Alex Lifeson

Best known as the broadlyskilled guitarist for the rock group Rush which also features drummer Neil Peart and bassist Geddy Lee Rush is the most successful Canadian music group in history and is the third most prolific seller of consecutive American Gold and Platinum Records and videos behind only the Beatles and the Rolling Stones Lifesons ability to pull doubleduty as both a melodic rhythmguitar player and a searing soloist has earned him a reputation similar to that of his bandmates All three share the distinction of being among the most highly influential virtuosos in their crafts Alex has a passion for studio production and is the only member of Rush to compose and produce a television theme Andromeda 2000 But his live performances are where his spontaneous side really shows During live performances Alex deftly switches from rhythm guitar to soloing while simultaneously triggering his own prerecorded accompaniments Being the soul of spontaneity in the band Alex is the member of Rush who most frequently contributes comedy to the show This side of Alex can be seen during the performances of La Villa Strangiato on two of Rushs concert videos Rush in Rio 2003 and Rush A Show of Hands 1989 and to an even greater degree on the documentary The Boys In Brazil 2003 part of the bonus material included with Rush in Rio 2003 Alexs prowess can be heard on a few nonRush recordings primarily his solo album entitled simply Victor 1996 and the soundtrack album for South Park Bigger Longer Uncut 1999 After their longest break from recording and touring a highly successful 2002 tour brought Rush back to the United States Canada and Mexico to the great anticipation of fans Rush ended their 2002 tour with their firstever shows in Brazil where they played to 125000 fans in three nights The final performance of the 2002 tour was captured on DVD as Rush in Rio 2003 which was certified doubleplatinum within weeks of its release Alex has fostered several younger groups such as The Dexters who he often guests with during their live performances at The Orbit Room a Toronto club that Alex owns in part