RUSH: Fifty Something Tour Honors Neil Peart's Legacy with New Drummer Anika Nilles
Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson, members of the iconic band RUSH, are embarking on a tour under the band's name following the passing of drummer Neil Peart in 2020. The tour, titled "Fifty Something," is scheduled for 2026 and 2027, and the band has enlisted Anika Nilles as their new drummer with the approval of Peart's family. Despite initial reservations, Lee and Lifeson have decided to continue as RUSH, acknowledging their long history with the band.
In a recent interview with Classic Rock magazine, Lee expressed the band's dilemma of carrying on without Peart and the decision to use the RUSH name for the tour. The band, which traces its roots back to the high school days of Lifeson and Lee, has a rich history that predates Peart's involvement. The early years of RUSH saw different lineup changes before Peart joined the band and became an integral part of their sound.
Lee and Lifeson are mindful of Peart's legacy and the impact of his absence on the band. They recognize the significance of honoring Peart during their performances and are working on incorporating tributes to him in their sets. The band recently performed with Nilles at the Juno Awards in Canada, marking the beginning of their reunion tour. Tickets for the tour are now available for purchase.
In conclusion, RUSH, with Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson at the helm, are gearing up for a tour that pays homage to their storied past while embracing the future with a new drummer. The band's decision to continue under the RUSH name reflects their dedication to the music they have created over the past five decades and their commitment to honoring the memory of Neil Peart. Fans can expect a blend of classic RUSH songs and heartfelt tributes to the late drummer during the upcoming tour.