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Thursday, February 11, 2010

Rush expected to perform at Winter Olympics opening ceremony

Posted at 9:15AM | comments (119)

Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics [McLachlan, Bryan Adams, Rush among artists expected at opening ceremonies]

UPDATE - 2/13@12:32AM: Well, obviously no Rush tonight. Notice how the show was themed around the different provinces of Canada moving from east to west? Also notice how Ontario and the Great Lakes region were skipped over? What I'm now hearing is that this portion of the show was scrubbed due to the nature of today's tragic events. Apparently it had a full rock and roll metropolitan vibe to it and was cut for sensitivity. The word is now that Rush may tentatively play at the closing ceremony. Sorry everybody - I'm as pissed off as you are.

UPDATE - 2/12@6:58PM: BBC America showed Alex and Geddy at BC Place not long ago and said We have been informed Rush are to perform sometime tonight with their 70s classic hit Closer To The Heart (thanks Sean). Not sure if that means they aren't going to play YYZ or if they'll play both songs.

UPDATE - 2/12@11:52AM: I also just learned that they may be playing Closer to the Heart tonight as well. :)

A week ago rumors started flying around that Rush would be performing at the 2010 Winter Olympics opening ceremony in Vancouver tomorrow. Dress rehearsals have been taking place all this week and according to this release from the Canadian Press, Rush is indeed expected to perform:

In an age where news travels as fast as a sled hurtling down a skeleton track, the sustained secrecy surrounding Friday's opening ceremonies at the Vancouver Games is an Olympic feat in of itself.

Only in the past few days have small amounts of information dribbled out as Twitter-happy fans have leaked rehearsal information.

Recent reports indicate that Bryan Adams and Sarah McLachlan have been spotted rehearsing for the show.

Meanwhile, Rush and 16-year-old Montreal jazz singer Nikki Yanofsky also seem to be involved. A publicist for the veteran Toronto rock trio and Yanofsky herself both responded to questions from The Canadian Press with no-comments, citing non-disclosure agreements.

"NDA, non-disclosure, we're not allowed to say anything," Yanofsky said when asked if she would perform. ...

I think this all but confirms it. My sources inform me that they'll be playing a version of YYZ as part of a larger performance showcasing Canadian music. The opening ceremony will air on NBC beginning at 7:30PM EST tomorrow evening. Thanks to Christopher F for the heads up.

COMMENTS

#1 - Posted 2/11/10 @9:19AM by subdivincent [contact]

ONE!

#2 - Posted 2/11/10 @9:24AM by subdivincent [contact]

while i'm on a roll...TWO!

#3 - Posted 2/11/10 @9:28AM by Bridget33

I'm looking forward to watching it!

#4 - Posted 2/11/10 @9:32AM by PetieLee [contact]

Rush to perform at the Winter Olympics? Geddy, being as hot as he is, probably is the reason there isn't much snow up in Canada this season for the Games! Performing as part of the opening ceremonies, he will inevitably melt the remainder of the snow! *tee hee hee*. Go Geddy!!!

Love da Geddy! Miss da Geddy - but not for very long!!!

#5 - Posted 2/11/10 @9:33AM by chutch15 [contact]

As you as you cite a NDA, you have admitted involvement. Therefore, they're in! Should be very cool.

BTW, who cares if you post 1st?

#6 - Posted 2/11/10 @9:44AM by subdivincent [contact]

i care. and that's all that matters.

#7 - Posted 2/11/10 @9:48AM by Lerxstdog [contact]

Lit up with anticipation...BRING IT, Rush!

#8 - Posted 2/11/10 @9:53AM by I love Rush [contact]

#4
Petie, I am really laughing my head off peeing in my pants!
Geddy should go to the east coast to melt all that snow

I'm in the Chicago area, I have a feeling I'll hear your screaming when I'm watching the Olympics

#9 - Posted 2/11/10 @10:10AM by 1-2-bucklemyshoe [contact]

And after the Olympics, they will perform at half time for the next superbowl.

Check out this blog with a proposal for the 5 next half time SB performers: #1 is Led Zeppelin and #2 is Rush

link

I know its probably not likely, but what might be more likely is some kind of joint performance: say Rush and the Foo Fighters playing a Rush medley.

#10 - Posted 2/11/10 @10:22AM by Michael Senyo [contact]

Good!
ms in la

#11 - Posted 2/11/10 @10:30AM by skl183

Is Celine Dion performing too?

I can just see YYZ coming out one of her songs.

Who knows how this song will be butchered once they get on stage?

At least it brings the band back into the greater "Limelight."

Maybe Obama will admit he's been a closet Rush fan now..And I can see Tony Kornheiser and Michael Wilbon doing a bit Pardon the Interruption bit on Rush songs, a David Letterman Top 10 based on Rush song-isms is in the offing, a performance on the Tonight Show Mark 2 with Jay Leno, a long over due appearance as their animated selves on the Simpsons series finale, an appearance on American Idol now hosted by Howard Stern, an guest cameo appearance on CSI: Crime Scene Investigation featuring a music video based on the new Itunes single, and the crown jewel a performance of the new single at Game 4 of the 2010 Stanley Cup Finals.

#12 - Posted 2/11/10 @10:32AM by TheHonestMan [contact]

#6 - Hahaha! Well put.

#13 - Posted 2/11/10 @10:36AM by Kelly D [contact]

This better be on YouTube as soon as it's finished. I have a social obligation that prevents me from being glued to my TV!

#14 - Posted 2/11/10 @10:38AM by TheHonestMan [contact]

#9 - Thanks for the link! The description of the band and reasons for having RUSH perform at the SB were very well put. That guy obviously knows his music.

