In March 2023, Rush released “Rush 50,” a remarkable greatest hits collection that concluded with the final songs from the band’s last concert in 2015. Following the profound loss of drummer and lyricist Neil Peart in January 2020 due to glioblastoma, fans had largely accepted that a Rush live reunion was unlikely. However, in a stunning twist, Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson have announced their return to the stage as Rush for a highly anticipated summer tour in 2026.
The upcoming tour, aptly named Fifty Something, is touted as a celebration of Rush’s extensive musical legacy and a tribute to the life of the late Neil Peart. The tour will kick off with two nights at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles on June 7 and 9, a poignant choice as it marks the venue of Rush's final performance. Following this, the band will perform in various cities, including a show in Mexico City, two nights each in Fort Worth, Chicago, New York, and Toronto, before wrapping up with a concert in Cleveland on September 17.
The announcement of the tour was made during an exclusive private event at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. This event featured a viewing of Rush's induction speeches and performances, culminating in an engaging interview with Lee and Lifeson. The news of the reunion was initially met with disbelief from attendees, who erupted in applause when it became clear Lee was serious about touring again.
Geddy Lee expressed that deciding to tour again was a “very difficult decision,” influenced by both the work involved and the emotional weight of Peart's passing. He reflected on the sadness that surrounded their last performance, stating, “It took time for us to even contemplate” returning to the stage. Yet, after privately jamming together, Lee and Lifeson found renewed joy in playing Rush’s music, which helped dispel the dark clouds that had lingered since Peart's death.
Joining Lee and Lifeson on this tour will be Anika Nilles, an award-winning German composer and producer known for her work with Jeff Beck and her solo albums. Nilles impressed the duo during a casual jam session, proving her ability to adapt to Rush’s complex musical style. Lee emphasized the challenge of fitting in with Rush, noting the intricate balance of technique and feel required to play their songs.
Throughout the Fifty Something tour, the band will pay tribute to Neil Peart “at least a couple of times during the show,” ensuring that his legacy remains a central part of their performances. The band aims to honor their music and Peart’s memory without attempting to replicate what had been done before, as Lee noted, “Our idea was not to try to be Rush 2.0.”
The Rush 2026 tour will visit the following cities:
Sun Jun 7, Los Angeles, CA - Kia Forum Tue Jun 9, Los Angeles, CA - Kia Forum Thu Jun 18, Mexico City, MX - Palacio de los Deportes Wed Jun 24, Fort Worth, TX - Dickies Arena Fri Jun 26, Fort Worth, TX - Dickies Arena Thu Jul 16, Chicago, IL - United Center Sat Jul 18, Chicago, IL - United Center Tue Jul 28, New York, NY - Madison Square Garden Thu Jul 30, New York, NY - Madison Square Garden Fri Aug 7, Toronto, ON - Scotiabank Arena Sun Aug 9, Toronto, ON - Scotiabank Arena Thu Sep 17, Cleveland, OH - Rocket ArenaFans eager to attend the Fifty Something tour can participate in the Rush artist presale by signing up before Thursday at 11:59 p.m. ET. For Ticketmaster’s artist presales, no code is needed as access is linked to user accounts. However, a code will be required for the SeatGeek presale specifically for the Cleveland concert.
This tour promises to be a remarkable celebration of Rush's enduring legacy, and fans can look forward to experiencing the legendary music live once again.
