Alex Lifeson at 60: “Playing Guitar has given me such a Wonderful Life”

Happy birthday, Alex Lifeson!

He was born on August 27, 1953 in British Columbia, Canada.

He currently ranks 98th in Rolling Stone Magazine's list of 100 greatest guitarists of all time and 3rd in the Guitar World Readers poll of 100 greatest guitarists.

According to ultimateclassicrock.com, Alex was interviewed a few months ago by Chile Peppers/Chickenfoot drummer Chad Smith, and he opened up about drummer Neil Peart‘s struggles following the death of his wife and daughter.

"It was a very difficult time,” Lifeson remembers. “I think he recognized that he’d gone through a terrible, difficult period where he didn’t play. There was a good reason why he couldn’t do it…and it was a long, hard climb to get back up.

That doesn’t account for all the turmoil that you’re feeling, and this horrific experience that he went through. How do you eliminate, or at least dilute that? We were there all along for him.”

Alex also opened up in an interview at guitarworld.com, talking about his own personal journey with his music, and expressing his appreciation for the life it's given him.

"I’ve been playing for 40 years, and I love it more than ever. When I sit down and play guitar, I melt into the instrument. I can play for hours by myself. Playing guitar has given me such a wonderful life, and I’m grateful for it."

Rush wrapped up their massive Clockwork Angels tour earlier this month.