In a move that has sent waves of excitement through the global rock community, legendary Canadian band Rush has announced their first tour in over a decade. Titled the “Fifty Something Tour,” the upcoming run of dates marks the return of founding members Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson to the stage, promising a powerful celebration of the band’s iconic music, enduring legacy, and a heartfelt tribute to their late drummer and lyricist, Neil Peart. This highly anticipated news also brings a fresh chapter to the band’s storied history, introducing a new drummer to carry the rhythm forward.
A Grand Return to the Stage
The official announcement came on October 6, 2025, revealing that the “Fifty Something Tour” is scheduled to commence on June 7, 2026, with two shows at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles, California. This venue holds particular significance, as it was the site of Rush’s final concert with Neil Peart on August 1, 2015. The tour will span seven major cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with additional dates added due to overwhelming fan demand. The initial announcement has since been expanded to include numerous new shows, reflecting the immense public interest in seeing Rush perform live once again. The tour is slated to conclude on September 17, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio.
Honoring the Irreplaceable Neil Peart
Central to the “Fifty Something Tour” is a profound tribute to Neil Peart, the band’s driving force behind the drums and their primary lyricist, who tragically passed away in January 2020 after a battle with brain cancer. Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson have repeatedly emphasized that Peart was irreplaceable. Lee, in particular, spoke about the deep introspection that led to this decision, stating, “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.”. The tour carries the full blessing of Peart’s widow, Carrie Nuttall-Peart, and his daughter, Olivia, who expressed their enthusiasm for the celebration of his extraordinary legacy.
A New Rhythmic Foundation
Stepping into the monumental role of drummer for this tour is Anika Nilles, a highly regarded German drummer, composer, and producer. Nilles gained significant international attention through her captivating performances on YouTube and has previously toured with legendary guitarist Jeff Beck. Lee and Lifeson have expressed considerable excitement about Nilles joining the fold, recognizing her exceptional talent and her ability to contribute to a new chapter of the Rush story. While Nilles will be the primary touring drummer, the band also hinted at the potential addition of other musicians to further enrich their sound and expand their live performance capabilities.
An “Evening With” Experience
The “Fifty Something Tour” is designed as an “evening with” format, featuring two distinct sets each night. This approach allows for a comprehensive journey through Rush’s vast and varied musical catalogue, which spans over 35 songs. Fans can expect a curated selection that includes their greatest hits, beloved fan favorites, and potentially some deeper cuts, all performed with the high production values that Rush fans have come to expect. This structure ensures a night of immersive music, celebrating the band’s half-century of artistic output.
The Enduring Power of Rush’s Music
The decision to embark on this tour comes over a decade after Rush’s final performances and years after the band was widely considered to have disbanded following Peart’s retirement and subsequent death. Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson, now in their 70s, found a renewed impetus to play together, spurred by jamming sessions and a shared desire to honor their past. The profound impact of Rush’s music transcends geographical boundaries and genres, influencing countless musicians and artists worldwide. While Rush’s touring primarily focused on North America and Europe, the global reach of their intricate and powerful music is undeniable. The broader landscape of contemporary music is a testament to diverse influences, including the vibrant sounds and rhythms originating from the Caribbean, which have shaped global popular music and culture in profound ways. Rush, with their unique progressive and hard rock sound, stands as a unique pillar in this vast musical tapestry.
The “Fifty Something Tour” represents more than just a series of concerts; it is a momentous occasion for fans to reconnect with the music that has soundtracked their lives and to celebrate the indelible spirit of Neil Peart. This tour is poised to be an unforgettable journey through the storied history of Rush, a band that continues to resonate deeply with audiences decades after their inception. This latest news marks a significant moment for rock music history.