RUSH Back with Anika Nilles in 2026 “Fifty Something” Tour: How Geddy Lee & Alex Lifeson Bring
RUSH returns in 2026 with legendary members Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson, and new drummer Anika Nilles. The “Fifty Something” tour celebrates their legacy, honors Neil Peart, and charts a bold path forward. Get tour dates, ticket info & inside scoop.
Introduction: A Shock (and a Promise) — RUSH Returns
When fans heard the news on October 6, 2025, jaws dropped: RUSH is back. After more than a decade off the road, and following the tragic passing of drummer and lyricist Neil Peart in January 2020, founding members Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson have decided to return to the stage with a new collaborator, Anika Nilles, for a 2026 North American trek. This bold move—equal parts tribute and reinvention—is stirring excitement, skepticism, and deep emotion in the prog-rock world.
In this SEO-driven deep dive, we unpack how and why RUSH is hitting the road again, explore Anika Nilles’s journey into this monumental role, and lay out everything fans need to know about tickets, setlists, and expectations for the “Fifty Something” Tour.
Table of Contents
- The Road Not Yet Taken: Why RUSH Stopped Touring
- The Decision to Return: Soul Searching in the Wake of Loss
- Enter Anika Nilles: From YouTube to the Drum Throne
- The “Fifty Something” Tour: Dates, Logistics & Highlights
- Ticketing, Presales & VIP Access — What You Need to Know
- What to Expect Live: Setlists, Tributes, and Surprises
- The Legacy Lives On: Peart’s Enduring Voice in 2026
- Final Thoughts: A New Chapter in Prog-Rock History
1. The Road Not Yet Taken: Why RUSH Stopped Touring
The R40 Tour and Its End
RUSH’s final full-scale tour was the “R40 Tour”, which concluded on August 1, 2015, at The Forum in Los Angeles. That show was initially pitched as a celebration and partial farewell, not necessarily a permanent end. (BLABBERMOUTH.NET) After that, Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson went on hiatus from touring as RUSH, though they occasionally collaborated in side projects. (Ultimate Classic Rock)
The Loss of Neil Peart
Neil Peart, the band’s virtuosic drummer and principal lyricist, had already curtailed extensive touring due to physical constraints by R40’s end. (Ultimate Classic Rock) In January 2020, Peart passed away after a battle with glioblastoma, deeply affecting both his bandmates and their fanbase. (Deadline) His absence left a void that many believed would never be filled.
Lifeson’s Hesitancy & Health Challenges
In the years since Peart’s passing, Geddy Lee expressed interest in revisiting RUSH’s catalog, while Alex Lifeson remained more cautious. Lifeson’s own health issues (including digestive problems and recovery from surgery) gave him reason to hesitate. (The Washington Post) Yet, gradually, Musicians’ impulses and fan encouragement nudged them back into the realm of possibility.
2. The Decision to Return: Soul Searching in the Wake of Loss
“We Fucking Miss It”
In the official press release, Lee didn’t sugarcoat the emotional core behind the reunion: “It’s been over 10 years … Alex and I … have done some serious soul searching … we fucking miss it.” (BLABBERMOUTH.NET) That raw honesty frames this tour not as a nostalgic cash grab but as a heartfelt re-engagement with what made RUSH essential.
Blessing from Peart’s Family
Critical to the reunion’s legitimacy was the approval from Neil Peart’s widow Carrie Nuttall-Peart and daughter Olivia Peart, who released a joint statement endorsing the “Fifty Something” tour. They emphasized that Neil’s legacy, both musical and lyrical, remains singular and deeply cherished. (BLABBERMOUTH.NET) Their support gives the tour emotional weight and moral alignment.
A Private Reveal in Cleveland
The reunion announcement was revealed at a secret event at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, where Lee and Lifeson appeared in a casual Q&A format before unexpectedly dropping the news. (Consequence) The Cleveland venue was no accident — the city was pivotal in RUSH’s early U.S. exposure via Cleveland radio’s support of “Working Man.” (Consequence)
Relearning, Rehearsing, Reconnecting
Rather than rush into touring, Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson quietly began jamming for themselves. As Lee phrased it, “the more we started rehearsing … the more it felt like playing those songs dispelled the dark clouds.” (Deadline) They worked through hundreds of hours of material before inviting others — like Anika Nilles — into the fold.
