For die-hard rock fans and lifelong followers of the band, this is a moment of both reflection and renewal. The iconic Canadian rock group Rush — co-founded by Geddy Lee (bass/keys/vocals) and Alex Lifeson (guitar/vocals) — are reopening a major chapter in their story. Their upcoming 2026 tour, appropriately titled the “Fifty Something Tour”, is a celebration of over five decades of music, and a tribute to their late drummer and lyricist Neil Peart, who passed away in 2020.
What makes this return especially compelling is how Lee and Lifeson describe it: not simply a tour, but a rekindling of passion after a period of soul-searching. In their own words:
“It’s been over 10 years since Alex and I have performed the music of Rush alongside our fallen bandmate and friend Neil.”
“And so, … after all that has gone down since that last show, Alex and I have done some serious soul searching and come to the decision that we fing miss it, and that it’s time for a celebration of 50-something years of Rush music.”
Here’s what you need to know about this major announcement — and why it matters.
Why now, and what’s different this time
After the band’s last major run (the R40 tour concluded in 2015), and following Neil Peart’s death in 2020, many believed Rush had closed that chapter for good.
But Lee and Lifeson, having taken time to reflect, found themselves eager to reconnect, to perform again, and to honor everything the band has achieved.
With that intention, they announced a headline tour for 2026: originally planned as a smaller set of dates, but quickly expanded amid overwhelming demand.
Key differences in this return:
This is their first major tour together in over a decade, and first since Neil’s passing.
They’ve introduced a new drummer, Anika Nilles, a German-born musician, composer and producer, known for her solo work and drumming with artists including Jeff Beck.
Instead of simply replaying old setlists, they’ve promised a “plethora” of songs drawn from across their decades-long catalogue, and the idea of additional musicians to enrich the live experience.
The announcement and fan response
In a public video message, Lee and Lifeson thanked the fan-base for its overwhelming support. They also specifically acknowledged how welcoming fans have been toward Anika Nilles:
“The way you guys have welcomed Anika into the Rush family has been very heart-warming … I know that she’s very appreciative of that. … we’re even more excited to get back on stage … and to go through the plethora of songs that we’re planning.”
Indeed, major media outlets reported that the band was “blown away” by the response to their announcement.
For her part, Anika Nilles shared her gratitude and excitement on social media: she thanked longtime Rush fans for their warm welcome, and extended a greeting to newer listeners stepping into the “Rush universe.” This marks an important moment of inclusion and transition.
Tour details: The “Fifty Something” Tour
Here are some of the headline facts about the tour:
The tour kicks off on June 7, 2026 at the Kia Forum (Inglewood/Los Angeles).
Originally announced with fewer dates, the band added 17 more cities, bringing the total number of shows to roughly 40.
Set lists will draw from around 35 songs, including hits and rarities from their catalogue.
The tour spans across the U.S. and Canada, and covers major venues including multiple nights in major hubs (e.g., New York, Toronto) and well-known arenas.
Why this matters
Legacy and continuity: For a band whose identity has been strongly linked to Neil Peart’s drumming and lyricism, this tour represents a respectful continuation of that legacy — not a replacement, but a tribute and evolution.
Rush.com
Fan connection: Lee and Lifeson’s gratitude suggests they understand how much fans mean to this story — and the outpouring of excitement confirms that Rush’s music remains deeply meaningful.
New energy: With Anika Nilles in the line-up, the concerts promise fresh dynamics. She brings a different perspective while honoring the complexity and rhythmic precision that Rush is known for.
A celebration, not just a tour: The “Fifty Something” title says it all — this is about celebrating 50+ years of music, acknowledging the past, embracing the present, and looking ahead.
What to keep an eye on
Set-list variations: Since they’re planning 35 songs and multiple nights in certain cities, fans should anticipate unique live experiences per show.
Support musicians: The band hinted at possibly adding “another musician or two” to expand their live sound, meaning there may be surprises.
Ticketing and demand: With many initial dates already sold out, securing tickets may require early registration for pre-sales.
Emotional tone: While it’s a lively rock show, the emotional undercurrent — remembering Neil Peart, honoring the past — is very much part of the narrative.
In short: Rush is back, but in a thoughtful, intentional way. It’s not merely nostalgia—it’s a mission to reconnect, to celebrate, and to push forward with respect. For fans old and new, this tour offers a chance to experience the band’s legacy live once more, while also recognizing that while the past can’t be replicated, it can be celebrated.