Rush’s “Fifty Something” Tour Makes Emotional Comeback with New Drummer Anika Nilles

On June 7, 2026, legendary rock band Rush launched its highly anticipated “Fifty Something” tour at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California, marking their first live performances since 2015 and their first tour without late drummer Neil Peart, who passed away in 2020. The concert, described as an “emotional tour kickoff,” featured new drummer Anika Nilles, whose performance was hailed as a “dazzling” addition to the band’s legacy.

The Emotional Reunion

The tour’s opening night was a nostalgic celebration for fans, with Rush delivering a setlist that included their 1977 hit “Xanadu” as the first song—a first in the band’s history. The show featured a visually striking video projection depicting a “haunted retirement home,” packed with references to the band’s extensive catalog. Attendees reportedly “nearly wept” at the sight of founding members Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson on stage, alongside Nilles, who took the helm as the band’s new drummer.

Anika Nilles: A Star in the Making

Nilles, who joined Rush in 2023, quickly became a focal point