Geddy Lee’s contributions to rock music are well-documented, but some chapters of his career remain surprisingly overlooked. Beyond his monumental work with Rush, Lee explored creative paths that showcased his versatility and passion for music. One of those ventures involved stepping outside the familiar boundaries of his iconic band.
In the early 2000s, Lee’s creative energy was channeled into new directions. He released his debut solo album in 2000, marking a bold departure from Rush’s signature sound. This period also saw him engaging in collaborations that revealed a different side of his artistry.
Among these ventures was a lesser-known yet intriguing project—a supergroup he co-founded in 2006. Despite its promise, this effort has largely faded from memory, leaving fans to wonder about its story and impact.
A Forgotten Attempt at a Supergroup
The late 1980s through the early 2000s saw the rise of many iconic supergroups. Bands like Audioslave, Chickenfoot, and Bad Company delivered unforgettable music that cemented their place in rock history. These collaborations often brought together powerhouse talents, creating magic that stood the test of time.
Amid this trend, Geddy Lee and his longtime friend and bandmate Alex Lifeson also dabbled in the supergroup phenomenon. Their effort, however, didn’t receive the same widespread recognition as their contemporaries. Despite their impressive musical pedigree, the project remained under the radar for many fans.
In 2006, the duo formed Big Dirty Band to contribute to the soundtrack of Trailer Park Boys: The Movie. While it was a unique collaboration tied to a cultural phenomenon, the group’s impact didn’t leave as strong a mark as other supergroups of the era.
A Canadian Collaboration for the Ages
Big Dirty Band brought together an impressive lineup of Canadian talent. Members from Big Wreck, Three Days Grace, Die Mannequin, and The Tea Party joined forces, creating a group rooted in the country’s rich musical heritage. Their collaboration highlighted the diversity and strength of Canada’s rock scene.
The band contributed to the soundtrack of Trailer Park Boys: The Movie alongside other Canadian icons. Swollen Members, April Wine, Wintersleep, Rough Trade, and The Tragically Hip all played a role in shaping the film’s musical identity. This mix of artists added a distinctively Canadian flavor to the project.
Interestingly, Rush also made its mark on the soundtrack CD released in 2006. While Big Dirty Band stood on its own, the mention of Rush was a nod to the enduring influence of Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson, even in their side ventures.
The Brief Life of Big Dirty Band
The origins of Big Dirty Band are tied directly to the Canadian mockumentary sitcom Trailer Park Boys. Specifically, the band took its name from the movie Trailer Park Boys: Countdown to The Big Dirty. Formed as a one-off project, the group’s purpose was as unique as its name.
Big Dirty Band recorded a music video for their cover of Bobby Fuller Four’s “I Fought The Law.” They performed the song live only once during the film’s premiere before disbanding. Despite its short-lived existence, the band left a memorable, albeit fleeting, mark.
This brief venture marked the end of Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson’s experiment with the supergroup. Although their time with Big Dirty Band was limited, the project showcased their willingness to explore new musical collaborations. Below, you can check out the music video for “I Fought The Law” on YouTube.