#11 - Huh? I got a little lost while reading your post...It seems like you might kind of be mocking this whole thing, but I think it will be very cool for the boys to get some wide spread coverage like this. Being from Canada, they certainly deserve it. We'll just have to wait and see what happens. Knowing RUSH, it will be a great performance!

#15 - Posted 2/11/10 @10:38AM by hermy [contact]

Speaking of YYZ; Happy 29th Birthday to Moving Pictures!

The finest 40 minutes one can have of legal entertainment!!

Wonder if DW made another new kit for Neil? They could squeeze in all the flags on the drums. Lord knows Neil has enough real estate on those things for a geographical mosaic.

#16 - Posted 2/11/10 @10:50AM by I love Rush [contact]

#11, great point, You'd think Celine Dion would be performing.

#15 it would be quite neat if Neil used the drum kit from the Hockey gig---

If Alex was asked to light the olympic Torch, he is so hot he wouldn't need a match----he'd just stand near it and it would ignite---don't you agree Kat?

(Petie, insert "Geddy" instead of "Alex")

#17 - Posted 2/11/10 @10:58AM by hermy [contact]

...as sweet as YYZ is, it would be nice to hear Ged fire up the pipes. I think Mission would have gone over well.

Hold your fire-
Keep it burning bright
Hold the flame 'til the dream ignites-
A spirit with a vision is a dream with a mission

What better way to open the Olympics...........

#18 - Posted 2/11/10 @11:22AM by RUSHGIRL [contact]

Yeah Canada! Can't wait to see them perform!!

#19 - Posted 2/11/10 @11:39AM by theanalogkid [contact]

Any chance to see the boys makes it a good day! Unfortunately, you have slog through all the pomp and circumstance to get to the good stuff.

#20 - Posted 2/11/10 @12:00PM by chutch15 [contact]

#6 - If you didn't want others to care, you wouldn't announce it... twice.

I wonder if Rush will play all of "YYZ.". Sometimes in these large scale productions, acts are forced to truncate. Wasn't there talk that they would be part of a Canadian music montage? The production better not disappoint because we know their performance won't. I'm looking forward to Sarah McLachlan too.

#21 - Posted 2/11/10 @12:00PM by TMMB [contact]

#17 That would be a great song choice.

#19 That's why I'll DVR it. Just skip to the good stuff.

#22 - Posted 2/11/10 @12:20PM by mommy_of_zuzu [contact]

Ow!

15 - Hermy - yeah really, Neil's pretty good at keeping the good folks at DW employed at making custom kits these days, why stop now? heehee

#23 - Posted 2/11/10 @12:54PM by tralkar

woohoo, the day is here hope Rush is still doing it....

#24 - Posted 2/11/10 @12:55PM by tralkar

well Tomorrow hehe =P

#25 - Posted 2/11/10 @1:14PM by philw [contact]

Can I ask a possibly stupid question? Why would the organizers NOT want people to know who's playing? Is there some value in keeping this a secret? Last time I checked, high ratings were a *good* thing.

#26 - Posted 2/11/10 @1:24PM by Kelly D [contact]

Rumors and surprises are powerful things :P

It's like not checking a setlist before a concert, I suspect- people enjoy being pleasantly astonished. . .

Eh? That's all I can think of. . .

#27 - Posted 2/11/10 @1:31PM by Ricbass4003 [contact]

I will stream this online. I don't have cable and would like to watch it but the opening ceremonies are 3 hrs though. I don't think I can watch that long. I trust I will be able to find it here :-) after the fact. Thanks Ed for the update.

Petie: Yep, I agree, Geddy is the cause of the heating up of the Great White North. :-) That is why they have to tour in the summer months.

#28 - Posted 2/11/10 @1:35PM by GreeneWolfe [contact]

This is the BEST olympics EVER!! And it hasn't even started!!! GO NEIL!! WIN THE GOLD FOR CROSS COUNTRY SKIING!!

#29 - Posted 2/11/10 @1:36PM by GreeneWolfe [contact]

#25....how true!

#30 - Posted 2/11/10 @1:37PM by Arleen2112 [contact]

O CANADA!

Proud to be Canadian

#31 - Posted 2/11/10 @1:37PM by GreeneWolfe [contact]

#17....great idea!!

#32 - Posted 2/11/10 @1:41PM by Mar [contact]

Fabulous news! This has got to be one of the best weeks ever with the SuperBowl win and all...kinda exciting. Keep it coming *g*

#13 -- the opening ceremonies are live at 730pmET but there's a network-wide rerun at 0135amET(Saturday-proper but really later the same night). I recommend high-def full-sound over youtube. Just sayin'

#33 - Posted 2/11/10 @1:48PM by katskahnne [contact]

#16 - Amen and hallelujah! :-D

#15 - Who knows, maybe he'll have a special kit just for the Olympics! I mean it's a pretty special gig. The Who got millions of viewers for Super Bowl halftime. For the Olympic opening ceremonies? NBC's been saying it'll be BILLIONS. With a "B". I'm just trying to guess whether he'll go with a Canadian motif, something more international, or the classic rings...pfft, TVGC, ET and E! can keep their award show red carpets. I'm having fun conjecturing about a drum kit. So there...and while I'm at it...for all three of the boys...hockey jerseys? ;-) (I know, I know, but the speedskating unis might not have fit in the wardrobe director's plans...;-))

Oh...and I thought the article blurb in the box looked a little familiar... ;-)

#34 - Posted 2/11/10 @2:09PM by Lynn-2112 [contact]

#17 I agree. I always thought of the Olympics with Mission.
#33 Billions and Billions!

So cool!
Thanks always Ed!

#35 - Posted 2/11/10 @2:44PM by How f---ing cool is Geddy Lee. [contact]

#33 - Kat

"Oh...and I thought the article blurb in the box looked a little familiar... ;-)"

Meaning what?? You wrote it? If so, don't be shy -- take credit out in the open.