3. Enter Anika Nilles: From YouTube to the Drum Throne
Early Life & Musical Foundations
Born May 29, 1983, in Aschaffenburg, Germany, Anika Nilles hails from a musical family — multiple drummers in her kin circle. (Loudwire) She began playing drums at age six, and while she initially followed a more traditional path (studying social work), her passion for drumming never waned. (Loudwire)
Rise via YouTube and Solo Projects
Her breakthrough came on YouTube in the early 2010s, when a clip of her original “Wild Boy” began circulating among drummers and prog fans. (Ultimate Classic Rock) Over the years, she released solo albums such as Pikilar (2017), For a Colorful Soul (2020), Opuntia (2022), and False Truth (2025). (Loudwire) Her work spans instrumental prog, fusion, and rhythmic experimentation. (Loudwire)
Educator & Recognized Talent
Nilles is not only a performer but also a respected educator. She teaches at institutions like Nexus ICA, Drumeo, and the Popakademie in Germany — where she leads the drums department. (Wikipedia) She’s earned accolades in magazines like Modern Drummer and DRUM! as a rising star, educator, and clinician. (Loudwire)
Touring with Jeff Beck & Other Collaborations
In 2022, she joined Jeff Beck’s live band for a European tour — a high-profile gig that brought her to the attention of key members in RUSH’s inner circle. (Loudwire) Her precision, musicality, and feel impressed not just fans but those close to Lee and Lifeson. (Ultimate Classic Rock)
The RUSH Experiment & Selection
Geddy Lee credits his bass tech, John “Skully” McIntosh, who worked with Beck, for first reporting on Nilles’s ability. (Ultimate Classic Rock) Lee said they initially invited her to Canada “not to audition but as an experiment” — a low-pressure session to see whether the feel aligned. (Ultimate Classic Rock) That experiment clearly succeeded: Lee declared, “she is fantastic to play with.” (Ultimate Classic Rock)
Lee also noted the challenge: “No matter who the drummer is … there was going to be a translation.” (Ultimate Classic Rock) But Nilles’s combination of technique, emotional intelligence, and openness allowed her to cross that threshold. (Ultimate Classic Rock)
4. The “Fifty Something” Tour: Dates, Logistics & Highlights
Tour Name & Concept
The 2026 tour is officially dubbed “Fifty Something,” referencing more than 50 years of RUSH’s musical journey. (BLABBERMOUTH.NET) The band describes it as a celebration of their catalog, legacy, and Neil Peart’s life. (Deadline) Each show will span two sets drawn from a pool of roughly 35 songs, allowing for variation night to night. (Glide Magazine)
2026 Tour Dates & Cities
Here’s the confirmed itinerary: (BLABBERMOUTH.NET)
| Date | City & Venue |
|---|---|
| June 7 | Los Angeles, CA — Kia Forum |
| June 9 | Los Angeles, CA — Kia Forum |
| June 18 | Mexico City, MX — Palacio de los Deportes |
| June 24 | Fort Worth, TX — Dickies Arena |
| June 26 | Fort Worth, TX — Dickies Arena |
| July 16 | Chicago, IL — United Center |
| July 18 | Chicago, IL — United Center |
| July 28 | New York, NY — Madison Square Garden |
| July 30 | New York, NY — Madison Square Garden |
| August 7 | Toronto, ON — Scotiabank Arena |
| August 9 | Toronto, ON — Scotiabank Arena |
| September 17 | Cleveland, OH — Rocket Mortgage Arena |
Why These Cities Matter
- Los Angeles / The Forum: Poignant bookend — it’s where their R40 Tour ended. (BLABBERMOUTH.NET)
- Toronto: Homecoming to the band’s Canadian roots. (Consequence)
- Cleveland: A symbolic closure — both for its role in the band’s U.S. exposure and as the site of the announcement event. (Consequence)
Two-Set Format & Song Pool
Instead of one marathon performance, each night will be divided into two sets. The setlist will draw from around 35 songs, allowing for night-to-night variation. (Glide Magazine) Some nights will focus on hits, others may dive deep into the catalog.
