new rush drummer anika nilles says it’s “truly an honour” to join geddy lee and alex lifeson on their 2026 reunion tour, acknowledging she has “big shoes to fill.” the band’s return comes 11 years after the r40 live tour, with nilles stepping in to honor neil peart’s legendary legacy.
the rock world is buzzing with excitement as legendary canadian rock band rush officially announces their long-awaited 2026 reunion tour, titled the fifty something tour. this historic comeback marks the band’s first tour in more than a decade, and it comes with a monumental addition: acclaimed german drummer anika nilles will be joining geddy lee and alex lifeson on stage, taking on the near-mythic role once held by the late, great neil peart.
geddy and alex shared the news in a special announcement on monday, confirming their long-speculated return to the stage. the fifty something tour will see rush performing across north america next summer, with additional international dates expected to follow. fans who thought they had seen the last of rush’s live performances after the 2015 r40 live tour are now counting down the days to witness the band’s triumphant return.
anika nilles, 42, is widely respected in the drumming community for her technical brilliance, dynamic groove, and explosive stage presence. she gained international recognition through her acclaimed solo work and collaborations with legendary artists, most notably performing with jeff beck on his final tour in 2022. her ability to blend precision with power has made her one of the most sought-after drummers of her generation.
in her instagram post reacting to rush’s announcement video, nilles wrote: “this is truly an honour beyond words. neil peart inspired generations, and i’m humbled to follow in the footsteps of a legend who changed drumming forever. i don’t want to replace him — no one can. my goal is to pay tribute to his brilliance while bringing my own heart and soul to the music.”