HFC

#36 - Posted 2/11/10 @3:20PM by katskahnne [contact]

Nah, that was Nick Patch (CP). I haven't done any pro writing for yyyyeeeeears. I just posted a link last night, that's all. But hey, everyone got to see it one way or another, that's all that counts! :-)

#37 - Posted 2/11/10 @3:57PM by rocinante5m [contact]

This will be really cool....opening ceremonies are very long but i usually watch a good part of it, now I will watch a lot of it....

Me thinks a tour announcement is right around the corner......last time The Boys had a surprise warm up appearance it was with the Foo Fighters right before the tour, perhaps this will fall along those lines......

#38 - Posted 2/11/10 @4:03PM by hermy [contact]

It's all indoors this year and in HD. The sound and picture should be amazing.

YYZ is only 4:42.....hopefully they won't cut it down too much for the legion of typical ADD television watchers........at least don't cut out the drum and bass solo's

#39 - Posted 2/11/10 @4:18PM by mrdriven [contact]

#7 good call Roc- that would be sweet after a performance which makes the air even thicker with anticipation!!!

#40 - Posted 2/11/10 @4:18PM by mrdriven [contact]

meant #37

#41 - Posted 2/11/10 @4:52PM by cschnebe [contact]

So psyched to have Rush on a stage for all the world. YYZ though? Surprises me that they wouldn't play TSOR or Tom Sawyer, or Limelight since they'll be living on the lighted stage.

Can't wait to watch it in HD tomorrow night!

#42 - Posted 2/11/10 @5:06PM by katskahnne [contact]

I was kinda surprised it's not "One Little Victory"!

#43 - Posted 2/11/10 @5:36PM by How f---ing cool is Geddy Lee. [contact]

Answer: YYZ is the one all the young people will know, in addition to us geezers (reason: Guitar Hero and YouTube)

HowF-ingCool

#44 - Posted 2/11/10 @5:50PM by broughttoyoubytheletterj [contact]

Heard a rumor Lerxst is gonna' chord morse code for the first date of tour 10' at beginning of why-why-zed...

#45 - Posted 2/11/10 @6:35PM by rocinante5m [contact]

I might be late on this,lol, but i just noticed the Inukshuk in the Olympic logo....interesting how similar the proportions are to the one familiar to us.....just saying

#46 - Posted 2/11/10 @6:56PM by broughttoyoubytheletterj [contact]

Cant beleive a year from now, saw Rush play YYZ live, 30 years ago...Timeless

#47 - Posted 2/11/10 @6:58PM by JohnnyTRacer [contact]

I have to get my VCR fired up and ready to record...Yeah, I said it....VCR :-) 4:30pm Pacific time has me still trying to sell insurance.....

RUSH ON!

#48 - Posted 2/11/10 @7:00PM by Ricbass4003 [contact]

#45 I thought it was funny too. At first I thought it was a 'shopped photo for us here at RIAB but then I saw that it was the official Logo. Very apropos for us rats.

#49 - Posted 2/11/10 @7:26PM by Archimer [contact]

Awesome? Circle one.

Yes / Yes

#50 - Posted 2/11/10 @7:26PM by theanalogkid [contact]

Of course they're playing YYZ. Which Rush song is more Canadian-themed than YYZ?

**That was a rhetorical question. Don't go searching through the entire Rush catalog look for Canadian references! : )

#51 - Posted 2/11/10 @7:28PM by theanalogkid [contact]

Thank you...no more calls...we have a winner!

#52 - Posted 2/11/10 @7:41PM by TommYYZ [contact]

Wow, I knew something was up when I called the place and the lady told me she was not allowed to say anything.

Also, this is a serious example of the powers of Ed.

Going night skiing tomorrow, now I have to call the place and see if they are going to have the games on in the lodge eh, beauty.

#53 - Posted 2/11/10 @7:48PM by hermy [contact]

-_-- -_-- --_ _ -_-- -_-- --_ _ -_-- -_-- --_ _ -_-- -_-- --_ _ -_-- -_-- --_ _

#50 The IATA airport identification code for the Toronto Pearson International Airport doesn't exactly conjure up thoughts of Canadian winter Olympic events.... :-)

......but it's gonna rock if they play it!

#54 - Posted 2/11/10 @7:54PM by 1-2-bucklemyshoe [contact]

Maybe they will segue from YYZ into the Hockey Theme and end with a drum solo...

#55 - Posted 2/11/10 @8:04PM by State of Grace [contact]

Right on Canada! Exciting year for Rush and their fans!

PEACE...

#56 - Posted 2/11/10 @8:12PM by hitmewithmusic [contact]

DVR is set!

#57 - Posted 2/11/10 @8:29PM by GedHed [contact]

This is so fitting. Not just because they're Canadian--because they're *the best*!!!

Can't wait!!! :D :D :D

#58 - Posted 2/11/10 @8:30PM by rushisgreat [contact]

-_-- -_-- --_ _ -_-- -_-- --_ _ -_-- -_-- --_ _ -_-- -_-- --_ _ -_-- -_-- --_ _

Looks kinda like a smiley face with Chinese eyes. Kinda fitting since the games are taking place in Hongcouver. (even Asian people call it that there)

#59 - Posted 2/11/10 @8:41PM by theanalogkid [contact]

Hermy

I like your suggestion better, but YYZ is Canada-specific.

#60 - Posted 2/11/10 @8:42PM by glortiz [contact]

Rush at the Opening Ceremonies is very fitting for us south of the 49th parallel so to speak, but to Rush, I am sure is nothing less than an honor! And YYZ is an excellent choice, we all know what it stands for! Zitro and I have a date tomorrow night in front of the big TV! The Boys are going to Rock!

I think Lakeside Park is the only other "titled" song that references Canada.

