My Effin' Life Hardcover – 14 Nov. 2023

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and did it over a couple of days, I struggled to put it down once I’d started. I would say it’s one for the big Rush fans rather than a casual listener, mainly because he hasn’t done an awful lot outside of Rush, so understandably the band are the focus here.It starts in typical fashion covering his early life and he writes with a very appealing turn of phrase, often quite funny. There is one chapter devoted to telling the story of his parents who went through a harrowing ordeal, it’s necessary for his life story but not an easy read.Once past that it’s music and Rush all the way with the story of the struggle to get the band off the ground, keep it going and then ultimately achieving massive global success. For the geeks among us there is plenty of detail on recording the various albums, playing live and specific shows, life on the road, equipment used etc. He gives us a little bit of insight into his personal life through the years too, just enough to balance the story, which is nice.There are definitely a few things in there which surprised me in different ways, which I won’t spoil by detailing here. Suffice to say it’s a well rounded read with everything you want from a biography/memoir and it’s possibly made me admire him more than I already did.

While I must confess to being a life time Rush fan, nothing quite prepared me for this book, or should I say, tomb. I enjoyed reading every moment of this book, even if some of his family history was a little bit sad. I read the highs and lows of his life, from his mother and Father's internment in Nazi concentration camps. That being said, there were some very down to earth and honest opinions. From his struggles in the early years, to rising of his, and Rush's profile in the music business. To his family struggles with being away from home for long periods of time on the road. The recording of records and the progress towards being inducted to the Rock and Roll hall of fame. Its a very well written story, with some great tit-bits for the fans of Geddy Lee, and Rush. I would venture in my own humble opinion, that if you like memoirs, and even if your not a fan of Rush, this is a great read from start to finish. Wouldn't have missed reading it for the world. Worth everyone of the five stars I have given it. Well done, Mr Lee.

I very informative and personal book, which left me in tears.I really enjoyed Geddy sharing his family history, very thought provoking.As a Rush fan from the UK, it explained a lot about the groups rational on how and why tours happened.Having previously read all of Neil's books, to read how his family tragedies affected the rest of the group, and how they also coped during that time closes a circle for me.The final chapter, was heart-wrenching.A great book that Geddy should be rightly proud of.

A great book. Geddy is very honest and open about his life, and he writes very well. The section about his parents is very moving, and his love for his bandmates shines through. One of the best musicians autobiographies I've read.

Bought for the Mrs and she thoroughly enjoyed it.

Obviously it's a book for fans of Rush, but it sets itself apart from most rock musician biographies because of its style and content. The opening chapters discussing Geddy's youth could have walked a well-trodden formula of 'grew up here, went to this school, worked here" etc, but doesn't. it does much more than that and explored his and his family's history including a whole chapter on the Holocaust and his parents' incarceration in Nazi work camps and death camps. The account was well-researched by Geddy and he goes into detail about how he didn't just take his mother's work for it, he cross-checked and verified.His childhood years, punctuated with the sad death of his father when Geddy was a young boy are tackled, together with his mother's stoical character and ability to 'fight' all of which clearly shaped his character and future.These accounts could have made the book a bit dry - he even acknowledges that the content of the Holocaust chapter may not be every reader's cup of tea - but they don't. They add to what we continue to learn about Geddy, his motivations, drive for success and importance of family, family history and his roots.The discussions about Rush the band are almost a side show. Much of the chronology is well known to fans, but the insights into the 'Rush Lexicon' and his opinions of people he met along the way are new to me.What remains is a biography from one of the world's most talented bass guitarists and performers, who was part of one of the world's - and my personal favourite for decades - premier rock bands.I would also recommend Geddy's Big Bad Book of Bass Guitar, which has s similarly disarming style.11 out of 10 Mr Lee (or Weinrib)

Let me start this by saying I'm a life long Rush fan and have read so much about the band over the years at at least some of the books contents was not new to me. Geddy could have written a load of nonsense and I would still have bought the book. However, it's well written, informative and clearly a labour of love as well as probably catharic for Geddy to write this after Neil Peart'd death. The early chapters about Geddy's childhood and family (Chapt 3 in particular) were a really interesting read and amongst other titbits, it shed new light for me on Geddy's relationship with John Rutsey. However, the second half of the book fairly raced through the bands rise to international fame and acceptance which I personally found a little disappointing, but it wrapped up well describing how the band "retired" and then Neil's untimely passing. If you are a fan, buy it, if not, don't as TBH, it probably won't mean anything to you.

A fantastic read!!

A perfect book for those looking for a deeper connection with Rush's and Geddy's history.

Una lectura muy esperada, las memorias de Geddy Lee.Libro que todo fan de Rush debe leer. 👌🏽

I didn't know what to expect but I was overwhelmed by the overall quality of his book. This man writes beautifully and with a great an acute sense of humour. This is a fascinating account of a certainly not ordinary life. Geddy Lee is great lover of Canada and Quebec. And it shows all throughout the book. This is a most read for anybody's looking to get a better grasp of the musical scene of the last 50 years and most particularly the Canadian one. Thank you for your services Mr. Lee you make us all very proud.

Geddy Lee's "My Effin' Life" stands as a testament to both the legendary musician's iconic career and his deeply personal journey. In this candid and engaging biography, Lee invites readers into the heart and soul of his life, offering a glimpse into the highs and lows of a remarkable career in music.The narrative unfolds with a refreshing honesty, painting a vivid picture of Lee's experiences as the driving force behind one of rock's most enduring bands, Rush. From the exhilarating highs of stadium tours to the introspective moments of creative solitude, Lee navigates his musical odyssey with unwavering passion and dedication.What truly sets "My Effin' Life" apart is Lee's ability to intertwine the story of Rush's rise to stardom with his personal reflections, creating a harmonious blend that resonates with readers. His anecdotes and insights not only celebrate the music but also delve into the challenges and triumphs of a life dedicated to artistic expression.Lee's storytelling prowess shines as he delves into the intricacies of his musical genius, offering behind-the-scenes glimpses into the creation of iconic albums and the evolution of his craft. His passion for music reverberates through the pages, captivating readers and offering a profound appreciation for the artistry behind the melodies.Moreover, "My Effin' Life" is not solely about fame and music; it's a heartfelt exploration of Lee's growth as an individual. His reflections on life lessons, personal struggles, and moments of self-discovery add depth and authenticity to the narrative, making it a relatable and inspiring read for fans and newcomers alike.The book's candid nature, coupled with Lee's engaging prose, creates an immersive experience that transports readers through decades of musical history. Whether you're a die-hard Rush aficionado or simply someone intrigued by the life of a music icon, "My Effin' Life" is a captivating journey that leaves a lasting impression.In essence, Geddy Lee's autobiography is a compelling testament to the power of music, resilience, and the indelible mark of a true artist. "My Effin' Life" stands as a must-read memoir that resonates long after the final page.

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