When Alex Lifeson and Geddy Lee announced that Rush was going back on the road after 10 years, the first big question was: who could replace someone like the late drummer Neil Peart, who is truly irreplaceable? The answer was Anika Nilles, a highly praised German drummer who, besides having an acclaimed solo career, also toured with major acts like the late Jeff Beck. She gave her first statement after the band’s announcement, thanking Lee and Lifeson for the opportunity.
Anika Nilles talks about becoming Rush’s touring drummer
“I want to take a moment to sincerely thank Geddy and Alex for their trust and for welcoming me on this incredible new journey with Rush. I also don’t want to miss the chance to warmly welcome all the new faces here and to thank you for your kind and open-minded words — they truly mean a lot.”
“At the same time, I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has followed and supported my journey over the years. We’re all in this together now, and I couldn’t be more excited about what lies ahead,” Anika Nilles said.
Rush 2026 tour dates
June
- 7 – Los Angeles, CA Kia Forum
- 9 – Los Angeles, CA Kia Forum
- 11 – Los Angeles, CA Kia Forum
- 13 – Los Angeles, CA Kia Forum
- 18 – Mexico City, MX. Palacio de los Deportes
- 24 – Fort Worth, TX Dickies Arena
- 26 – Fort Worth, TX Dickies Arena
- 28 – Fort Worth, TX Dickies Arena
- 30 – Fort Worth, TX Dickies Arena
July
- 16 – Chicago, IL United Center
- 18 – Chicago, IL United Center
- 20 – Chicago, IL United Center
- 22 – Chicago, IL United Center
- 28 – New York, NY Madison Square Garden
- 30 – New York, NY Madison Square Garden
August
- 1 – New York, NY Madison Square Garden
- 3 – New York, NY Madison Square Garden
- 7 – Toronto, ON Scotiabank Arena
- 9 – Toronto, ON Scotiabank Arena
- 11 – Toronto, ON Scotiabank Arena
- 13 – Toronto, ON Scotiabank Arena
- 17 – Cleveland, OH Rocket Arena
- 19 – Cleveland, OH Rocket Arena