music
February 27, 2026
'Everybody wants a bestie like this guy!' Rush on rock’s most anticipated reunion
After drummer Neil Peart died in 2020, many thought the Canadian prog legends would never reform. As they book a mammoth global tour, Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson explain how their lifelong bond drew them back together
TL;DR
- Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson, friends for 60 years, are reuniting Rush for a global tour, fueled by their strong personal bond.
- The band decided to reform not out of missing Rush, but out of missing playing together as friends.
- They have selected German drummer Anika Nilles to replace the late Neil Peart, aiming for her to respect Peart's original parts while adding her own spirit.
- Rush's musical journey involved evolving from a heavy blues rock band to incorporating progressive elements and later synths, with lyrical themes shifting from fantasy to personal experiences.
- Their enduring friendship has enabled them to overcome band challenges, including adapting to Peart's reinvented drumming style and Lifeson's desire to focus on guitar.
- The audience's affection for Rush is attributed to their work ethic, unapologetic 'nerdery,' and notably, the moving friendship between Lee and Lifeson.
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