The numbers
Rush performed with new drummer Anika Nilles for the first time at the Juno Awards on March 29, 2026, in Hamilton, Ontario. This performance marked a significant return for the band, as it was their first since the conclusion of their 40th anniversary tour in 2015. The event was particularly poignant, featuring archival video footage of the late drummer Neil Peart, who passed away in 2020 at the age of 67.
The band played “Finding My Way,” the first song from their debut album, a choice that Geddy Lee explained by saying, “You really can’t ask us what song to play. If we have to choose one song, it’s almost impossible. We have so many. So we just asked management, and they said first song, first album.” Alex Lifeson humorously added, “It’s the only song we know how to play.” This light-hearted banter highlighted the camaraderie that remains among the surviving members.
Anika Nilles, who previously drummed for renowned guitarist Jeff Beck, has stepped into a role that carries a heavy legacy. The transition comes after the band’s original drummer, John Rutsey, was replaced by Peart just before their inaugural North American tour in 1974. Nilles’ debut with Rush signifies a new chapter for the band, which has been a cornerstone of rock music for decades.
The upcoming Fifty Something tour, set to launch on June 7, 2026, in Los Angeles, was initially announced as a 12-date run but has now expanded to over 50 shows worldwide. This extensive tour will feature a rotating selection of 35 songs, allowing fans to experience a diverse setlist. The anticipation surrounding the tour is palpable, especially considering that Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson have not performed as Rush since August 1, 2015.
At the Juno Awards, Lee, now 72, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to perform again, emphasizing the band’s commitment to honoring their past while looking forward to the future. The performance not only celebrated the band’s history but also introduced Nilles to a new generation of fans.
As Rush prepares for the Fifty Something tour, observers are eager to see how Nilles will adapt to the demands of performing with such an iconic band. The combination of her fresh energy and the band’s storied legacy presents an intriguing dynamic that fans are keen to witness.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full setlist for the upcoming tour, but the excitement surrounding Rush’s return is undeniable. With Nilles now at the helm of the drums, the band is poised to embark on a journey that honors their past while embracing new possibilities.
