The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Neil Peart, died on Tuesday in Santa Monica, with his spokesperson confirming the news. According to Rolling Stone, the Rush bandmate had been battling for with brain cancer.
In a statement released Friday his bandmates called Peart their “friend, soul brother and bandmate over 45 years,” and “incredibly brave” during his fight against cancer.
The Canadian band played a final tour in 2015, culminating in a final show at the Forum in Los Angeles.
Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl led the tributes to the rock icon and bid farewell to the “true giant of rock and roll”.
In a statement to Rolling Stone, he said: “Today, the world has lost a true giant in the history of rock and roll.
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“An inspiration to millions with an unmistakable sound who spawned generations of musicians (like myself) to pick up two sticks and chase a dream.
“A kind, thoughtful, brilliant man who ruled our radios and turntables not only with his drumming, but also his beautiful words.”
Dave continued, “I still vividly remember my first listen of 2112 when I was young.
“It was the first time I really listened to a drummer. And since that day, music has never been the same.
Tommy Thayer, longtime KISS insider and the band’s guitarist since 2002, also chimed in, writing: “So sad to hear about Neil Peart passing. My deepest condolences to his family, friends and fans.”
Geezer Butler, Black Sabbath’s founding bassist, wrote: “Sad to hear of Neil Peart’s passing. RIP.”
Neil was one of the most admired drummers in rock music and was best known for his massive drum kits and his onstage showmanship.
The drummer first joined Rush in 1974 alongside frontman and bassist Geddy Lee and guitarist Alex Lifeson.
According to the RIAA, Rush’s album sales statistics put them third behind The Beatles and The Rolling Stones for the most consecutive gold or platinum albums by a rock band.
Rush also ranks 79th in US album sales with 25 million units and worldwide, the band has moved over 40 million units.
In addition to being a world-class drummer, Neil was also the author of several books.
He is survived by his wife, Carrie Nuttal, and daughter Olivia.