The biggest and arguably best album Rush ever made is now 45 years old.
Released on Feb. 12, 1981, Moving Pictures marked the crucial turning point where the beloved Canadian trio fully shifted their focus from long-form progressive rock explorations towards shorter, more radio-friendly material.
Five Key Highlights About Moving Pictures
Rush’s Breakthrough Album
Moving Pictures emerged as Rush’s most commercially successful and critically acclaimed album. The release signified a pivotal moment in the band’s career, where they transitioned from being relatively obscure to achieving mainstream recognition. As music writer Michael Gallucci noted in a retrospective, “In a way, Rush’s career can be boiled down to this: Everything before Moving Pictures, and everything after Moving Pictures.” This album not only solidified their presence in the rock scene but also placed them in regular rotation on radio stations.
The Iconic “Limelight” Almost Didn’t Make It
The lead single from Moving Pictures, “Limelight,” peaked at No. 55 on the U.S. charts, while the album’s third single, “Tom Sawyer,” reached an impressive No. 44. “Tom Sawyer” has since become Rush’s signature song, but its creation was fraught with challenges. In a 2023 interview, bassist and vocalist Geddy Lee admitted, “It was a very difficult song to record. Every turn, something was going wrong… nothing was working. And, at one point, I thought, ‘Maybe we just forget this song and move on.'” Thankfully, the band persevered, resulting in one of their most beloved tracks.
The Art Behind the Album Cover
Rush’s longtime art director had a clear vision for the Moving Pictures album cover as soon as he heard the title. He envisioned a scene of people literally moving pictures, which took some time for the band to fully grasp. The final artwork cleverly conveys dual meanings: it showcases individuals interacting with large canvases while also evoking emotional responses from viewers. True to Rush’s style, the cover is filled with Easter eggs for fans to discover.
Turning the Tables on Aerosmith
The success of the Moving Pictures tour, which grossed over $4 million, marked a turning point for the band. Guitarist Alex Lifeson reflected on how the tour allowed them to overcome financial challenges. Years prior, while opening for Aerosmith, Rush had felt mistreated, lacking proper soundchecks and adequate equipment. During the tour with Aerosmith, Geddy Lee made it a point to ensure that Joe Perry received top-notch treatment, stating, “I’d never want you to feel the way I felt when we were touring with Aerosmith, and I was opening for you.”
Live Albums Inspired by Moving Pictures
Rush followed the release of Moving Pictures with their second live album, Exit… Stage Left, recorded during the subsequent tour. This album featured four tracks from Moving Pictures. In 2022, a 40th anniversary box set was released, which included a live album capturing performances from the Moving Pictures tour. Additionally, during their 2010-2011 Time Machine tour, Rush performed the entire Moving Pictures album live for the first time, which was documented in the concert film Time Machine 2011: Live in Cleveland.
Conclusion
Moving Pictures stands as a monumental achievement in Rush’s discography, marking a significant shift in their musical direction and solidifying their legacy in rock history. The album’s enduring impact is evident through its beloved tracks, iconic artwork, and the numerous live recordings that followed. As fans celebrate its 45th anniversary, it’s clear that Moving Pictures remains a timeless classic.
FAQs
What year was Moving Pictures released?
Moving Pictures was released on February 12, 1981.
What are some of the most popular songs from Moving Pictures?
The album features several iconic tracks, including “Tom Sawyer” and “Limelight,” both of which have become staples in Rush’s catalog.
How did Moving Pictures impact Rush’s career?
Moving Pictures marked a turning point for Rush, propelling them into mainstream success and establishing them as a significant force in rock music.
What is the significance of the album cover for Moving Pictures?
The album cover creatively represents the title’s concept, featuring people moving pictures while also invoking emotional responses from viewers, complete with hidden details for fans to explore.