#61 - Posted 2/11/10 @8:59PM by skl183

Free publicity for the 2010 tour. It'll obviously be more hit-heavy. "What the vast majority of fans worldwide, and not 5,000 people, want"

#62 - Posted 2/11/10 @9:05PM by katskahnne [contact]

#47 - I think they're tape-delaying it (or whatever new souped up version of "tape delay" networks use for prime time nowadays) by time zone - our cable listing has it at 7:30 and I'm on the West Coast. My DVR is set!! You might want to double check your local listings...

25:21 to go...::bouncing off the walls::

#63 - Posted 2/11/10 @10:03PM by Nettie [contact]

I can't wait, but like Hermy, I wish that they would play Mission instead. That would be so cool if the Olympic torch entered the stadium while Geddy sang those opening lines.

and I get to see Lerxst. bring out the drool bucket! :)

#64 - Posted 2/11/10 @10:13PM by xathar [contact]

I can't believe they're playing Yyz. Give me a break. Why won't they play Open Secrets or Madrigal, or even Rivendell for that matter? How about a Yes cover? This is ridiculous...

#65 - Posted 2/11/10 @10:27PM by JohnnyTRacer [contact]

#62....Thanks for the heads up.....I would have recorded the last half of Oprah and a lot of news instead :-)

RUSH ON!

#66 - Posted 2/11/10 @11:24PM by marty from clayton

#64
LOL :)

#67 - Posted 2/11/10 @11:30PM by The Clansman 2112 [contact]

I found an article that might be of some concern for us true fans....will Rush "Lip-Sync" their performance tomorrow night???

link

I hope not....

#68 - Posted 2/12/10 @12:08AM by TheHonestMan [contact]

#67 - I don't see how they would lip sync an instrumental? I think it would be pretty obvious if they weren't actually playing the instruments.

I cannot wait for tomorrow night. Unfortunately, I will be at work, so I'm leaving it up to my fellow Rats to upload it to youtube or some other site. This is just the first of many RUSH performances of 2010...

#69 - Posted 2/12/10 @12:34AM by cagster [contact]

If one of the greatest live bands of all time didn't play live but a recorded version instead, would make me eat a lot of words to a lot of people.
That would suck big time.
Crossing my fingers that Rush is one of the 10 percent.
The boys have not let me down yet.

#70 - Posted 2/12/10 @2:05AM by tygr [contact]

I'm fired up for the opening cermonies now! And #47 you won't be the only one with a VCR spooling away!! (o;}

#71 - Posted 2/12/10 @6:44AM by rushbloom [contact]

#67 Boy do I wish I had'nt read that article.Makes you not want to watch.Rush pretending to be playing is an outrage.That fellow should keep his mouth shut. Its 2010 and people can't play live give me a break.

#72 - Posted 2/12/10 @7:24AM by theanalogkid [contact]

I honestly think Rush would not get involved in this if it meant lip-synching or faking in any way.

#73 - Posted 2/12/10 @7:30AM by RaceUnderPressure [contact]

not a fan of lip-synching by rush or anyone else for that matter but i suppose these big events do not want anything to go wrong and we know that even the guys have had some train wrecks...very interested to see how it all goes down if they actually are involved...dvr set.

#74 - Posted 2/12/10 @7:57AM by Archimer [contact]

#67: Here's how it's going to go down:

Coordinator guy: Hey guys, where's your backing track? I've got to put it into the computer thing.
*Geddy, Alex, and Neil all look at each other quizzically*
Coordinator guy: *Grumble*

Rush performs for real, and the land of the overworld is saved again!

(I know that rules are rules, but I can dream, right?)

#75 - Posted 2/12/10 @8:12AM by RUSHGIRL [contact]

T-9 hours until the world beholds the wonder that is RUSH!!!
Oh ya, and the game begin too! ;)

#76 - Posted 2/12/10 @8:35AM by PetieLee [contact]

Ha ha ha! I just hit 30K Rush tunes listened to since December 2007 when I started tracking my listening habits on LastFM. Yeah baby!

link

Can't wait for tonight! Excitement so thick...

Love da Geddy! Miss da Geddy - but not for very long!!!

#77 - Posted 2/12/10 @9:04AM by hitmewithmusic [contact]

While I believe the rumors are true and Rush will perform, I will be pleasently surprised if that play more than 1 minute. Don't blink or you might miss it.

#78 - Posted 2/12/10 @9:26AM by LanceTheShred [contact]

Knowing this band, like we all do, does anyone really think the boys will allow a dubbed, pre-recorded cut of YYZ??? and if they do, what percentile of the billions watching would know?? Somewhere around .00000001%

Who gives a flying f*** whether Rush plays the Brady Bunch theme, a butchered up version of anything or cruises in on the Weinermobile singing the Oscar Mayer song???? Some people really suck.........

Hermy-Mission would have been an excellent choice. That song sheds me a tear everytime I witnessed it in concert.

SEVENTY EIGHTH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I care too and that's all that matters............;)

#79 - Posted 2/12/10 @9:34AM by Rush Fan Since 1976 [contact]

I really think that having Rush involved in the opening ceremony is just outstanding casting, really... This will be a hell of a year for the band and us fans, and being involved in this nite is one GREAT way to start it off... "It's gonna be a good summer!" Robert Deniro in Goodfella's

#80 - Posted 2/12/10 @9:40AM by timintey [contact]

"Who gives a flying f*** whether Rush plays the Brady Bunch theme, a butchered up version of anything or cruises in on the Weinermobile singing the Oscar Mayer song???? Some people really suck......... "

ditto brother...

#81 - Posted 2/12/10 @10:57AM by Armeee [contact]

Good luck seeing RUSH on NBC.
Unless there is an American angle to RUSH...... they will cut to a stupid "Geico" commercial or something.

