Few bands in rock history have maintained the kind of creative energy and loyalty that Rush commands. With their “Fifty Something” reunion tour on the horizon, frontman Geddy Lee has confirmed that the legendary Canadian trio will take a bold approach to their live shows. In a recent statement shared with Rolling Stone, Lee revealed that Rush is working on an ambitious setlist plan that will change from night to night—something that’s bound to excite fans attending multiple shows.
Lee explained that the band is preparing a massive selection of more than 38 songs to rotate throughout the tour. Rather than relying on the same fixed sequence each night, Rush will blend fan favorites with deeper cuts to keep things unpredictable. “We plan on changing the set every night,” Lee said. “If you come to four shows in Toronto, you’re going to hear four different sets.” It’s an undertaking that reflects Rush’s signature mix of discipline and daring.
This creative approach also keeps things fresh for the band members themselves. As Lee noted, he’s currently working on five different set variations to rotate throughout the tour. “We’re going to move things around quite a bit and have a lot of fun,” he said, adding that the plan helps him and guitarist Alex Lifeson stay energized and engaged across the extensive run of shows.
Celebrating Half a Century of Rush
The “Fifty Something” tour marks Rush’s first major outing in more than a decade, celebrating over 50 years of their genre-defining career. The tour kicks off on June 7, 2026, at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles and will expand across North America, with stops in Toronto, Montreal, New York, and Vancouver among many others. Demand has already pushed the band to add additional shows in several cities.
For longtime fans, the tour represents more than just nostalgia—it’s a rare opportunity to experience the band’s full musical evolution in a live setting. From early progressive epics like 2112 and Hemispheres to later hits such as Tom Sawyer and Time Stand Still, Rush is expected to showcase their expansive discography through their multi-set format.
The decision to revisit their extensive catalog underscores the tour’s mission: to celebrate Rush’s enduring influence while pushing the boundaries of what a reunion tour can be. It’s a fitting tribute to a band that has always prioritized musical growth and innovation over comfort or predictability.
A New Era Without Neil Peart
The “Fifty Something” tour will also carry emotional weight. It’s Rush’s first return to the stage since the passing of drummer and lyricist Neil Peart in 2020, a loss that deeply affected both the band and its fans. Filling his iconic role behind the kit is acclaimed German drummer Anika Nilles, whose technical mastery and dynamic style have earned her widespread respect in the drumming community.
CityNews Kitchener reported that the band personally selected Nilles for her precision, creativity, and ability to honor Peart’s intricate rhythms while adding her own flair. It’s an unenviable position, but Nilles’ inclusion symbolizes a thoughtful continuation rather than a replacement. As Lee and Lifeson reunite onstage, her presence ensures the band can move forward while still paying tribute to their late friend and bandmate.
This careful balance—honoring the past while embracing the future—sits at the heart of Rush’s return. The reunion isn’t simply about revisiting glory days; it’s about preserving the band’s legacy through living, evolving performances that still feel vital in 2026.
Keeping the Spirit Alive for a New Generation
Rush’s evolving setlist concept not only rewards die-hard fans but also helps introduce their music to newer audiences. By mixing classic staples with rotating deep cuts, the band offers a fresh entry point for younger listeners who may be discovering Rush for the first time. Each night will feel distinct, ensuring that every performance stands as its own celebration of musical craftsmanship and endurance.
According to Ultimate Classic Rock, the band plans to perform two sets each night, giving them space to highlight different eras of their sound—from the elaborate prog rock of the ‘70s to the sleek synth textures of the ‘80s and the hard-edged rock of their later years. It’s a testament to their versatility and their desire to keep fans guessing.
As the “Fifty Something” tour approaches, anticipation is running high. With a rotating setlist, a powerful new lineup, and a renewed sense of purpose, Rush is poised to deliver one of the most dynamic and emotionally resonant tours of their career. For fans both old and new, every show promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.