Rush Returns to the Road with the Fifty Something Tour
Rush co-founders Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson have confirmed a rare live return, launching the Fifty Something tour next year to celebrate a half-century of the beloved Canadian rock band. The 12-date, seven-city run is also a tribute to their late drummer and lyricist Neil Peart, whose memory continues to inspire fans and fellow musicians alike. The show is set to begin June 7 at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles, the very venue where Rush played their final show with Peart in August 2015.
New Chapter, New Collaborator: Anika Nilles Joins the Band
One of the most compelling elements of this reunion is the recruitment of German drummer Anika Nilles. At 41, Nilles has built a reputation for mastering complex time signatures and virtuosic precision, a natural fit for Rush’s intricate rhythms. She will join the duo for the tour, bringing a fresh voice to a catalog that demands both power and nuance. Lee described Nilles as “an incredible drummer and musician who is adding another chapter to our story,” signaling an approach that blends Rush’s classic sound with new energy.
Why Now? A Reflection on the Band’s Legacy
Lee has been candid about the internal debate surrounding a Rush reunion without Peart. In public discussions with Lifeson, Lee noted ongoing soul-searching and a desire to celebrate “50-something years of Rush music.” Lifeson had previously suggested there would be no rebirth without a new member, but the decision to tour reflects a broader wish to honor the band’s enduring legacy while acknowledging life’s changing dynamics. Even high-profile admirers, including Paul McCartney, encouraged the band to perform again, underscoring the momentum behind the Fifty Something tour.
The tour’s format will feature two sets per show, drawn from a pool of 35 songs. This approach ensures a broad cross-section of Rush’s greatest hits and fan favorites, offering longtime listeners and new audiences alike a rich retrospective of the band’s evolution. In a nod to flexibility, Rush plans to welcome additional backing musicians to expand their sound and keep performances engaging as the group navigates the realities of modern touring.
Family Backing and Fan Support
Neil Peart’s family has given their blessing to the Fifty Something tour. Carrie Nuttall-Peart and daughter Olivia issued a joint statement praising the project as a meaningful tribute to Neil’s legacy as both a drummer and lyricist. The endorsement from Peart’s immediate circle reinforces the tour’s intent: to celebrate the band’s history while honoring the memory of their late colleague with respect and enthusiasm.
What to Expect on the Tour
Fans can anticipate a meticulously curated live experience that honors Rush’s heritage while embracing a refreshed sound. Anika Nilles’s presence, alongside Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson, is expected to bring new textures to classic Rush arrangements. The setlist will be drawn from a rich catalog that spans decades, ensuring a balanced mix of cherished anthems and deeper cuts. With presales beginning October 13 and general on-sales October 17, tickets are anticipated to move quickly as fans worldwide prepare to celebrate a milestone in rock history.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Five Decades
The Fifty Something tour represents more than a comeback; it is a communal celebration of Rush’s enduring influence. For fans who have followed Lee, Lifeson, and Peart since Rush’s early days, the tour offers a chance to relive iconic moments and discover new facets of a band that helped shape progressive rock. As the musicians prepare to take the stage once more, they do so with a message of gratitude, resilience, and a shared love of music that has stood the test of time.