Just like when the boys showed up on Jon Stewart, they went to commercial during the song.

Tune into CTV/TSN coverage if you can.

#82 - Posted 2/12/10 @12:24PM by katskahnne [contact]

I'm not too bothered at the idea of the syncing and I'll tell you why...

First, they'll be in good company. Anyone who watched President Obama's inauguration probably knows that Yo Yo Ma's performance was pre-rec. The bitter cold affected the tuning and the pliability of his cello strings, and it would have been near impossible to pull that one off live, so - indeed, at that event, some of the performances were synced.

Second, with an event of this magnitude and all the tight cues and the potential fusterclucks if anything goes the least bit awry...look, I wish as much as anyone that Rush could just PLAY, period, and let the world see for themselves what they can do. Inserting a segment like that in the middle of a super-tightly choreographed, mixed, balanced, etc. production could cause nightmares in itself even if the guys play every note full-on perfect. Trapped by technology.

Third, and this is only a mixture of conjecture and hopeful thinking on my part...I'm guessing they will have pre-recorded, on their own, a performance of whatever they play especially for this event. It won't be the MP version of YYZ straight off the CD.

Finally, at least the Vancouver crew have the testicular fortitude to admit to the "enhancements" to the performances. Remember Beijing? They even subbed one little girl to lip-sync in the place of the girl who sang on the recording, because they didn't think the girl who sang was cute enough! She was a little girl, FFS!!! (Martha Wash Award...)

At least, what we hear WILL be Rush. And it will be great. I'm getting goosebumps just thinking about it!

#83 - Posted 2/12/10 @9:30PM by towhee111 [contact]

#64 SO Funny! Thanks. Yes, definitely Rivendell should have been the obvoius choice. :)

#84 - Posted 2/13/10 @2:08AM by condor521 [contact]

WAIT A SECOND!

I was at the Calgary 88 closing ceremony and it is just as big a deal as the opening despite the lighting of the flame. There is plenty of time for the acts everyone is talking about including RUSH.

There is still a huge chance they will play at the close. Really thats when the athletes can let go and party. It really makes sense to have the rock and roll take place on the last day. Many of the big names did not even walk in the opening event as they race Saturday.

Experience tells me to be patient for the closing ceremony!

#85 - Posted 2/13/10 @4:07AM by xanadurush [contact]

Eddie - you rock my fellow smart rush guy . We definatley want to see you on this next tour. I so love my Alex Ged & N.

Thanks for everything!!! xoxoxoxooxox

#86 - Posted 2/13/10 @8:27AM by longtimephillyfan [contact]

wtf

#87 - Posted 2/13/10 @12:02PM by MMCXII

i stayed glued to the tv for the most aggressive lip synching ever. No playing live, no band on stage, no Rush playing. A clean sweep! Practicing for curling I suppose.
Go Canada!

#88 - Posted 2/13/10 @12:20PM by cagster [contact]

Ed no problems here at all, the rumor reported was listed as a rumor and the rest is up to me.
Same goes for Biff
(I did like the the post about putting a second coat of wax on the car) We choose what to believe on this sight. All the posts are what they are and we are all entitled to opinions. This is what makes the sight interesting.

We had a let down and some were pissed big whooped dee doo it happens all the time.

Great job Ed

Rush is the best!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHRED

#89 - Posted 2/13/10 @2:03PM by SpaceTrucker [contact]

Very disappointed RUSH did not perform at the opening ceremonies, that's the only reason I would watch. Luckily I recorded the event and will not have to fast forward through all the other garbage to watch RUSH, I will now simply erase it.

If it is true that the segment featuring RUSH was canceled due to the tragic death of the Russian Luger because it was upbeat, I find that ridiculous. Every athlete that goes into these games understands there is risk of injury or even death. By canceling the segment they did a disservice to all who prepared and worked so hard for it. The games must go on, and so should have RUSH!

The boys got punked once again, just like they do every year by the Rock and Roll Hall of Lame.

SpaceTrucker
RockChoice.com

#90 - Posted 2/13/10 @2:08PM by jediyyz [contact]

"UPDATE-2/12@11:52AM:I also just learned that they may be playing Closer to the Heart as well.:)"...look I've been on RIAB for years and check it every day...the previous statement came from ED...it seemed legitimate...if there was any doubt why post the statement?! The fact of the matter is if your going to post a claim as a web master and it turns out to be way off, you will hear about it. I would just like to know how the so-called source was so wrong. It appears Ed was burned by the "source"...I never called anyone a name and I find it ironic that someone posting to a blog at almost 2am would tell me to get a life! In my opinion the organizer of the OC's blew a big chance to do something cool and include Rush...for the record I would have watched the OC's anyway, but not with the same anticipation provided by the false story that Rush would perform. I am disappointed to say the least! It was a bad job of information sharing!

#91 - Posted 2/13/10 @3:16PM by SpaceTrucker [contact]

In a recent article in the Toronto Sun, Neil mentioned that the band is not sure what format they will use to release new material. He commented that he is torn between the traditional method of writing, recording, and releasing a record and the freedom they feel by the current state of the music business. He also mentioned the significance in these times of iTunes and shuffle settings and whatnot. When asked if the band might start making music in smaller increments Neil replied, "Or larger."

When I read this, I immediately thought, what a great opportunity for RUSH to get back to what they used to do so well, write epic songs that covered an entire album side like The Fountain of Lamneth from Caress of Steel or 2112 from the album of the same name. Or 10 to 15 minute songs like, Cygnus X-1 which carries over to the album Hemispheres with the song Cygnus X-1 Book II: Hemispheres, or La Via Strangiato from the same album.

Remember, after Caress of Steel their record company was not happy and pressured RUSH to put out a more commercially structured album, and what did the boys do, just the opposite, they released 2112 with one song representing the entire side of the record, awesome! A big F-you to the record company.

