Watch Anika Nilles Prove Exactly Why Rush Chose Her as Their New Drummer
via TAMA Drums Germany / YouTube
A New Era Behind the Kit
After Rush announced their long-awaited return to the stage this week, fans rushed online to learn more about Anika Nilles, the German drummer stepping into the role once held by the late Neil Peart. Nilles’ appointment marks a major moment for the band, as Peart’s intricate and precise drumming was long considered a cornerstone of Rush’s sound.
To celebrate, Tama Drums, the Japanese company that supplies Nilles’ drum gear, released a new performance video featuring her playing “FouFou,” a track from her third solo album False Truth, which dropped last month. The video quickly gained attention for showcasing Nilles’ mix of technical control and musical feel.
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Fans React to Her Performance
The online response has been overwhelmingly positive. Viewers praised her precision, creativity, and effortless motion around the kit, especially as the performance builds toward its peak.
“I absolutely cannot follow or understand what’s happening here,” one commenter admitted. “But it sounds and feels right and somehow complete.”
Another fan added, “The more I see of this drummer, the more I see why Geddy and Alex picked her. Wonderful. All about the drumming. So good.”
A third summed up what many were thinking, writing simply: “Wow! Extraordinary!”
Nilles Shares Her Gratitude
Since the news broke, Nilles’ social media following has grown rapidly. Despite the excitement, she has remained humble and appreciative in her only public comment so far.
“It’s truly an honour! Big shoes to fill! Thank you, Geddy and Alex, for trusting me and welcoming me on this incredible journey with you!” she wrote on her Instagram story.
Other musicians also voiced their support. Dream Theater drummer Mike Portnoy, who many fans had speculated might join Rush himself, congratulated both Nilles and the band. “Incredible! I am so happy for Geddy and Alex! And so excited for all of us Rush fanatics around the world! Congrats to Anika Nilles, who I’m sure will be amazing. She’s awesome! This will be a beautiful way to pay tribute to Neil and to honour his and the band’s legacy! I can’t wait to see this.”
Keep going for the video below:
Rush Announces 2026 Tour Dates
Fans eager to witness Rush’s return can join the Ticketmaster presale by Thursday, October 9 at 11:59 p.m. ET. The Fifty Something 2026 tour includes multiple nights in Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, and Toronto, as well as stops in Mexico City, Fort Worth, and Cleveland.
