Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson revealed in a social media update on Monday that they have been practicing around 35 songs for an upcoming tour as Rush next year. The announced tour dates span from June to September 2026 in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, with two shows set for August in Toronto.
Rush performed their final concert in Los Angeles in 2015. Following the passing of the esteemed drummer Neil Peart at the age of 67 on January 7, 2020, after battling glioblastoma, any potential reunion hopes were dashed.
Anika Nilles, a German drummer known for her solo work and touring with guitar legend Jeff Beck, will be joining the band as the drummer. Despite the challenge of filling in for the incomparable Peart, Lee expressed the undeniable chemistry felt during rehearsals with Nilles, revitalizing their songs.
Lifeson mentioned that while each show will have unique elements, there will always be a tribute to Peart. The duo, both 72 years old, have engaged in joint performances since Peart’s passing, notably for tribute events honoring Gordon Lightfoot and Taylor Hawkins of the Foo Fighters.
The iconic musicians have stayed active with side projects; Lee published his autobiography in 2023, while Lifeson released two albums with Envy of None. They hinted at the possibility of adding a fourth member, likely a keyboardist, for the upcoming Fifty Something tour, deviating from their traditional power trio setup.
Lee and Lifeson’s enduring friendship, which began nearly six decades ago in junior high in North York, Ontario, has been pivotal in their musical journey. They bonded over shared musical influences and eventually formed Rush in 1970, with Peart joining in 1974 and contributing not only as a drummer but also as the band’s primary lyricist.
Rush’s trajectory from a promising group to an award-winning sensation, fueled by hits like “Fly By Night,” “Closer to the Heart,” and “Tom Sawyer,” solidified their status as arena and stadium headliners. Despite uncertainties in the late 1990s, the band persisted through personal tragedies and triumphs, accumulating numerous accolades, including inductions into prestigious halls of fame.
Their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013 marked a historic milestone, recognizing their lasting impact on the music industry. The upcoming tour promises to celebrate their legacy while honoring the memory of Neil Peart, ensuring that Rush’s music continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
