Rush Drummer Anika Nilles Prepares for the Fifty Something Reunion Tour

Rush drummer Anika Nilles recently shared insights into her unique preparation regimen for the band’s newly launched Fifty Something reunion tour. Known for their progressive rock mastery, Rush’s extensive catalog posed significant challenges that necessitated changes in Nilles’ usual practice routine.

Anika Nilles on Her Unconventional Learning Process

In a candid interview with music educator Rick Beato, Nilles addressed the complexities of learning the Rush repertoire. When asked how she managed to master so many songs in preparation for the tour, she admitted, “I have no idea.” Nilles elaborated on her experience, stating, “Sometimes I was sitting there and thought, ‘I have no idea how I’m learning that,’ but somehow it’s working because I learned those songs in a completely different way.”

Adapting to Rush’s Unique Sound

Nilles further explained her typical practice routine, which usually involves listening to music, creating charts, and playing along. However, she quickly realized that this method wouldn’t suffice for Rush’s intricate compositions. “Usually I just listen, then I make a quick chart for myself to have it visually in front of my eyes and then I just listen, read and play. And I figured with this, it doesn’t work right,” she said. She noted the difficulty in transcribing the music since much of it is based on a feeling rather than strict notation.

“And technically you can write it out, but I would have spent so much time with just that,” she continued. “I thought, I don’t have that time. I just have to listen, make chunks for myself and just learn it step by step.” Nilles emphasized that while memorizing the parts was one challenge, capturing the essence of the music brought an entirely different set of hurdles.

Collaborative Rehearsals with Rush

Taking on the mantle of the late Neil Peart, an iconic figure in drumming history, was no easy task for Nilles. With Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson having nearly 50 years of experience under their belts, she felt both excitement and pressure. However, after connecting with the band through Lee’s bass tech, John “Scully” McIntosh, Nilles embraced the challenge. “I was diving directly into the Rush rabbit hole and just listened to everything I could catch — the music, videos, interviews, live shows, everything you can find online,” she recalled.

Starting Fresh Together

Interestingly, Nilles pointed out that Rush’s long hiatus from touring played a role in easing the pressure during rehearsals. “We all kind of started a little bit together from scratch,” she explained. While the band had their own history, the three musicians had to find a common ground. “It didn’t feel like that [being the newbie] at all. They hadn’t played it in 10 years, which definitely took the pressure a little bit off my shoulders.”

Positive Reception and Upcoming Performances

Nilles’ preparation has clearly paid off, as the initial shows of the Fifty Something reunion tour have received enthusiastic feedback, particularly praising her impressive drumming skills. The tour continues with upcoming performances, including a highly anticipated show in Los Angeles.

Conclusion

Anika Nilles’ dedication and unconventional approach to preparing for the Rush Fifty Something reunion tour highlight her adaptability and talent as a drummer. As the tour progresses, fans eagerly anticipate how she will continue to honor the legacy of Rush while making her mark on their storied catalog.

FAQs

What is Anika Nilles known for?

Anika Nilles is a professional drummer known for her work with the band Rush, stepping in as the drummer for their Fifty Something reunion tour.

How did Nilles prepare for the Rush tour?

Nilles adapted her usual practice routine by focusing on listening and chunking songs rather than traditional charting methods, capturing the feeling of the music instead.

What challenges did Nilles face while preparing for the tour?

She faced the challenge of learning a large and complex catalog of Rush songs, which required a different approach than her typical practice routine.

When does the Fifty Something reunion tour continue?

The tour continues with performances scheduled through April 2027, including a show in Los Angeles.