RUSH Announces the 2026 Fifty Something Tour
Rock legends RUSH are returning to the live stage in 2026 for a special headline tour titled “Fifty Something.” Co-founders Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson will lead the performances, joined by German drummer and composer Anika Nilles. The tour marks a heartfelt celebration of RUSH’s vast catalog, the enduring legacy of late drummer Neil Peart, and nearly five and a half decades of groundbreaking music.
A Historic Comeback with a Fresh Voice
Lee and Lifeson have not toured together since the final chapter of the R40 tour in 2015. The new run, set to begin on June 7, 2026, at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles, represents a rare reunion for the duo as they revisit songs that defined a generation of rock fans. Anika Nilles’s addition to the lineup brings a new rhythmic dimension to classic RUSH material, as the band aims to preserve the integrity of their complex arrangements while exploring fresh interpretations for today’s audiences.
Neil Peart’s Memory at the Center
A central thread of the tour is paying tribute to Neil Peart, whose lyricism and drumming helped shape RUSH’s sound. Lifeson and Lee have spoken about the challenge and privilege of honoring Peart while continuing the band’s tradition of musical exploration. The onstage tribute will be a recurring element in each night’s set, ensuring Peart’s contributions remain a living part of the show.
Set Lists and Night-to-Night Variety
RUSH plans multiple US, Canadian, and Mexican dates with two sets per night. In total, the band is drawing from roughly 35 songs, creating a dynamic setlist that will differ from city to city. Fans can expect a blend of enduring hits and fan favorites, offered in a format designed to showcase both the band’s intricate musicianship and their evolving live performance style.
The New Collaboration: Anika Nilles
Described by Lee as a musician with extraordinary versatility, Anika Nilles brings a modern energy to the classic RUSH framework. Her work with renowned artists and her own acclaimed solo projects position her as a compelling addition who can navigate the high-velocity rhythm sections RUSH is known for. The collaboration is seen as not only a tribute to the past but a bridge to new creative possibilities for the band.
Ticketing, Presales, and Offerings
RUSH has laid out a comprehensive presale program, including artist-specific and corporate pre-sales, with Citi, American Express, and Banamex providing opportunities for eligible fans in the US, Canada, and Mexico. A new VIP program and travel packages add to the fan experience, offering enhanced access and exclusive memorabilia. The general onsale begins on Friday, October 17, with varying local times depending on territory.
Why This Tour Matters Now
The Fifty Something tour arrives as a rare, respectful celebration of a catalog that altered rock history. RUSH’s disciplined musicianship, coupled with Lee’s and Lifeson’s ongoing creative curiosity, invites both longtime followers and newer listeners to engage with the band in a live setting that honors the past while embracing the future. The tour also signals a broader trend in classic rock where iconic names revisit their legacies with fresh collaborators and reimagined performances.
What Fans Should Know
Dates span seven cities across North America, including Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, Toronto, and Cleveland, with a Mexico City stop as part of the tour. The live format promises two sets per night, a rotating catalog of songs, and the chance to witness a storied rock partnership renewed through new energy and a celebrated guest drummer. For many fans, Fifty Something is more than a tour—it’s a reunion with a milestone in rock history.
Official Announcements and Extras
In addition to the live performances, RUSH released a 50-track anthology, Rush 50, spanning their career from early singles to live finales. This release complements the mood of the 2026 shows, offering a comprehensive experience for both newcomers and longtime devotees, and underscoring why RUSH’s influence endures across generations.
