INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
Neil Peart - the drummer for Canadian prog-rock group Rush - has died at the age of 67, according to a statement from the band.In a tweet,
the band said he died on Tuesday after an "incredibly brave" battle with brain cancer.Often credited with being one of the best drummers of
all-time, Peart was known for performing on massive and elaborate drum kits with great speed, technical proficiency and stamina.Image:Peart
was described as having 'the hands of god'Peart and his Rush bandmates Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson recorded hits such as The Spirit Of Radio
and Tom Sawyer.Peart also wrote lyrics for the group.The group last toured in 2015 and played their final show in Los Angeles at the Forum
Peart announced his retirement from drumming and from Rush in December of the same year.A statement posted on the band's Twitter account
said: "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)."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's
name."Rest in peace brother.":: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, SpreakerGene Simmons, frontman
of Kiss, led the tributes, calling Peart a "kind soul", adding: "My prayers and condolences to the Peart family and friends."Foo Fighters
frontman and former Nirvana drummer Dave Grohl added his tribute, calling Peart "The Professor", saying "he will be sorely missed", while
Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins simply said: "Neil Peart had the hands of god
End of story."Jack Black, actor and member of comedy-rock duo Tenacious D, tweeted: "The master will be missed - Neil Peart RIP."
