In 1994, Rush were inducted to the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, after a mere 20 years as a recording band.  Not bad for three nerds from Southern Ontario.  I had my VCR running that night, and this is the whole segment, complete and uncut, with all introductions and fades, unlike other copies on YouTube.  Tom Cochrane was selected to induct them.

“Tonight we’re here to blow the lid off our three friends,” says Cochrane.

This 17 minute segment includes interviews with Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Neil Peart.  Tom Cochrane narrates the story of the unstoppable band with the rock solid fanbase.  It’s funny in hindsight to hear Neil talking about having fans as old as 40.  There is testimony from fans both young and old.

Celebrity fans also appear with awesome stories and tributes:

• Mike Myers (Wayne’s World)
• Sebastian Bach (Skid Row)
• Tyler Stewart, Andy Creegan, Jim Creegan, and Ed Robertson (Barenaked Ladies)
• Peter Collins (producer)
• The Tragically Hip (performing “Limelight”)
• Kim Mitchell (Max Webster)
• Joe Carter & Paul Molitor (Toronto Blue Jays)
• Les Claypool, Larry Lalond & Tim Alexander (Primus)
• Vernon Reid (Living Colour)
• Chris Cornell & Kim Thayil (Soundgarden)
• Ben Mink
• Sam Sniderman (Sam the Record Man)
• Ray Danniels (Rush Manager)

As a precursor to things Alex Lifeson would say and do in the future, he is the comedy relief here.  His son Justin also has a comedic bit, proving it’s in the genes.  Poignantly though, Alex wishes for another 20 years…which, sadly, is all they got.

This is a beautiful tribute to Canada’s greatest export. Watch the whole thing; you will not regret the 17 minutes.