Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson of Rush made a rare appearance together on Thursday, covering Gordon Lightfoot’s “The Way I Feel” at a tribute concert in Toronto for the late singer-songwriter. The event took place at Massey Hall, a venue significant to Rush as they recorded their *All the World’s a Stage* live album there in 1976.
Billed as “L+L,” Lee and Lifeson performed with Canadian country band Blue Rodeo. After the show, Lee expressed his gratitude on social media, thanking Blue Rodeo for sharing their stage and talents. He described the evening as an honor, filled with compelling performances and warm remembrances.
Speaking to Variety, Lee emphasized the importance of paying tribute to Lightfoot. He and Lifeson chose “The Way I Feel” for its loose structure, which suited their style better than some of Lightfoot’s more popular songs.
Since the death of Rush drummer Neil Peart in 2020, Lee and Lifeson have only performed together a few times. They played “Closer to the Heart” at a South Park anniversary show in 2022 and did a three-song set with drummers like Dave Grohl and Chad Smith at the Taylor Hawkins tribute concerts. Despite occasional appearances, Lifeson has been hesitant about performing Rush songs live again due to both physical and emotional reasons.
In a interview, Lee mentioned that he and Lifeson owe it to each other to try playing together seriously and see what happens, though he cautioned fans not to expect a Rush reunion. There’s always hope, but nothing is certain.