Anika Nilles, the acclaimed German drummer chosen to sit behind the kit for Rush‘s monumental 2026 reunion tour, has released her first public statement. In a heartfelt message, she thanked Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson for their “trust” and the band’s passionate fanbase for their “kind and open-minded words,” acknowledging the “overwhelming” nature of stepping into one of the most revered roles in rock history.
The announcement on Monday, October 6, that Nilles would be the drummer for the “Fifty Something” tour, a tribute to the band’s catalog and the late Neil Peart, was met with massive excitement from the music community. Now, the 42-year-old virtuoso has shared her own thoughts on the incredible opportunity.
Her full statement, posted on Thursday, October 9, reads:
“Hey there, the past few days have been quite overwhelming. I’m sure many of you feel the same.”
“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.”
Nilles is a world-renowned drummer with a massive online following, several acclaimed solo albums, and an impressive resume that includes touring with the late guitar legend Jeff Beck. Her selection was even foreshadowed by Geddy Lee himself, who, in a 2023 interview with The Guardian, praised her playing, calling her “terrific.”
The “Fifty Something” tour marks the first time Lee and Lifeson will tour together under the Rush banner in 11 years. The run has been structured as a series of multi-night residencies in major North American cities.
Anika Nilles‘s graceful and grateful first statement has been warmly received by the Rush community.
Rush – “Fifty Something” 2026 Tour Dates:
- June 7, 9, 11, 13 – Los Angeles, CA – Kia Forum
- June 18 – Mexico City, MX – Palacio de los Deportes
- June 24, 26, 28, 30 – Fort Worth, TX – Dickies Arena
- July 16, 18, 20, 22 – Chicago, IL – United Center
- July 28, 30, Aug. 1, 3 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden
- Aug. 7, 9, 11, 13 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena
- Sep. 17, 19 – Cleveland, OH – Rocket Arena
