Even rock legends face insecurity – just ask Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson.
Despite decades of acclaim and his status as one of rock’s most innovative guitarists, Lifeson recently revealed that confidence in his playing has never come easily. In a candid interview with Guitar World, the iconic musician admitted he’s “never been very confident” in his skills and has always felt the need to work hard to keep up.
“I’ve never been very confident, to be honest with you, as a player,” Lifeson shared. “I’ve always felt like I had to work hard, and maybe I didn’t appreciate that I have a natural talent for playing guitar.”
His introspection comes nearly ten years after Rush played their final show at The Forum in Los Angeles. Following that milestone — and especially after the tragic passing of Rush drummer Neil Peart in 2020 — Lifeson distanced himself from the guitar that had been central to his life.
However, a recent musical endeavor helped him reconnect with his passion. Collaborating with Envy of None, an experimental supergroup featuring Alfio Annibalini, Andy Curran, and vocalist Maiah Wynne, Lifeson found his way back to the instrument with fresh energy.
“I know where I came from, and I know what I was like as a player for the bulk of my main career,” he said. “Now, I’m more of a sensitive player.”
Returning to guitar playing wasn’t without its difficulties. After a long break, Lifeson had to retrain both his fingers and mindset to return to form.
“My fingers feel better! But I’m 71,” he said. “I’m not going to play like I did when I was 21 – or 51, for that matter. It’s a long road when you’re at this age. I’m battling the things that come with advanced years, but my fingers feel so much better than they did six months ago. They’re grateful to me for doing this and getting them back into shape.”
Reflecting on where he is today, Lifeson added, “I feel confident. I feel happy. I feel reborn in terms of playing. It’s a good place for me right now.”
Though self-doubt has followed him throughout his storied career, Alex Lifeson now finds himself in a renewed chapter – one where he embraces his journey, his growth, and the joy of playing once again.