Rush Returns to the Stage: Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson Launch Fifty Something Tour

Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson of the legendary rock band Rush reunited for their first live performances in 11 years, opening the “Fifty Something” tour on June 7, 2026, at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California. The tour marks a significant return for the core members, who are joined by drummer Anika Nilles and keyboardist Loren Gold to honor the band’s legacy and the memory of late drummer Neil Peart.

How is the Band Honoring Neil Peart?

The production incorporates Neil Peart into the live experience through digital artistry. According to Billboard, Peart appears in various digital renderings throughout the show, with illustrations of his face appearing in cloud banks, rock faces, and finally, as a depiction of him drumming in the cosmos. Geddy Lee has stated that the band intends to learn approximately 40 songs for the tour, with about 40% of the setlist changing from night to night to keep the performances dynamic.

What Does the Setlist Include?

The opening night featured a 24-song set that balanced classic hits with rarely performed deep cuts. The band performed “Time Stand Still” with guest vocalist Aimee Mann, marking the first time the 1987 track has been played live with her. Other highlights included:

• Rarely aired tracks: “By-Tor & the Snow Dog,” played for the first time since 2004, alongside “Freewill,” “Vital Signs,” and “La Villa Strangiato,” which had not been performed since 2011.
• Staple hits: The set included “Tom Sawyer,” “Limelight,” and “The Spirit of Radio.”
• Extended works: The band performed the 2112 suite, condensed into three sections.

What is the Tour Schedule?

Following the initial run of shows at the Kia Forum, the tour is scheduled to move internationally. According to the band’s current itinerary, the tour will head to Mexico City on June 18 and June 20, 2026. The Fifty Something tour is booked through April 10, 2027, with a final date scheduled in Helsinki.

Initial Critical Reception

The tour’s debut received mixed but generally positive reviews regarding the band’s energy and technical execution. The Los Angeles Times noted that while the band appeared exhilarated, there were minor technical synchronization issues between the video screens and the live performance. Despite these first-night adjustments, the report highlighted the technical proficiency of drummer Anika Nilles, particularly noting her performance on the complex track “La Villa Strangiato.”

Key Takeaways

• Personnel: Rush core members Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson are joined by Anika Nilles on drums and Loren Gold on keyboards.
• Production: The show features a rotating setlist of roughly 40 songs and digital tributes to the late Neil Peart.
• Duration: The Fifty Something tour is currently scheduled to run through April 2027.