After a decade, long hiatus and five years since the heartbreaking loss of their legendary drummer Neil Peart, Canadian rock icons Rush are gearing up to return to the stage with a fresh face behind the kit. The band has announced their highly anticipated “Fifty Something” reunion tour, set to kick off in June 2026, and with it, a new drummer: the exceptionally talented German musician Anika Nilles.
Honoring A Legend, Embracing The Future
Neil Peart was more than just Rush’s drummer; he was the band’s lyricist and a creative force whose influence defined their sound for over four decades. His passing in 2020 from glioblastoma left a void many thought impossible to fill. However, founding members Geddy Lee (bass and vocals) and Alex Lifeson (guitar) felt a deep desire to honor Peart’s legacy by bringing Rush’s music back to life for their 50th anniversary.
While no one can replace Neil, the band believes that Anika Nilles embodies the spirit, skill, and passion necessary to carry the torch forward. Nilles, known for her intricate rhythms and dynamic style, has built a reputation as one of the world’s leading drummers, touring with guitar legend Jeff Beck and releasing acclaimed solo work. Her technical mastery and expressive playing make her an ideal fit to join Rush on this historic journey.
The “Fifty Something” Tour A Celebration of Legacy
The tour will feature 12 dates across seven major cities, including Los Angeles, Fort Worth, Mexico City, Chicago, New York, Toronto, and Cleveland. Each city will host two-night engagements in the intimate “An Evening With Rush” format, offering fans a unique and immersive experience with two full sets per show.
Notably, the tour will open at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles, the same venue where Rush played their last show with Peart in 2015, adding a poignant full-circle moment to the reunion.
Keeping Neil’s Spirit Alive
Geddy Lee shared, “Neil was irreplaceable, but keeping his spirit alive through music is exactly what he would have wanted.” With this sentiment at the core, Rush’s reunion is both a tribute and a fresh start, blending classic hits with new interpretations that reflect their evolution as musicians and as a band.
Fans can expect a powerful mix of Rush’s timeless catalog and the vibrant energy Anika brings, making this reunion not just a look back, but a bold step forward.
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