R.I.P. John Rutsey

[Darin]

from blabbermouth.net (http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=96902)
RUSH's Founding Drummer JOHN RUTSEY Dead At 55 - May 13, 2008

Jason Ward of Q107 Classic Rock reports that John Rutsey, a founding member of Toronto rock band RUSH, passed away this weekend according to RUSH management company Anthem Entertainment. He was 55.

Rutsey was famous for playing on RUSH's 1974 debut album, including the song "In The Mood", before deciding to leave the group due to health concerns. Rutsey suffered from diabetes and was unable to go on extended tours with the group.

Rutsey was replaced by drummer Neil Peart, which marked a turning point in the band’s sound towards progressive rock.

http://www.spirit-of-metal.com/membre_groupe/photo/John_Rutsey-12768.jpg

[Falcon]

I always wondered what happened to Rutsey... Finally found out, but not until after he passed away. RIP John!

Love the first Rush LP!

[Darin]

I was just thinking the other day that "Working man" probably gets far more commercial radio airplay than any other RUSH song...I'd have to say even more than "Tom Sawyer." I guess it speaks to the "common man" and isn't as progressive or challenging to the ears as some of Rush's other songs to the uninitiated....not that RUSH is really what I would consider "complicated" music but the vast majority of people are dumb so....

SO....I could be argued that John Rutsey is probably heard MORE than Neil Peart to the average Joe. Perhaps even the reason people get interested in RUSH.

Just sayin'