[The beat goes on -- thanks to these guys]

Neil Peart and Rush are mentioned in this article from the Vancover Sun on drummers who made a significant impact on their respective bands. Here's what they have to say:

... To fully understand his value in Rush, one needs only to listen to the Toronto band's pre-Peart output, a plodding self-titled debut from 1974. After he replaced John Rutsey that same year, Peart immediately assumed the role of primary lyricist, which, in addition to his legendary drumming skills, helped make Rush a famous prog-rock power trio. ...