Summertime Blues

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Summertime Blues" by Rush from their 2004 EP Feedback, and the Zoo Freaks are vibing to this rocking cover! This track, originally by Eddie Cochran, was chosen by Rush to kick off their covers EP, celebrating the songs that shaped their early years. In the liner notes for Feedback, drummer Neil Peart shared that he first encountered "Summertime Blues" through local bands in St. Catharines, Ontario, in the mid-1960s, and later played it with his band Momblin’ Sumpthin’, inspired by Blue Cheer’s heavy version. Geddy Lee, in an interview, praised The Who’s aggressive take on the song from their Live at Leeds album, noting it heavily influenced Rush’s rendition. The band’s version blends Blue Cheer’s heft with The Who’s energy, but with a distinct Rush stamp—Geddy’s soaring vocals, Alex Lifeson’s gritty guitar, and Peart’s tight drumming. When performed live during their R30: 30th Anniversary Tour, fans belted out lines like “No dice son, you gotta work late,” making it a communal anthem, as noted on Songfacts.

Rush recorded Feedback in a nostalgic haze, channeling their teenage selves from 1966-67. Peart described the recording sessions in Toronto’s Phase One Studios as a time warp, with the band surrounded by bead lights and lava lamps, jamming like they did in their early days. The EP, released to mark their 30th anniversary, wasn’t just a tribute to influences like The Who, Cream, and Buffalo Springfield—it was a love letter to their roots. Rush posted about the EP’s release on X in 2018, reminding fans of its significance. The track also got a nod as the theme for WWE’s SummerSlam 2004, amplifying its summer rebellion vibe. Some fans, as seen in reviews on Progarchives, were initially shocked by Rush tackling shorter, less progressive songs, but many embraced the raw energy, especially Lifeson’s guitar work, which shines on "Summertime Blues."

Rush began in Toronto in 1968, formed by guitarist Alex Lifeson, bassist/vocalist Jeff Jones, and drummer John Rutsey. Geddy Lee quickly replaced Jones, and the trio gigged in local bars, playing covers of Cream, Hendrix, and Led Zeppelin. As Peart recalled, their early bands had wild names like Dusty Coconuts and Waterlogged Gorilla Fingers, reflecting their youthful exuberance. By 1974, after their self-titled debut album, Rutsey left due to health issues, and Neil Peart joined, solidifying the classic lineup. Peart’s intricate drumming and thoughtful lyrics elevated their sound, leading to their breakthrough with albums like 2112. Their early days were gritty—playing hole-in-the-wall venues and learning chords to songs like "Crossroads" and "Mr. Soul," some of which later appeared on Feedback. This DIY spirit and dedication to craft made them progressive rock legends, selling tens of millions of albums.

Stay connected with Rush through their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Fans can dive deeper at The Rush Forum, a vibrant community for Zoo Freaks and beyond to discuss the band’s legacy. Join the Rush Fans Facebook group to share stories and connect with fellow devotees. Whether you’re raising a fuss or a holler, Rush’s music keeps the summer blues at bay!