Rush introduces new drummer and prepares for first tour following the passing of Neil Peart.
Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson of the legendary Canadian rock band Rush are set to return to the stage for the first time since the passing of their esteemed drummer, Neil Peart. The announcement marks an important moment for fans and the band alike, as they reveal plans for their much-anticipated Fifty Something Tour. This tour will not only celebrate the rich musical legacy of Rush but also pay homage to Peart’s invaluable contributions as a drummer and lyricist.
The Fifty Something Tour is notable for being the band’s first series of live performances in over a decade. Rush co-founders Lee and Lifeson expressed their excitement in a statement, emphasizing the profound impact that Peart’s passing has had on their musical journey. Peart, who succumbed to glioblastoma in January 2020 at the age of 67, left behind a legacy that spans a lifetime of songwriting and performance. The band last toured in 2015 during their R40 Tour, which concluded an era of live shows for the trio.
In preparation for this new chapter, Rush has enlisted German drummer Anika Nilles to join the band for the tour. The decision to bring in a new drummer represents a significant transition for Lee and Lifeson. They conveyed optimism about Nilles’ potential to connect with fans, affirming their belief that she will be embraced by the Rush audience despite the monumental task of taking on Peart’s role.
The Fifty Something Tour will kick off on June 7 at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles, which holds sentimental value as the location of the band’s last performance with Peart. The tour itinerary includes multiple high-profile stops, including two nights in Los Angeles, performances in Mexico City, Fort Worth, Chicago, and two nights at the iconic Madison Square Garden, as well as shows in Toronto and Cleveland, among others.
As anticipation builds, fans are encouraged to participate in the presale registration for tickets, which begins on October 13, with general sales opening on October 17. Lee, Lifeson, and Nilles have already commenced rehearsals, aiming to deliver a concert experience that honors the band’s storied history and captivates audiences once again.
For die-hard fans, this tour presents an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable journey of Rush while honoring the memory of a legendary bandmate whose influence will forever resonate in their music.
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