# In 1977, Rush dressed for a prog-rock epic. Their tourmates were embarrassed for them

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/in-1977-rush-dressed-for-a-prog-rock-epic-their-tourmates-were-embarrassed-for-them/
- Published: 2026-11-01T20:18:47+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-01T21:22:12+00:00
- Original publisher: Far Out
- Original article: https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/1977-rush-dressed-for-a-prog-rock-epic-their-tourmates-were-embarrassed/
- Topics: Entertainment, Music

## Key points

- Rush made ‘Xanadu’ an 11-minute progressive-rock epic.
- UFO’s tourmates mocked the band’s kimono-inspired stage clothes.
- The track was recorded in one complete take at Rockfield.

## Summary

Rush’s 11-minute song ‘Xanadu’ brought together elaborate fantasy, extended instrumental passages and a theatrical look during the band’s progressive-rock period. The story follows a traveller whose quest for immortality turns into a nightmare, reflecting Rush’s willingness to pursue ambitious ideas despite pressure for more radio-friendly material.

Their kimonos drew teasing from tourmates UFO: singer Geddy Lee recalled finding fuzzy white slippers nailed to the stage and being mocked as “Glee”. Fans joined in with signs quoting the song, while the musicianship was harder to dismiss: guitarist Alex Lifeson said the band recorded the track in one complete take at Rockfield, after rehearsing and playing it live. Birds recorded outside the Welsh studio feature in its introduction.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.