John Rutsey, founding member and original drummer of Rush, passed away on May 11, 2008. He was 55 years old. Apparently John died of a heart attack in his sleep.
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John Rutsey was the band\'s drummer from summer 1968 to July 1974. He became famous for playing on Rush’s 1973 single Not Fade Away/You Can\'t Fight It and their 1974 debut album \'Rush\'.
Soon after the relase of this album John decided to leave the group due to health concerns. The drummer suffered from diabetes and was unable to go on extended tours with the group.
Rutsey was replaced by drummer Neil Peart, which marked a turning point in the band’s sound towards progressive rock.