Geddy Lee Says a 2022 Tribute Concert Sparked Rush Comeback: “It Showed Us Those Songs Are Still Alive”

A Return Years in the Making

In 2026, Rush will return to the stage with the Fifty Something Tour, marking their first major run of shows since the death of drummer and lyricist Neil Peart. Co-founders Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson announced dates across Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The first 22 shows sold out right away. More dates were added, bringing the total to 58 concerts in 24 cities and more than 500,000 tickets sold.

Speaking with Absolute Radio, Lee and Lifeson reflected on their decision to perform again. The band had not toured the United Kingdom in nearly 13 years. Now, they are preparing to return with a new drummer, Anika Nilles. The shows will also mark 50 years since the release of 2112, one of their most known records.

A Tribute That Changed Everything

Lee said the turning point came in 2022, when he and Lifeson joined Dave Grohl on stage at the tribute concert for Taylor Hawkins. Playing Rush songs that night reminded them of the bond they still shared with fans. As Lee later explained, the experience showed them that the music still had power and meaning.

That performance led to new conversations about honoring Peart’s memory through live shows. The upcoming tour is meant to celebrate the band’s catalog and pay respect to their late bandmate. Carrie Nuttall-Peart and Olivia Peart voiced their support, saying: “We are thrilled to support the Fifty Something tour, celebrating a band whose music has resonated and inspired fans for generations, and to honor Neil’s extraordinary legacy as both a drummer and lyricist. Neil’s musicianship was singular. Compositions of intricacy and power that expanded what rhythm itself could express. As both drummer and lyricist, he was irreplaceable. Inimitable in his artistry, and unmatched in the depth and imagination he brought to the lyrics that inspired and moved so many, he profoundly shaped how fans connected with him and the band, giving voice and meaning to their own lives. As the band enters this new chapter, it promises to be truly unforgettable. We are excited to see how their new vision unfolds, and to hear this legendary music played live once again.”

Expanding the Tour Worldwide

After strong ticket sales in North America, the group added dates in South America, the United Kingdom, and Europe for early 2027. These shows will be their first in Europe since 2013 and their first visit to South America in 17 years. In total, the international leg will include 24 performances across 13 countries.

Each concert will follow an “evening with” format, featuring two sets per night. The musicians plan to rotate songs from a list of more than 40 tracks, mixing well-known hits with deeper cuts. German drummer Anika Nilles will join Lee and Lifeson. She has worked with Jeff Beck and released four solo albums. Keyboardist Loren Gold, who has played with The Who and Roger Daltrey, will also take part.

Preparing for the Stage Again

Lee shared his thoughts about the rehearsals and the upcoming shows: “We can’t wait to get back to all these cities we haven’t played in so long, as well as hitting some new places we’ve yet to play. Both Alex and I are loving the hours of rehearsal time we’re spending with Anika and now Loren, learning around 40 songs which will enable us to keep the shows evolving, playing some different songs on different nights. We are thrilled that many of our longstanding crew have come back to help us design the kind of Rush show that fans have grown accustomed to expect from us. We dearly hope you will come along and help us celebrate 50 years of Rush music, while giving Neil the long overdue tribute he so richly deserves.”

Pre-sales for fan club and backstage members begin February 24 at 10 a.m. local time. VIP packages and travel options will also be offered for those who want a closer look at the production and special access during the tour.