Now it could be a big F-you to iTunes.

I say go larger RUSH!

SpaceTrucker
RockChoice.com

#92 - Posted 2/13/10 @4:50PM by Sirius [contact]

Since the last Post Reached 500 Comments (Which I Could Not Believe!!)Im posting here!

I Was away due to my comp beeing fixed and Couldnt Believe this!

I Was not able to see the ceremony also but i've seen that the band was expected to play along with a couple of other celebrities.

Concerning the heat on the last thread,for the info,i've read all the 501 comments and im not happy how it ended.First of all..THIS WAS A RUMOR..so stop bitching on ED!! u guys have to admit that 99% of what Ed Reports on this blog is true,the accident earlier yesterday just changed a bit of things..im sure that Ed would never post something that he's not sure of...and wtv,seriously,I Dont even care if Rush even plays at the olympics!..sure,they would be a good choice to represent Canada of course..But as long as the boys dont quit and make music,thats fine for me!

off topic*
Happy late bday to *AIR* Lance

I Just Hope that everybody will calm down after this,because if not,RIAB will not be pleasant to watch for me anymore!..or in other words,Sirius Will disappear into the night forever!

Hope everyone have a good weekend

The Dog *

#93 - Posted 2/13/10 @9:17PM by Ant [contact]

Since the last thread reached the 501 post max...

This message really is just for Ed... don't worry about what all these asspipes have been posting... knocking or questioning you about Rush's performance at the Olympics.

Who cares really? The fact is, you do so much for Rush fans and it should always be appreciated. Don't disrespect this Ed!

I have to laugh at all these pathetic dorks so upset they watched 4 hours of crappy television! Or those whose reputation is ruined because they told all their friends Rush was going to perform... you are all a bunch of sad, pathetic shitholes!

Ed, really, let's move on...

Ant

#94 - Posted 2/13/10 @9:53PM by I love Rush [contact]

Nice Ant #93
I'm not a fan of swear words, but you used them well!

I wonder if the death of the young man "hit way too close to home" for Neil--wasn't Selena around the same age? Perhaps it was Neil/Rush who backed out because of the trajedy

#95 - Posted 2/13/10 @11:12PM by SpaceTrucker [contact]

Even if RUSH were supposed to perform at the opening ceremonies, and remember this was only a rumor with no official source confirming or denying, I seriously doubt Neil or the rest of the band would have backed out of a chance the show the rest of the world that RUSH is the greatest Hard Rock Progressive band EVER, because of the death of a Russian athlete.

The tragedies that Neil experienced were quite a few years ago, and what does Selena have to do with this?

SpaceTrucker
RockChoice.com

#96 - Posted 2/14/10 @1:09AM by MAVIII [contact]

Hmm...
Ironic that I wanted see the Opening Ceramonies and missed it because I had to attend a Production meeting.
Then got a phone call about the tragic accident :(
...and had NO IDEA about this possibility that Rush was to perform until I saw it mentioned in a chat on my fave Prog
Internet Station.

Simply though: We will NEVER know what is the truth (but I can believe Ed ;) until we get official word from the Rush camp.

But as someone said in the "501" comments:
"The Olympics are about the Athletes, not Rush".

Folks, stop smackin' each other, I thought we were Rush Fans?

...sayin'.

#97 - Posted 2/14/10 @1:14AM by MAVIII [contact]

Ugh...
Sorry about my "formatting", was never good at that and
wish I could edit :P

#98 - Posted 2/14/10 @9:24AM by Lotus77 [contact]

So let's go over this....

We come to this site & we read that our boy's *may* play the opening cermeonies. So far so good.
What better way to get a bunch of Rush fans excited??!

Fast forward to Friday night.
We're treated to:

Bryan Adams. OK.
A shoeless KD Lang.
"pop sensation", Nelly Furtado. Hip hip hurrah.

I haven't read the comments on this thread yet, but I did skim the ones on the more recent one & I'm Not seeing more anger.
Is Anyone questioning the *source* of this rumor??

At this stage, I'm surprised they didn't also tell us they'd do a rousing audience sing along to All of 'Hemispheres', & that Apollo & Dinonysus will also be there passin out olive leaves.

I'm genuinely annoyed that this hype came to absolute zero.

#99 - Posted 2/14/10 @11:51AM by rocinante5m [contact]

Ok, one more time for the slow people out there, especially you Jediyyz....Rush was there, Rush was going to perform, various agencies confirmed this, tragedy struck, they decided to cut the segment, period.....What don't you people understand about this????........Go away

#100 - Posted 2/14/10 @12:38PM by main monkey business [contact]

Hey "Roc"...I've been reading some of the threads on the weekly update..and it is becoming very apparant that we have acquired some real genuine losers on this blog.
People cutting down Rush, cutting down Ed, cutting down Donna H? I really think the Rats need to take this site back and run some of these idiots out of here. This is getting pathetic, and also a reason I don't post much anymore.
An athlete dies, and people are worried about Rush? I realize that any athlete who participates in a sport is risking injury and life on his own merit...but a tragedy like this..and people want to bash Ed? Losers Roc...there are some genuine losers on here. I'll get with you, Lance, and some of the others later about trying to take this site back for the people who actually know how to use their brain. To those of you who insist on posting rude, ridiculous, or offensive comments...go take your toys, and your drugs, and go home. Leave this site for the grown-ups who have made this site what it is.

We now return to logical, more responsible programming........

#101 - Posted 2/14/10 @2:07PM by namesake [contact]

Long time lurker but long time fan of RUSH and reader of RIAB.

Just wanted to voice my support for Ed and his work.

It's a shame we didn't get a chance to see our fave band in action, but it just whets the appetite more for this year's tour!

