and transform society.
The song’s guitar and vocal work are a testament to the talent and energy of Rush, and the song’s message remains relevant and inspiring today. “Tom Sawyer”
Rush’s “Tom Sawyer” is a song that has become an iconic representation of the band’s sound and style.
Released in 1981, “Tom Sawyer” features a memorable tune that has become one of the most recognizable in rock history. The song’s inspiration comes from Mark Twain’s novel, “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer,” and the song’s lyrics echo the novel’s themes of individualism and youthful rebellion.
The opening lines of the song, “A modern-day warrior / Mean, mean stride / Today’s Tom Sawyer / Mean, mean pride”, suggest that the world of the song’s narrator is one characterized by danger and risk. One of the standout features of “Tom Sawyer” is the song’s layered instrumentation.
The song’s opening riff sets the stage for the rest of the song, featuring a dynamic guitar melody that blends seamlessly with the song’s rhythm section. The interplay between Geddy Lee’s vocals and Alex Lifeson’s guitar work is also exceptional, creating a dynamic sound that is both powerful and memorable.
Overall, “Tom Sawyer” is a song that has become an integral part of Rush’s legacy. The song’s layered instrumentation, memorable tune, and Mark Twain inspiration have become part of the fabric of rock history.
The song remains a testament to the band’s skill and creativity, and its message of youthful rebellion and individualism continues to inspire listeners today. “Limelight”
Rush’s “Limelight” is a song that captures the timeless nature of music and the introspective journey of the individual artist.
Released in 1981, the song speaks to the pressures of fame and the desire for privacy, as well as the importance of holding on to one’s own identity and integrity. At its core, “Limelight” is a song about the tension between the artist and the audience.
The opening lines, “Living on a lighted stage / Approaches the unreal / For those who think and feel / In touch with some reality beyond the gilded cage,” suggest that the world of fame can be both thrilling and isolating. The chorus of “Limelight” goes on to lament the loss of privacy and the pressure to conform to audience expectations.
The song urges the listener to hold on to their own identity and integrity, saying “All the world’s indeed a stage / And we are merely players / Performers and portrayers / Each another’s audience / Outside the gilded cage”. One of the standout features of “Limelight” is the song’s poignant message and Neil Peart’s drumming patterns.
