When Rush announced their return to the stage, the rock world paused in astonishment. Just three days after the official confirmation, fans are still processing the news: Alex Lifeson and Geddy Lee are back — joined by drummer Anika Nilles, who will fill the position left by the legendary Neil Peart.
However, behind the excitement of the reunion, Lifeson revealed a surprising detail: playing Rush’s music again has proven to be more challenging than he had anticipated.
The Rediscovery of Rush
In an interview with Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Lifeson confessed that revisiting the band’s compositions felt almost like relearning how to play guitar. “When we sat down and started playing some Rush songs, I realized how difficult it was to play these pieces,” the guitarist shared.
After more than four decades of performing alongside Geddy Lee and Neil Peart, Lifeson had the music ingrained in him. However, the time away from touring offered him a fresh perspective. “When you do this every day for 40 years, it doesn’t seem like a big deal. But when you step back and observe the music’s complexity, the nuances, and the feel, it becomes both challenging and exciting,” he stated.
He also emphasized how rediscovering this repertoire rekindled his passion for playing. “The more we rehearsed, the more I fell in love with the idea of being on stage again.”
Geddy Lee and the Weight of the Decision
Geddy Lee addressed the matter head-on by stating that the decision to return was not an easy one. “Losing Neil was devastating. For a long time, we didn’t even think about that possibility. It was something very difficult to contemplate,” the bassist and vocalist disclosed.
The choice to move forward involved not only emotion but also respect for Peart’s legacy. “How do you replace someone irreplaceable?” he pondered.
Nevertheless, something changed in the past two years. Lee recounted that informal meet-ups with Lifeson reignited a dormant creative spark. “He would come over, have some coffee, hang out, and we would play and laugh. One day, we started playing some Rush songs just for fun — and that cleared away the dark clouds.”
Anika Nilles Takes Over Drumming Duties
The addition of Anika Nilles to the lineup was met with enthusiasm from fans. The German drummer is renowned for her impeccable technique and magnetic stage presence. Her inclusion is not seen as a replacement but as a tribute to the genius of Neil Peart.
Lifeson and Lee assure that the decision was made with heartfelt consideration. “We wanted someone who understood Rush’s energy, without trying to be Neil. Anika brought both respect and a fresh perspective,” Lee remarked.
Tour Scheduled for 2026
Rush will officially return to the road in the summer of 2026, embarking on a tour that will span seven cities across North America. Pre-sale tickets are already available, and general ticket sales will begin on October 17.
For Lifeson, this return signifies more than just a celebration — it marks a new chapter. “These songs are part of our lives. Playing them again is a way to relive memories, emotions, and challenges. It feels like coming home,” he expressed.
With emotion, respect, and virtuosity, Rush promises to transform this tour into a vibrant tribute to their legacy. And, if Lifeson and Lee have their way, the audience can expect more than just nostalgia: they can anticipate the rebirth of one of the most influential bands in the history of progressive rock.
