After years of speculation and heartfelt mourning following the passing of legendary drummer Neil Peart, Rush fans can rejoice! Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson have announced a reunion tour slated for 2026. The ‘Fifty Something’ tour will not only celebrate the illustrious career of Rush but also honor the life and legacy of Peart. Joining the iconic duo is Anika Nilles, a German composer and producer celebrated for her innovative drumming style and previous work with Jeff Beck. This highly anticipated tour promises to be an emotional and exhilarating experience for all Rush enthusiasts.
The decision to tour again was far from easy, particularly given the irreplaceable void left by Neil Peart. However, the desire to celebrate their music and the unwavering support from Peart’s family fueled Lee and Lifeson’s resolve. This article delves into the details of the tour, the selection of Anika Nilles, and what fans can expect from this momentous reunion.
A Difficult Decision: The Return of Rush
The prospect of a Rush reunion without Neil Peart seemed unimaginable to many. Peart’s exceptional talent and profound lyrics were integral to the band’s identity. His passing in January 2020 left a void that Lee and Lifeson initially believed could not be filled. However, the healing power of music and the encouragement from those closest to Peart ultimately paved the way for this reunion.
In a statement, Lee acknowledged the weight of the decision:
It was a very sad time, and it took time for us to even contemplate… And how do you replace someone who is irreplaceable?
Despite the challenges, Lee and Lifeson began casually jamming on Rush songs, rediscovering the joy and connection that music provided. This led to the realization that celebrating Rush’s music was a fitting tribute to their fallen brother.
Anika Nilles: The New Chapter in Rush’s Legacy
The selection of a new drummer was a daunting task. Replacing Neil Peart was never the intention; rather, the goal was to find someone who could honor his style while bringing their unique perspective to the music. Anika Nilles emerged as the ideal candidate, recommended by Lee’s bass tech, John “Skully” McIntosh. Nilles, known for her complex rhythms and innovative drumming techniques, had previously toured with Jeff Beck and released several solo albums.
Lee described the selection process as an experiment:
No matter who the drummer is, they all have their own perception of what it’s like to play a Rush song, and they may not line up with the way we play Rush songs. So whoever we were going to choose was going to be difficult, and there was going to be a translation.
After a private jam session in Canada, it became clear that Nilles possessed the necessary skill and sensibility to complement Lee and Lifeson’s playing.
The Fifty Something Tour: A Celebration of Rush
The ‘Fifty Something’ tour is described as a celebration of Rush’s music, legacy, and the life of Neil Peart. The tour is scheduled to kick off with two nights at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles on June 7 and 9, 2026, a poignant location as it was the venue for Rush’s final show. The tour will then travel to Mexico City, Fort Worth, Chicago, New York, Toronto, and conclude in Cleveland on September 17.
Peart’s widow, Carrie Nuttall-Peart, and his daughter, Olivia, have given their full support to the tour. In a joint statement, they expressed their excitement:
We are thrilled to support the Fifty Something tour, celebrating a band whose music has resonated and inspired fans for generations, and to honor Neil’s extraordinary legacy as both a drummer and lyricist.
What to Expect: A Night with Rush
Geddy Lee has assured fans that the tour will be a true celebration of Rush’s music, with a setlist spanning their extensive catalog. The band plans to rehearse approximately 35-36 songs, ensuring variety from night to night. While marathon three-hour sets may not be feasible, Lee has confirmed that the shows will exceed two hours in length. A keyboard player may also be hired to add depth to the sound and allow Lee and Lifeson more freedom on stage.
In addition to the music, the tour will include tributes to Neil Peart. Lee has stated that the band will honor Peart “at least a couple of times during the show in our own way” every night, ensuring that his presence is felt throughout the performance.
Ticket Information and Presales
Tickets for the ‘Fifty Something’ tour will be available through various presales and general onsale dates. Fans can register for the Rush artist presale on the band’s official website before October 13. Citi and American Express cardholders will also have access to exclusive presales in the U.S. and Canada, respectively. General onsale ticketing begins on October 17 for the U.S. and Canada, and October 16 for the Mexico dates.
Detailed ticket information and presale access can be found on Ticketmaster and SeatGeek. Be sure to check the specific dates and times for each city to secure your spot at this historic event.
A New Chapter for Rush and Their Fans
The Rush reunion tour in 2026 marks a new chapter in the band’s storied career. While the absence of Neil Peart will undoubtedly be felt, the addition of Anika Nilles brings a fresh and exciting dynamic to the music. The ‘Fifty Something’ tour is not just a series of concerts; it is a celebration of Rush’s enduring legacy and a heartfelt tribute to a beloved friend and bandmate.
As Geddy Lee poignantly stated:
Our idea was not to try to be Rush 2.0… [We want] to pay homage to our music, pay homage to our lost brother, represent the songs — and celebrate the songs.
Fans around the world eagerly anticipate the opportunity to witness this extraordinary event and share in the celebration of Rush’s timeless music.
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