Rush’s Memorable Second Night at the Forum: A Setlist to Remember

Rush returned for their second night at the Forum in Los Angeles on June 9, showcasing a setlist that significantly deviated from their first performance. The band’s Fifty Something tour, marking their first tour in over a decade, has ignited excitement among fans across North America with multiple performances in each city.

A Tour Like No Other

Before the tour kicked off, frontman Geddy Lee hinted that the band would be frequently altering their setlist. This approach is particularly poignant given the backdrop of the tour’s inception, following the passing of legendary drummer Neil Peart in 2020. In preparation, Rush selected 38 songs they felt confident performing, allowing for an exciting rotation.

“For this tour, we’re starting from scratch,” Lee shared in a recent interview. “And we’re really teaching an incredibly talented, exciting drummer from a very different school of music how to understand 40 songs from this weird, idiosyncratic band. That’s a horse of an entirely different color.”

Introducing Anika Nilles

The drummer Lee referred to is Anika Nilles, who has stepped into the formidable role left by Peart. Nilles received enthusiastic praise during her debut concert on June 7 and continued to impress with her performance on night two.

What Did Rush Play on the Second Night of Their Reunion Tour?

The concert began with a familiar opening as Rush kicked off with “Xanadu” and “The Spirit of Radio.” However, the setlist took a refreshing turn with “The Analog Kid,” which was performed for the first time since 2013. Other familiar tracks included “Freewill,” “Subdivisions,” and “Bravado,” the latter being a heartfelt dedication to Peart.

Rush kept fans guessing by introducing several tour debuts, including “Leave That Thing Alone” (last played in 2011), “Headlong Flight,” and “The Trees,” which hadn’t been performed since 2008.

Even More Surprises in the Second Set

After a brief intermission, Rush returned for their second set, initially appearing to follow a similar pattern to their first night. However, they once again surprised the audience with a full performance of the iconic “2112” suite, a rarity that hadn’t been experienced since 1997 for several of its parts.

The second set also featured additional tour debuts, including “Animate,” “Closer to the Heart,” and “A Passage to Bangkok.” In total, Rush performed 28 songs, with 14 of them differing from their opening night concert.

Full Setlist for June 9, 2026

Set One:

• “Xanadu”
• “The Spirit of Radio”
• “The Analog Kid” (first time since 2013)
• “Freewill”
• “Subdivisions”
• “Bravado” (dedicated to Neil Peart)
• “Leave That Thing Alone” (first time since 2011)
• “The Trees”
• “Headlong Flight” (first time since 2015)
• “Limelight”

Set Two:

• 2112 Part I: “Overture”
• 2112 Part II: “The Temples of Syrinx”
• 2112 Part III: “Discovery” (first time since 1997)
• 2112 Part IV: “Presentation” (first time since 2015)
• 2112 Part V: “Oracle: The Dream” (first time since 1997)
• 2112 Part VI: “Soliloquy”
• 2112 Part VII: “Grand Finale”
• “Animate” (first time since 2015)
• “Closer to the Heart” (first time since 2015)
• “A Passage to Bangkok” (first time since 2008)
• “Time Stand Still” (with Aimee Mann)
• “YYZ”
• “Anthem” (first time since 2015)
• “Red Barchetta”
• “Witch Hunt” (first time since 2011)
• “Tom Sawyer”

Encore:

• “Finding My Way” (tour debut)
• “Working Man”

Conclusion

Rush’s second night at the Forum was a testament to their enduring legacy and musical prowess. With a fresh setlist that honored their past while embracing new beginnings, the concert left fans buzzing with excitement for what lies ahead in the Fifty Something tour. As they continue to navigate this new chapter, Rush proves that their music and connection with fans remain as powerful as ever.

FAQs

What is the Fifty Something tour about?

The Fifty Something tour marks Rush’s first concert tour in 11 years, featuring a rotating setlist that includes songs from their extensive catalog.

Who is Anika Nilles?

Anika Nilles is the drummer who joined Rush following the passing of Neil Peart, bringing her unique style and talent to the band.

Are there any notable songs that Rush debuted during the tour?

Yes, the tour has seen several tour debuts, including “Leave That Thing Alone,” “Headlong Flight,” and “A Passage to Bangkok,” among others.

What can fans expect from future shows on the tour?

Fans can expect a unique experience at each concert, as Rush has committed to regularly changing their setlist, ensuring that no two shows are the same.