One day during my freshman year in high school in 1990, my science teacher brought his awesome stereo system to class. Using loud music, a mirror and a laser, he would put on a small laser light show every year for his freshmen students. Every year, they loved it (as upperclass Physics students, it got a bit ho hum). Suffice it to say, the stereo never left the room. Before school and after school he'd crank his favorite music. Being a physics nerd as well as a music lover, I spent a lot of time there. When Roll the Bones came out, he started playing it, and later brought in Chronicle. I loved them both instantly. Mike influenced me in many ways over those four years (and beyond), not the least of which is my taste in music.
My college roommate turned best friend didn't pay much attention when I played Rush in college, but five months ago, she married a guy who is a HUGE Rush fan and attended her first concert last month. She called me during Neil's drum solo to tell me how much she was loving it.
I have yet to attend a concert myself. Not by choice, mind you--I am the only Rush fan I know for nearly 200 miles and I can't drive!