Additional Musicians & Stage Expansion
Lee hinted that RUSH may bring in one or two additional musicians (e.g., keyboardists) to free him and Lifeson for new stage interactions and choreography. (BLABBERMOUTH.NET) The goal: not to be “Rush 2.0,” but to enhance the live experience while staying true to the music. (Deadline)
5. Ticketing, Presales & VIP Access — What You Need to Know
Artist Presale Registration Deadline
Fans can register for the artist presale by signing up by October 9 at 11:59 p.m. ET. (Consequence) No presale code is needed for most Ticketmaster artist presales (just an account link). (BLABBERMOUTH.NET) For the Cleveland show via SeatGeek, a presale code may be necessary. (BLABBERMOUTH.NET)
Artist Presale & General Onsale Dates
- Artist presale: begins Monday, October 13 at 12:00 p.m. local time (U.S. & Canada), and Thursday, October 16 at 12:00 p.m. local for Mexico. (BLABBERMOUTH.NET)
- General ticket on-sale: Friday, October 17 at 12:00 p.m. local (U.S. & Canada) and 11:00 a.m. local for Mexico dates. (Glide Magazine)
Card Presales & Special Access
- Citi (U.S.): Citi cardholders will have a presale window starting Friday, October 10 at 12:00 p.m. local, extending through October 12. (BLABBERMOUTH.NET)
- American Express (Canada): AmEx members can buy Toronto tickets before the general public beginning Friday, October 10 at 12:00 p.m. local. (Glide Magazine)
- Banamex (Mexico City): Banamex cardholders will get early access with tiered times depending on card type (Beyond, Elite, All Cards). (BLABBERMOUTH.NET)
VIP & Travel Packages
RUSH is also offering elevated VIP experiences and curated travel packages — including a first-ever 2112 Platform Experience. (Glide Magazine) Fans who want premium access should monitor official channels and act early.
6. What to Expect Live: Setlists, Tributes, and Surprises
A Balanced Journey Through RUSH’s Catalog
Because the band is pulling from about 35 possible songs, each show has the potential to be deeply unique. Expect big hits like Tom Sawyer, Limelight, The Spirit of Radio, and 2112, but also surprises and deeper cuts for die-hards. (Glide Magazine)
Honoring Neil Peart
Neil’s presence will be woven into every show. Lee and Lifeson have promised a tribute during each night — “at least a couple of times” — in their own way. (BLABBERMOUTH.NET) The goal isn’t to replicate, but to celebrate and evoke. (Deadline)
The Drummer’s Role: Nilles at the Helm
While Anika Nilles won’t be presented as a permanent “third member” of RUSH, she brings a distinct voice. Lee acknowledged the challenge: matching Neil’s spirit without mimicking. (Deadline) Because of her clean technique and expressive touch, she can honor the complexity of RUSH’s rhythmic architecture while still leaving room for her own identity. (Ultimate Classic Rock)
Stage Dynamics, Visuals & Potential Extras
With additional musicians onboard, Lee and Lifeson will have more freedom to move, interact, and experiment during live performance. (BLABBERMOUTH.NET) Lighting, production, and storytelling elements are expected to match RUSH’s legacy-level ambition.
Duration & Format
While classic 3-hour sets may be off the table, shows are expected to exceed two hours. (BLABBERMOUTH.NET) With two full sets and dynamic pacing, fans should still feel well-rewarded.
7. The Legacy Lives On: Peart’s Enduring Voice in 2026
Musical & Lyrical Tribute
Even as Lee and Lifeson navigate their new roles as torchbearers, Neil’s words and musical contributions will remain center stage. The tour is explicitly positioned as a celebration of his life and legacy. (Deadline) Carrie Nuttall-Peart and Olivia Peart emphasized how Neil expanded what rhythm and lyricism could express. (Deadline)
A New Chapter, Not a Reboot
Lee has been firm in clarifying: this is not “Rush 2.0.” The aim is to pay homage, not recreate. (Consequence) Still, those who attend must accept both the weight of absence and the excitement of presence.
Community & Fan Reactions
On forums and social media, fans are expressing a mix of elation, trepidation, and nostalgia. One Reddit user put it succinctly:
“It obviously won’t be the same without Neil … but I’m really happy that Geddy and Alex are doing this one more time for the fans.” (Reddit)
The emotional weight is undeniable — but so is the hope that this tour will bring catharsis, reconnection, and celebration.
8. Final Thoughts: A New Chapter in Prog-Rock History
The “Fifty Something” tour is a daring act: resurrecting RUSH not simply as a legacy act, but as an evolving force guided by memory and risk. Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson have walked through grief, uncertainty, and health challenges to arrive here — choosing to trust themselves, their fans, and their music.
Bringing in Anika Nilles is more than a practical replacement — it’s a gesture of faith. Her voice, her feel, and her reverence for RUSH’s past make her a living bridge between eras. The tour’s design (two sets, 35-song pool, rotating selection) reveals a strategy of depth, not safe predictability.
To fans old and new: this is your chance to see RUSH live again, to celebrate Neil’s spirit, and to witness something sui generis in modern rock. The risk is real — but so is the reward.