Stone Temple Pilots’ Robert DeLeo On Rush: ‘Intelligent Music For Intelligent People’

Stone Temple Pilots bassist Robert DeLeo mentioned during an interview with AXS TV he recently joined that Rush created intelligent sounds for intelligent people.

Rush first achieved commercial success with its 1975 album, ‘Fly by Night,’ selling more than 100.000 copies. Later on, the band gained popularity in the ’80s and ’90s, with several albums charted in the United States and Canada. Especially their 1980 album ‘Permanent Waves‘ was criticized positively. It became the band’s most successful work at that time by becoming number three in Canada and United Kingdom.

Although Rush proved its success over the years, not everyone had positive criticism towards the band. They reflected a distinctive style, particularly in creating lyrics. Literature, especially science fiction, inspired the band regarding their lyrical style, which is not everyone’s favorite. Moreover, Geddy Lee’s vocals were not attractive to everyone even though it was suitable for Rush.

Recently, Stone Temple Pilots’ Robert DeLeo referred to this matter when the interviewer brought it up. According to DeLeo, Rush’s music was appropriate for intelligent people who would understand what they created. Furthermore, DeLeo claimed that the band also has many female fans. Since women are wiser than men, this is a sign that Rush’s fanbase is intelligent enough to comprehend their music.

Robert DeLeo explained in his words:

“It’s intelligent music that appeals to intelligent people. I don’t know, I think there’s a lot of girls there too, and usually, girls are more intelligent than guys.”

The interviewer mentioned that she started to listen to Rush later. According to her, people should have spared time for the band to understand what they had created. Thereupon, DeLeo agreed with her and added that everyone in music should have appreciated Rush.

The interviewer said:

“I was a late bloomer when it came to Rush. I originally was not drawn to them. It’s a smart band. You have to take time to listen to it and understand what’s happening; then you really appreciate what’s happening musically, just Geddy’s voice, wow.”

DeLeo continued:

“I think so. I think whether you’re a girl or boy, if you’re musical, then you appreciate a band like Rush.”

You can watch the entire interview below.