Original Rush Drummer Dead At 55

Founding member and original Rush drummer John Rutsey died last weekend. He reportedly suffered a heart attack while sleeping. Rutsey also suffered from diabetes, which was cited as one of the reasons he left Rush back in 1974.

Rutsey teamed up with Alex Lifeson and Geddy Lee in 1968 to form Rush and performed on the group’s first album, the self-titled Rush.

After leaving Rush, Rutsey drifted away from music and became involved in amateur body building competition.

Rutsey was replaced by Neil Peart who also assumed the role as the groups primary lyricist.

Rush went on to enjoy a successful decades-long career that continues today with the group currently on the road with the second half of their Snakes & Arrows tour.