After five years since Neil Peart’s passing, Canadian rock band Rush is reuniting for the “Fifty Something Tour” in summer 2026. Founding members Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson will be joined by German drummer Anika Nilles, who has been chosen to take over drum duties.
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A Tribute to Neil Peart
The decision to reform Rush was not made lightly. Lee and Lifeson spoke candidly about the emotional journey that led them to this point. Lee shared that after extensive “soul searching,” they realized they missed performing together and wanted to honor Peart’s legacy by continuing to share their music with fans.
The “Fifty Something Tour” will span 12 dates across seven cities in North America, including Los Angeles, Mexico City, Fort Worth, Chicago, New York City, Toronto, and Cleveland. Each performance will feature two sets drawn from a rotating selection of 35 classic Rush songs, ensuring a unique experience for attendees.
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Introducing Anika Nilles
Anika Nilles, born in Aschaffenburg, Germany, in 1983, has been making waves in the music world with her exceptional drumming skills. She began playing drums at the age of six and later pursued a degree in popular music from the Popakademie Baden-Württemberg in Mannheim. Nilles gained international recognition through her YouTube channel, where she showcased her original compositions and drumming techniques.
Her debut album, Pikalar, released in 2017, was followed by For a Colorful Soul in 2020 and False Truth in 2025. Nilles has also toured with renowned guitarist Jeff Beck and leads her own band, Nevell. She has been recognized as a rising star in the drumming community, earning accolades such as “#1 Rising Star” in DRUM! magazine in 2015 and 2016.
Fans’ Reactions
The announcement of Nilles joining Rush has been met with enthusiasm from fans. A video of Nilles performing her track “FouFou” from her album False Truth was shared by Tama Drums, showcasing her technique, fluidity, and endurance. Comments praised her control, artistry, and how the performance built momentum in ways that felt both fresh and respectful.
While some fans expressed reservations, acknowledging that Neil Peart is irreplaceable, many view Nilles’s appointment as a continuation of Rush’s legacy rather than an attempt to replace Peart. They appreciate her unique style and the band’s decision to move forward in a way that honors their past.
Support from Peart’s Family
The Peart family has also expressed their support for the upcoming tour. Neil’s widow, Carrie Nuttall-Peart, and daughter, Olivia, have shown optimism about this new chapter for the band and are excited about the future of Rush.
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Conclusion
Rush’s decision to reunite for the “Fifty Something Tour” and introduce Anika Nilles as their new drummer marks a significant moment in the band’s history. While the absence of Neil Peart is deeply felt, the band’s commitment to honoring his legacy and continuing their musical journey demonstrates their resilience and passion for their craft. Fans can look forward to a celebration of over 50 years of Rush’s music, filled with nostalgia, innovation, and the unmistakable spirit of the band.