Rush Are Back! 2026 Reunion Tour Announced With New Drummer Revealed

The Return of a Rock Institution

After more than a decade away from the stage, Rush are officially returning. Founding members Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson announced that the progressive rock icons will embark on a 2026 reunion tour—their first since 2015. The news arrives six years after the loss of drummer Neil Peart, who passed away in 2020 at the age of 67.

Following Peart’s death, Lee and Lifeson confirmed that Rush had come to an end. Yet in recent years, the two began jamming privately again, rediscovering their chemistry. Now, with renewed purpose, they’re ready to bring Rush back to the stage—this time with drummer Anika Nilles, who previously toured with Jeff Beck.

The “Fifty Something” Tour

The reunion trek, called “Fifty Something,” will kick off on June 7, 2026, at the KIA Forum in Los Angeles. The North American tour will include stops in Mexico City, Fort Worth, Chicago, New York, Toronto, and Cleveland.

Each show will feature two full Rush sets. According to the press release, “Rush will build each night’s setlist from a catalogue of 35 songs including their greatest hits and fan favorites.” Fans can expect deep cuts alongside classics like Tom Sawyer, The Spirit of Radio, and Limelight.

 

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Geddy Lee on Moving Forward

In a heartfelt statement, Geddy Lee reflected on the band’s decision to reunite. “It’s been over 10 years since Alex and I have performed the music of Rush alongside our fallen bandmate and friend Neil,” he wrote. “A lifetime’s worth of songs that we had put our cumulative hearts and souls into writing, recording and playing together onstage. And so, after all that has gone down since that last show, Alex and I have done some serious soul searching and come to the decision that we fucking miss it, and that it’s time for a celebration of 50-something years of Rush music.”

Lee added that the reunion is as much about honoring Peart’s legacy as it is about reconnecting with fans. “So in 2026 my BFF Lerxst (aka Alex Lifeson) and I are going to hit the road once again to pay tribute to our past and to Neil by performing a vast selection of Rush songs in a handful of cities. No small task, because as we all know Neil was irreplaceable.”

A New Face Behind the Kit

Lee praised new drummer Anika Nilles, recognizing the challenge of stepping into Peart’s place. “Yet life is full of surprises, and we’ve been introduced to another remarkable person; an incredible drummer and musician who is adding another chapter to our story while continuing her own fascinating musical journey.”

He also revealed that Rush plans to expand the lineup slightly. “We hope to add one or two more musicians to our band,” he said, “to expand our sound a wee bit and free up Alex and I, in order to show off some of our new fancy dance steps.”

Support from the Peart Family

The tour has the blessing of Carrie Nuttall-Peart and Olivia Peart, Neil Peart’s widow and daughter. In a joint statement, they said, “We are thrilled to support the Fifty Something tour, celebrating a band whose music has resonated and inspired fans for generations, and to honour Neil’s extraordinary legacy as both a drummer and lyricist.”

They described his talent as “singular,” adding, “Inimitable in his artistry, and unmatched in the depth and imagination he brought to the lyrics that inspired and moved so many.”

The Peart family closed their statement with encouragement: “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.”

Rush 2026 Tour Dates

June
07 – Los Angeles, CA – KIA Forum
09 – Los Angeles, CA – KIA Forum
18 – Mexico City, MX – Palacio de los Deportes
24 – Fort Worth, TX – Dickies Arena
26 – Fort Worth, TX – Dickies Arena

July
16 – Chicago, IL – United Center
18 – Chicago, IL – United Center
28 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden
30 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden
07 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena
09 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena
17 – Cleveland, OH – Rocket Arena

Tickets go on sale to the public October 17 at 12 PM local time, following an artist presale one week earlier.