Drumeo has broken down Neil Peart’s iconic drumming on RUSH’s “Tom Sawyer,” a move that keeps one of rock’s most studied drum parts in active circulation for players and fans. For publishers, songwriters, and rights holders, the continued spotlight on a classic like this shows how catalog moments can keep generating attention through lesson-driven content.
Drumeo dissects the song in four parts
The video is part of Drumeo’s continuing series focused on some of the most legendary drum parts in rock history. Host Brandon Toews breaks “Tom Sawyer” into four primary sections: the primary groove, the 7/8 instrumental section, the guitar solo with its time changes, and the drum solo that has remained a staple in drummers’ arsenals for over four decades.
The lesson goes deep into the details of Peart’s playing and highlights the elements that have made his parts so compelling to drummers past and present.
Peart’s legacy remains central to the conversation
Peart ranks in the Top 5 of Consequence’s 100 Best Drummers of All Time. He died in 2020 at age 67 from an aggressive form of brain cancer. Peart played with RUSH alongside Alex Lifeson and Geddy Lee for 41 years, from 1974 until his 2015 retirement after the “R40” tour.
Anika Nilles carries the part on RUSH’s reunion run
On RUSH’s current “Fifty Something” reunion tour, drummer Anika Nilles is filling Peart’s role and drawing high praise for her performances, including nailing the “Tom Sawyer” solo.
What to watch next: Brandon Toews’ full breakdown of “Tom Sawyer” and Anika Nilles playing the song’s solo are both featured in the video, along with Drumeo’s free 30-day trial offer for lessons and other content.
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