Rush Kicks Off Fifty Something Reunion Tour in Los Angeles
Rush launched their highly anticipated Fifty Something reunion tour on Sunday at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles, marking a significant evening in the band’s history. This concert was notable for several reasons: it was their first full-length performance in nearly 11 years, their first headlining show since the passing of legendary drummer Neil Peart, and their inaugural complete show featuring new drummer Anika Nilles.
Anika Nilles Takes the Stage
Joining the band is Anika Nilles, who previously toured with Jeff Beck. Filling Peart’s shoes is no easy task, but Nilles rose to the occasion with impressive flair. Drum cam footage from the concert, shared by the TapeheadToo YouTube account, showcases her skill across a setlist of 24 songs from Rush’s extensive discography.
Concert Highlights
The show opened with the iconic track “Xanadu.” During the performance, Nilles experienced a minor hiccup when she fumbled a drumstick. However, she quickly regained composure and seamlessly continued playing, much to the audience’s delight. This moment, rather than detracting from the performance, enhanced the crowd’s energy and goodwill for the evening.
Remembering Neil Peart
The spirit of Neil Peart was palpable throughout the concert. Geddy Lee, the band’s singer and bassist, made it clear that the night was a celebration of over 50 years of music created with Peart. After the first song, he addressed the audience, stating, “We’re here for so many reasons. We’re here to celebrate over 50 years of music that [Alex Lifeson], myself, and the great Neil Peart made together. We’re here to pay tribute to Neil.”
A Fitting Tribute
The concert concluded with a heartfelt tribute to Peart. Actors Paul Rudd and Jason Segel, who previously starred in the 2009 film I Love You, Man, appeared on screen to reprise their roles as devoted Rush fans. They humorously debated the pronunciation of Peart’s name, affectionately referring to him as “the almighty, the best in the world, ever.”
Looking Ahead
Rush’s Fifty Something Tour is set to continue on Tuesday in Los Angeles and is scheduled to run through April 2027, offering fans more opportunities to celebrate the band’s legacy and their new lineup.
Photo Gallery from Opening Night
Check out some memorable moments from Rush’s opening night, featuring Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson performing together for the first time in over a decade.
Conclusion
Rush’s Fifty Something reunion tour kickoff was a momentous occasion, blending nostalgia with a fresh start. Anika Nilles not only honored Neil Peart’s legacy but also proved herself as a formidable talent in her own right. With the crowd’s support and the band’s heartfelt tributes, the evening set a hopeful tone for the future of Rush.
FAQs
1. When did Rush’s Fifty Something reunion tour begin?
The tour kicked off on June 7, 2026, at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles.
2. Who is the new drummer for Rush?
Anika Nilles is the new drummer, taking over following the passing of Neil Peart in 2020.
3. How many songs did Rush perform at the opening concert?
Rush performed 24 songs from their extensive discography during the concert.
4. What notable tributes were made to Neil Peart during the concert?
Geddy Lee highlighted Peart’s legacy during his address to the audience, and a video tribute featuring Paul Rudd and Jason Segel was shown at the end of the concert.
5. When will the tour continue?
The tour will resume on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, and is scheduled to run through April 2027.
