John Rutsey(Original Rush Drummer dead at 55

[macca]

John Rutsey, Dead At 55
Rush's founding drummer John Rutsey passed away on May 11, 2008. Apparently John passed away peacefully in his sleep from an apparent heart attack.
"John Rutsey, a founding member of Toronto rock band Rush, passed away this weekend according to Rush management company Anthem Entertainment. He was 55. Rutsey was famous for playing on Rush’s 1974 debut album...before deciding to leave the group due to health concerns. Rutsey suffered from diabetes and was unable to go on extended tours with the group. Rutsey was replaced by drummer Neil Peart, which marked a turning point in the band’s sound towards progressive rock. Rush formed in 1968 in Toronto and was originally composed of guitarist Alex Lifeson, bassist Jeff Jones (who shortly thereafter was replaced by Geddy Lee) and Rutsey...." - Toronto's Q107 Rock Report

[crizman]

What a shame! I never knew about his health problems. Man, life is just too short!

[Pacdaddy]

Did Pete Best go to the Funeral?

[rushtrader]

Pete's in NYC taping some Radio shows this evening.

Yes I know it was a joke, but I couldn't help it since I just happen to know where he is :)

RT

[banterman]

What sort of radio shows is Pete taping?

Regarding Rutsey, I'm pretty surprised that they haven't put anything up on the Rush website about it. I know they like to pretend that Neil was always in the band, but can't they acknowledge this guy who helped get them started at all? I wonder if they've paid any tribute to him at the shows.

My band will play a song from the first Rush album out of tribute to Rutsey at our show on June 7th @ Mollly Bloom's in Amityville. Anyone in bands, give a tip of the hat to this guy who was in Rush for like 6 years, helping them get off their feet!

[Zephead]

show on June 7th @ Mollly Bloom's in Amityville. [/QUOTE]

Hey Banterman what kind of music does your band play? I live in Amityville. Might be another reason to go out.

[banterman]

My band plays all kinds of good rock music. You can hear our originals at http://dansheehan.net, thanks for asking! Zebrafreak from this board is the drummer.

[shoeluvr]

Did Pete Best go to the Funeral?

not to get off the subject, but pacdaddy i love your avitar..did u take that pic?

[SHOELUVRSIS]

not to get off the subject, but pacdaddy i love your avitar..did u take that pic?

i cant even read that! who are you wonderwoman?

[zebrarette]

DAMN....I don't think Jeff knows about this yet. I'm going to pass it on. Thanks for the heads up Macca...hope all is well over there.