UPDATE: 2:45 p.m.
Canadian rock band Rush acknowledged drummer Neil Peart's death on its Facebook page Friday afternoon (Jan. 10).
"It is with broken hearts and the deepest sadness that we must share the terrible news that on Tuesday our friend, soul brother and band mate of over 45 years, Neil, has lost his incredibly brave three and a half year battle with brain cancer (Glioblastoma)," the band posted.
"We ask that friends, fans, and media alike understandably respect the family’s need for privacy and peace at this extremely painful and difficult time. Those wishing to express their condolences can choose a cancer research group or charity of their choice and make a donation in Neil Peart's name.
"Rest in peace brother. Neil Peart September 12, 1952 - January 7, 2020."
ORIGINAL: 1:20 p.m.
A Canadian rock legend has died.
Neil Peart, drummer of the prog-rock band Rush, died Tuesday (Jan. 7) in Santa Monica, California, Rolling Stone magazine reports. He was 67.
Peart, widely regarded as one of the best drummers in rock history, had quietly battled brain cancer for the past three years, a family spokesperson told the magazine.
Peart was one-third of the iconic Canadian band, along with singer-bassist Geddy Lee and guitarist Alex Lifeson.
Formed in 1974, the band had hits including "Spirit of the Radio," "Tom Sawyer," "Red Barchetta," "The Analog Kid" and more. They continue to be a staple of Canadian rock radio.
Rush ended touring in 2015.
RIP Rush’s Neil Peart, dead of brain cancer at age 67. https://t.co/xu2UFUE0Sd
— Alan Cross (@alancross) January 10, 2020
