For over four decades, Geddy Lee has mesmerized fans with his ability to….
Geddy Lee, the legendary bassist and frontman of the iconic rock band Rush, has always been known for his incredible musical prowess. As the driving force behind the band’s intricate sound, Lee has been celebrated not only for his exceptional bass playing but also for his powerful vocals and complex keyboard work. However, in a recent interview, Lee revealed that even for him, there’s one Rush song that stands out as the most challenging to play on bass while singing—both mentally and physically.The Challenge of Being Geddy LeeFor over four decades, Geddy Lee has mesmerized fans with his ability to simultaneously handle the responsibilities of a bassist, vocalist, and keyboardist in one of the most technically demanding bands in rock history. Rush’s music is famously complex, with odd time signatures, intricate arrangements, and rapid tempo changes that push the limits of even the most seasoned musicians.Lee’s role in Rush has always been a demanding one. Not only did he craft some of the most memorable bass lines in rock, but he also had to deliver the band’s high-pitched, melodic vocals—all while playing intricate keyboard parts with his hands and occasionally triggering effects with foot pedals. It’s no wonder that fans and fellow musicians alike have long marveled at his ability to juggle these multiple roles with such finesse.The Hardest Song to Play and SingWhen asked about the most challenging Rush song to play on bass while singing, Lee didn’t hesitate to point to “The Trees,” a track from the band’s 1978 album Hemispheres. Known for its intricate bass line, complex time signatures, and thought-provoking lyrics, “The Trees” is a song that epitomizes the technical and intellectual demands of Rush’s music.According to Lee, what makes “The Trees” particularly challenging is the combination of its rapid tempo changes and the need to switch between playing intricate bass patterns and singing lyrics that require precise timing and emotional delivery. The song’s bass line is fast, fluid, and constantly shifting, making it difficult to stay in sync with the vocals while also keeping the rhythm tight.“The bass part in ‘The Trees’ is a real workout,” Lee admitted. “It’s one of those songs where you’re constantly moving your fingers across the fretboard, and there’s no room for error. At the same time, you have to be conscious of the vocal melody and the lyrics, which are very precise and have to be delivered with a certain intensity. It’s like trying to solve a complex puzzle while running a marathon.”Breaking Down the ComplexityTo fully appreciate the challenge of “The Trees,” it’s important to understand the song’s structure. The track is built around a shifting time signature that alternates between 6/8 and 4/4, creating a rhythmic complexity that requires precise coordination between the bass, drums, and guitar. Neil Peart’s intricate drum patterns, combined with Alex Lifeson’s dynamic guitar work, add to the complexity, making it a true test of the band’s collective musicianship.For Lee, the challenge lies not only in executing the fast-paced bass line but also in synchronizing it with his vocal performance. The song’s lyrics, which tell a metaphorical story about conflict and resolution among trees in a forest, require careful attention to phrasing and emphasis. This means that Lee has to split his focus between his fingers on the fretboard and his vocal delivery, all while keeping time with the rest of the band.“The vocal part in ‘The Trees’ isn’t just about hitting the right notes,” Lee explained. “It’s about conveying the emotion and meaning behind the lyrics. The bass line, on the other hand, is very physical—it requires a lot of movement and precision. Balancing those two aspects is incredibly challenging, especially in a live setting where there’s no room for mistakes.”The Mastery Behind the MusicDespite the difficulty, Geddy Lee has always risen to the occasion, delivering flawless performances of “The Trees” both in the studio and on stage. His ability to navigate the song’s complexities is a testament to his mastery of his craft, as well as his dedication to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in rock music.Over the years, Lee has developed a variety of techniques to help him manage the demands of playing bass and singing simultaneously. One of his key strategies is to break down the song into smaller sections, practicing each part separately before gradually combining them. This method allows him to internalize the bass line and vocal melody individually, making it easier to synchronize them during a performance.“I’ve always approached difficult songs like ‘The Trees’ with a lot of preparation,” Lee said. “I’ll spend hours practicing the bass part on its own, then I’ll work on the vocals separately. Once I feel comfortable with both, I’ll start putting them together. It’s a process that takes time and patience, but it’s the only way to really nail those challenging songs.”A Testament to Geddy Lee’s SkillFor fans of Rush, hearing Geddy Lee describe the challenges of playing “The Trees” only deepens their appreciation for his extraordinary talent. The song is just one example of the many technically demanding pieces that Lee has mastered over the years, each showcasing his ability to seamlessly integrate complex bass lines with soaring vocals.Even after decades of performing some of the most challenging music in rock history, Lee continues to inspire musicians and fans alike with his dedication to his craft. His ability to take on songs like “The Trees” and make them sound effortless is a testament to his skill, his work ethic, and his love for music.As Rush’s legacy continues to grow, Geddy Lee remains a shining example of what it means to be a true musician—one who is not only a master of his instrument but also a storyteller, an innovator, and a performer who can rise to any challenge. “The Trees” may be the hardest Rush song to play on bass while singing, but for Geddy Lee, it’s just another day in the life of one of rock’s greatest legends.
