Part two of our Bubba Bash 2026 recap drops us right back into the thick of it, with exclusive backstage access courtesy of Rush Rash correspondent Jillian Maryonovich of RushCon while Chaz and Schatz were… let’s say administratively indisposed.

This episode is anchored by deeply personal, moving conversations with John Wesley (Vertical Horizon, Porcupine Tree) and Ed Toth (The Doobie Brothers), as both musicians reflect on the profound impact Neil Peart had on their lives — not just as a drummer, lyricist, or philosopher, but as a friend, mentor, and fellow traveler.

John Wesley shares unforgettable stories of riding with Bubba, earning his trust on winding roads, and the bond forged through music, motorcycles, family, and long conversations about life. His memories — from celebrating Neil’s birthday to living by the mantra WWBD (What Would Bubba Do) — are heartfelt, raw, and deeply human.

Ed Toth traces his Rush origin story back to seventh grade, discovering Moving Pictures, receiving a handwritten postcard from Neil, and carrying those words with him for decades. His reflections capture what Rush means to generations of fans and musicians alike — a band that transcends music and becomes part of who you are. And a surprise interloper in the form of Jonny Dinklage, who diverts attention and steals the show along with it!

and we wrap it up with reflections from Tim Starace of YYNOT, one of the organizers, on how it all began, what it all means, and where it goes from here.

There are laughs, tears, unfiltered honesty, and a shared understanding that Rush isn’t just a band — it’s a compass. From backstage tears to life-altering moments, this episode is a powerful reminder of Neil Peart’s enduring legacy and the way his spirit continues to ride alongside us.

So grab a Macallan, find a comfortable chair, and settle in — this is Rush Rush at its most personal, most emotional, and most essential. No effin kiddin'.

DONATE - GET SOME STICKS IN THE GAME

Please join the cause by donating directly to Cedars-Sinai in memory of Neil:

support.cedars-sinai.edu/fundraiser/5043373

SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDS

Scratch your itch to hear RUSH music played live by going to check out any of these great RUSH Tribute Bands - these bands are keeping the community and the music alive - the most current, curated, and rockin' list of RUSH Tribute Bands in the world! Yeah!

⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here: ⁠Schatz's Scratch List⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠(And say it 5 times fast!)

GO BONELESS

Certified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The episode’s highlight is a full listen and discussion of "Runaway Train" from Geddy Lee’s 2000 solo album, "My Favorite Headache." Chaz and Schatz react in real time, dissecting the song’s dense lyrics, musical structure, and its unmistakable Rush DNA. They debate whether the track could have been a hidden Rush cut, praise its "Peartian" lyricism, and compare its style to both classic Rush and contemporary influences. The hosts also reflect on the challenges of solo projects, the evolution of Rush’s sound, and the enduring impact of Neil Peart’s writing.

As always, listeners can expect candid commentary, inside jokes, and thoughtful analysis as Chaz and Schatz celebrate Geddy’s artistry and muse on the future of Rush-related music.

SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDS

Scratch your itch to hear RUSH music played live by going to check out any of these great RUSH Tribute Bands - these bands are keeping the community and the music alive - the most current, curated, and rockin' list of RUSH Tribute Bands in the world! Yeah!

⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here: ⁠Schatz's Scratch List⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠(And say it 5 times fast!)

GO BONELESS

Certified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this very special part one of a Rush Rash episode, we welcome Jillian from RushCon, officially crowned the show’s Field Correspondent, reporting live(ish) from the 2026 Bubba Bash. Jillian delivers the goods: interviews, live recordings, backstage audio, after-party vibes, and the kind of behind-the-scenes reality you only get when musicians are running on fumes and love for the music.

The conversation digs into what these events really take — minimal rehearsal, high pressure, maximum respect for the Rush catalog — including Jillian’s chat with Tyler Warren about the weight of playing this music live. Chaz also reconnects with Greg Russell, swapping stories and reflecting on how these fan-driven events keep evolving year after year.

And then there’s that moment — Jillian meeting Neil Peart’s daughter, a powerful reminder of why these gatherings hit so hard for the Rush community. (Also confirmed: yes, she’s very tall.)

We go live with recordings of Driven, Natural Science and Working Man straight from the floor of the show.

It’s an episode full of travel chaos, Rush family vibes, exhausted joy, and the kind of stories that only happen when fans come together for the music that changed their lives.

No matter where they are in the world, Chaz and Schatz keep scratching the itch.

Now, let's got to the Keswick Theater in Glenside Pensylvania for the start of our 2026 coverage of Bubba Bash!

SCHATZ'S SCRATCH LIST - RUSH TRIBUTE BANDS

Scratch your itch to hear RUSH music played live by going to check out any of these great RUSH Tribute Bands - these bands are keeping the community and the music alive - the most current, curated, and rockin' list of RUSH Tribute Bands in the world! Yeah!

⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here: ⁠Schatz's Scratch List⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠(And say it 5 times fast!)

GO BONELESS

Certified boneless in the state of Ohio by the Boneless Podcasting Network. Go Boneless. Boneless Makes a Better Podcast.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.