Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson revealed on social media that they have been practicing approximately 35 songs for an upcoming Rush tour in 2026. The tour dates announced cover June to September and include shows in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, with two performances in Toronto in August.
Rush’s last concert was in Los Angeles in 2015, marking the end of any reunion hopes following the passing of drummer Neil Peart in 2020 due to glioblastoma. Anika Nilles, a German drummer known for her solo work and touring with Jeff Beck, will join the band as the drummer.
Lee acknowledged the difficulty of replacing Peart but expressed excitement about the chemistry with Nilles during rehearsals. Lifeson mentioned that each show will include a tribute to Peart, celebrating his legacy each night.
Lee and Lifeson, both 72, who met in junior high in North York, Ontario, plan to add a fourth musician, likely a keyboardist, for the upcoming tour, deviating from their traditional power trio setup. The musicians have remained active with side projects, including Lee’s autobiography release and Lifeson’s albums with Envy of None.
The duo, who bonded over music and formed Rush in 1970, achieved accolades such as winning Juno Awards and becoming a headlining act in arenas and stadiums with hit songs like “Fly By Night” and “Tom Sawyer.” Despite challenges, including personal tragedies for Peart, the band continued to tour until 2015.
Rush’s impact on the music industry has been recognized with inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Canadian Music Hall of Fame, Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the Governor General’s Performing Arts award for lifetime artistic achievement.