To the negative folks-- please grow up and learn to deal with your dissapointment in a constructive manner.
If you don't know how-- well, go do some community service while wearing your favorite RUSH t-shirt.

#102 - Posted 2/14/10 @2:11PM by jediyyz [contact]

Since when has this site been reduced to name calling and attacks! #93 My children frequent this site because they love Rush...profanity isn't called for. It's ironic #99 that you call me slow...know nothing about me, and then go on to make a comment that has no basis in fact. Geddy and Alex were allegedly sighted, last time I checked the band we love is a Trio not a duo! This has always been a site to give our opinions on Rush and Rush related stories. Since when is stating ones opinion a crime worthy of name calling (losers, idiots etc..)? Presumably we all come here because we enjoy the music of Rush, that doesn't mean we all agree on all the other issues in the world. The site also at times has become a social network...and it certainly does not belong to a certain group of fans!!

Lastly, my opinion that Ed's "source" in this case was wrong, is what I believe...how is that bashing Ed? I respect a lot of Ed's work on RIAB and that is one of the reasons I go back so long on his site! The fact remains that the "source" jumped the gun and perhaps assumed Canada and the Olympics would do the right thing and honor Rush. Why would it surprise any of us long time fans that Rush would get the shaft?! It's happened before and it will most likely happen again! Until I hear official word that part of the opening Ceremony was scrapped, I can choose not to believe it. Why would the appearance of Rush be insensitive anyway?! It would have been fitting and fantastic...and that as well is what I choose to believe!

Endlessly Rocking!!

#103 - Posted 2/14/10 @2:47PM by Rob

Just my two cents....Hard to get my head around what happened Friday night till now. Reading a thread that topped out at 500 comments (not since the release of S&A I think). What I saw was about a dozen negative comments (out of 500) towards RIAB....about 20 comments expressing their dissapointment of the whole thing, 50 comments supporting Ed, and countless comments from people who think they own part of this place.

Why get so excited about approx 2.5% of the thread? Two of the persons responsible for these comments have already apoligized to Ed. What's all the hub-bub about? These comments came out of dissapointment and anger....something I think EVERYONE on this site felt. Don't go head hunting because people were being emotional. I think the people that made these comments...now with a more level head, know this wasn't Ed's fault.

What seems more disturbing to me are all the reactionarys that feel the need to do some butt-whipping anytime someone steps out of line.

To those who slammed Ed...please apoligize

Let's move on.

#104 - Posted 2/14/10 @5:47PM by MAVIII [contact]

Amen Rob! :clap:

"How can we ever agree?
Like the rest of the world
We grow farther apart
I swear you don't listen to me
Holding my hand to my heart
Holding my fist to my racing heart

Take a walk outside myself
In some exotic land
Greet a passing stranger
Feel the strength in his hand
Feel the world expand

I feel my spirit resist
But I open up my fist
Lay hand over hand over
Hand over fist..."

#105 - Posted 2/14/10 @6:09PM by TheHonestMan [contact]

Check out this link. It's a news article that says everything the Ed said in his last update. Apparently there were reports of them rehearsing CTTH heart at BC Place.

link

#106 - Posted 2/14/10 @6:12PM by JesseZ [contact]

Ed is great. The site is great.

But, seriously, some of you need to knock it off with the whole segment cancellation nonsense! Cancelled due to sensitivity? Really? That's just ridiculous.

So, goofballs w/ faux-tattoos prancing around with fiddles and a chubby Otho from Beetlejuice look-a-like reciting wretched cringe inducing 'slam ' poetry (is this 1996?) these performances aren't insensitive!?!? OK. Right.

Rush. Was. Never. Playing. Period. So what? Geeeez.

#107 - Posted 2/14/10 @6:32PM by TheHonestMan [contact]

#107 - Hey man, take a deep breath and relax. Some of us are just curious as to what happened. Why was this rumor so widespread if it was completely untrue? If there was a segment that was cut out, we'll never know what else was part of it. I doubt it was cut because of RUSH; there may have been other aspects that were deemed insensitive. Furthermore, it may have just been cut due to time constraints a week or two ago. There's nothing wrong with trying to explain the situation.

It should be noted, that the link from my post in 105, links back to here at the end when discussing the closing ceremonies. I realized this after I posted it here, and I'm not sure if all of that info came from RIAB or if other sources were involved.

#108 - Posted 2/14/10 @8:04PM by rocinante5m [contact]

Nice try slick, now you want to act like the big guy, too late....

"Who are your sources?? Lincoln, Benjamin Washington??"
I think it was something like that you posted, among other BS......

do yourself a favor and click on the link TheHonestMan posted, then after your done, be a man, a give your kids who read the threads a good example of what being a man is and apologize to Ed.......and as far as your whole "Rush is a Trio thing" goes, did it ever cross your mind that perhaps just Alex and Geddy would do an acoustic version of CTTH and maybe that would be a good out for Neil, if he didn't want to be involved......probably not.......

like i said, be a man and apologize....

"Reveal your sources!!! Reveal your sources!!!"
Really dude??? it's actually kind of funny, thanks

#109 - Posted 2/14/10 @8:46PM by unktehila [contact]

right on, Roc.

#110 - Posted 2/14/10 @9:14PM by jediyyz [contact]

#108 Did you really refer to me as "slick"? I never demanded for Ed to reveal his sources...where you got that is beyond me. As for the money comment...how is it an insult to state the truth that Ed indeed makes money for hosting this blog...it isn't simply a labor of love. I have not noticed Ed demanding an apology...furthermore I didn't say anything that warrants an apology. I"m sure if Ed felt I said anything out of line my comments would be deleted. I'm quite sure I don't need to apologize on a blog to be a role model for my children...since they know me and you obviously don't, I know how they feel about me. If you feel like a man attacking me and referencing my children, well that tells me all I need to know about you...after all Rocinante means a broken down horse...but I'm sure you know that since you seem to know all!

