Rush Announces Extensive Reunion Tour, Reflects on Legacy and Friendship
After the 2020 passing of drummer Neil Peart, the future of Canadian progressive rock legends Rush seemed uncertain. However, bassist and vocalist Geddy Lee and guitarist Alex Lifeson have announced an extensive reunion tour, dubbed the “Fifty Something” tour, extending into 2027 with dates across North America, South America, Europe and the UK.
A Bond Forged Over Six Decades
The reunion is rooted in the enduring friendship between Lee and Lifeson, who first met in junior high school. “When we first met in junior high school, we sat beside each other, and we laughed,” Lee recalled. “He’s the funniest guy I’ve ever known, and I make him laugh, too.” Their connection, spanning 60 years, proved to be the catalyst for revisiting their musical partnership.
From Tribute to Reunion
The initial spark for a potential reunion came after a performance at the Taylor Hawkins tribute concert in 2022 with the Foo Fighters. The positive energy and camaraderie among musicians backstage prompted them to consider touring again. Lee stated, “That was an incredibly emotional day – and there was such an easy, happy, loving environment backstage between the musicians that, when we finished our set, we gathered with a bunch of them backstage, all of them encouraging us to go back on tour.”
Finding a New Drummer
Replacing the iconic Neil Peart presented a significant challenge. Recognized as one of the most technically skilled and distinctive rock drummers, Peart as well served as the band’s primary lyricist. The band ultimately chose Anika Nilles, a 42-year-old German drummer recommended by Lee’s bass tech after she toured with Jeff Beck. Nilles underwent a week of auditions in Canada.
Preserving Peart’s Legacy Whereas Embracing New Talent
Lifeson emphasized the importance of honoring Peart’s musical arrangements while allowing Nilles to contribute her own style. “It has to start there,” he said. “They have to be true to the arrangements, because that’s the expectation from the fans. But we don’t place any restrictions on her. When she is comfortable and confident in the arrangements, she’s free to enhance them with her own spirit.” Lee added that Nilles quickly grasped the nuances of Peart’s drumming style, overcoming initial challenges to “nail it” during rehearsals.
A Friendship That Endured
The band’s longevity and ability to navigate creative differences are attributed to their strong friendship. Lee and Lifeson have known each other so long that even Peart, who joined the band in 1974, was affectionately referred to as “the new guy.” Their willingness to adapt and support each other’s musical evolution has been key to their success.
Tour Dates and Details
The “Fifty Something” tour began in North America and will extend to South America, Europe, and the UK in 2027. Loren Gold, a keyboardist who has worked with The Who and Chicago, will also join the touring lineup. Keyboardist Loren Gold, known for his work with The Who and Chicago, will join the touring lineup. Rush’s European tour begins February 19, 2027, at La Défense arena in Paris, with UK dates scheduled in Glasgow, Manchester, and London. More information can be found at rush.com.