#109 I'm not sure what I've ever done to you...but ok!

#111 - Posted 2/14/10 @9:55PM by TheHonestMan [contact]

#110 - I'm so sorry, but just couldn't resist. A little digging in the closed thread revealed this:

"#405 - Posted 2/13/10 @1:40AM by jediyyz [contact]

#397"The most endangered species...an honest man! Don't even think of telling me to be quiet!!! Yes Ed makes money running the site...give the sources and explain why they were wrong!! Just "Give me the good news first"...but be accurate!!!"

Post 405, which responded to my post 397, was written by you and clearly tells Ed to reveal his sources.

#112 - Posted 2/14/10 @10:17PM by biffmalibu [contact]

#105 that link is actually quoting riab, so it makes sense that it says what Ed was saying. I've never met Ed, mean him no ill will, but obviously he got bad info, no biggie it happens. What I really don't understand is how a few people attacked me and insulted me after I posted that RUSH was not going to perform. Yes I have inside information and no, like Ed, I am not going to divulge my sources. I will repeat what I have posted before, from what I know from my source who has been in the "know" for two weeks in Canada, RUSH was never scheduled to perform, they never rehearsed at the BC Place and besides the flags being at half staff, the ceremony being dedicated and the moment of silence, the opening ceremonies were not changed. As of now, RUSH is not scheduled to perform in the closing ceremonies either. No on is more pissed or disappointed than me, as I thought they were shoe in for the ceremonies. I still hold out hope that they might perform at a medal ceremonies concert or some other venue associated with the Olympics. Hopefully see some of you on the next tour, where a few people have already offered to buy me a beer, you get the first round and I got the next one.

#113 - Posted 2/14/10 @10:18PM by jediyyz [contact]

#111 Yes I asked for the source, but I did not demand the source over and over! Am I the only one curious about a source that was obviously wrong? I hardly call that insulting.

#108 Hard to even imagine cutting CTTH because it would be insensitive...and no, why perform as Rush without Neil Peart...not on that big of a stage in that big of an event!

#114 - Posted 2/14/10 @10:46PM by rocinante5m [contact]

"My wrath is just in the beginning stages....but for starters...I will never...I repeat NEVER believe any rumor or so called source that reports on RIAB!!! Don't forget that ED is making money on this site and it is NOT some labor of love...how in the holy hell was this "reported" so wrong!! I alerted tons of Rush fans of the news and was left with NOTHING!!! KD LANG... what a joke on humanity!! I've posted on here plenty...longer than most of you...but what a dissappointment!!! Let the fray Begin!!!!!!"

Funny, you warned us of it, asked for it and now you can't understand it......too many posts to list where you ask and cry for Ed's sources.......whatever, you're right dude, this site's a sham.....maybe you're just embarrassed that YOU told a bunch of fans that Rush would appear and YOU were left with nothing......with that said (by you) you should have been more understanding towards Ed....either that or you should've checked YOUR sources better......

#115 - Posted 2/14/10 @11:07PM by jediyyz [contact]

Wow!! This is supposed to be a RUSH site, now a few souls are obsessed with reposting things I said on a disappointing Friday night!! I'm done with this subject until anything official comes out with what happened. Perhaps I will run into some of you down the road when Rush returns to the Limelight. Until then as Geddy would say:"Thank you and good night"

Endlessly Rocking!!

#116 - Posted 2/15/10 @4:29AM by conky [contact]

a jedi is s'posed to live by truth and honor...

with your constant defense of your comments/denial you ain't exactly living up to your name---

again, we all understand you are angry/disappointed...
WE ALL WERE/ARE...

but your behavior should lead to a screenname change to Darthyyz as it appears you went over to the dark side with your comments...

if ed makes money from the site - good for him...do you think he does not deserve the spoils of his labor? do you think Ed has been able to retire with the money he makes from RIAB?!?

you can still redeem yourself and come back to the side of "available light"/the jedis (as darth did) by owning up to your comments, apologizing to ed and we can all move on...

one of the major problems with the planet right now is that people are not being held accountable for their own actions...you can start by showing your kidz a good example

#117 - Posted 2/15/10 @8:42AM by rocinante5m [contact]

Nice post Conky....

listen Jediyyz....those who've been here for while know you have been posting for a long time.....this is why some of us are not to pleased with your behavior.......This site is something we should all be very thankful for.....There's a certain amount of respect that should be shown on the threads and especially towards Ed....what you and a few others did was out of line, disrespectful and nothing short of a reaction from a 5 year old spoiled kid.....the reason why some of us keep responding to you is you act as if you have done nothing wrong and we should just move on........sorry dude, perhaps you should be the one to move on, off this site since you obviously don't respect it or it's master.......all would've have been cool and forgotten if you just took a deep breathe, let reality kick in and apologized to Ed on the thread, plain and simple...........

#118 - Posted 2/15/10 @11:43PM by MAVIII [contact]

To divert things a bit here...

I have been looking for any latest news (none yet) but came
across this in the "New York Daily News", check out all the
performers they (and People Mag.) predicted-as each of them
have "Links", guess the 1 Band that didn't:
link
If there was a Band that the media just WGAF about, thats
our boys :(

Also these sites chime in:
Talk Bass.com:
link

Portnoys Site: link
(almost a play by play at the end -hehe)

#119 - Posted 2/19/10 @7:51PM by Rusty Shackleford

Ever notice this place is full of internet mall cops?

RUSH IS A BAND

Blogoshperes

Thursday, February 11, 2010

Rush expected to perform at Winter Olympics opening ceremony

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Thursday, February 11, 2010

Rush expected to perform at Winter Olympics opening ceremony

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