Rush reunite with Anika Nilles as new drummer
Bassist Geddy Lee and guitarist Alex Lifeson recently officially announced that Rush is returning for their first tour since 2015. This will mark first official tour since drummer Neil Peart passed away in 2020. Following discussions and speculations among fans and the press, the legendary progressive rock trio will be joined by touring drummer Anika Nilles, who will take Peart’s place behind the kit.
Anike Nilles introduced as new guitarist
“It’s been over 10 years since Alex and I have performed the music of Rush alongside our fallen bandmate and friend Neil,” Geddy said in a statement shared through the band’s official website.
Revealing that the tour will take place in 2026, Geddy added that he and Lifeson will use the opportunity “to pay tribute to our past and to Neil by performing a vast selection of Rush songs in a handful of cities.” Expectedly, it’s “no small task” as the bassist explained, ” because, as we all know, Neil was irreplaceable.”
Lee opened up on the new drummer and stated:
“Her name is Anika Nilles, and we could not be more excited to introduce her to our loyal and dedicated Rush fanbase, whom, we know, will give her every chance to live up to that near impossible role.”
There’ll also be “another musician or two to expand our sound a wee bit and free up Alex and I, in order to show off some of our new fancy dance steps.”
Here are five videos that show you why Anika Milles is perfect replacement for Neil Peart. It’s probably the toughest drummer replacement gig in rock history, and Rush could have gone with bigger names like Dave Grohl, Danny Carey, or Jimmy Chamberlin. Rush choosing Anika shows the care they put into a search for a new drummer, and that they may want a drummer who can tour consistently with Rush in the coming years before their inevitable retirement.
Rush drummer Anika Milles’ best performances
Wild Boy – This is Anika’s submission for the finals of the 2014 Hit Like A Girl Contest. Anika got the judges commenting that “she looks so comfortable”, “she sounds like a professional”, and “Anika is going to be one of those diamonds in the rough”.
Alter Ego – This video marked the beginning of her rise to stardom! Anika wrote this original song, which has garnered over a million views, propelling her into the spotlight and launching her career in the music industry. It captivated audiences not only with her precise and complex playing but also with her songwriting talent.
Chary Life – This is another original tune by Anika, performed at the 2015 Meinl Drum Festival. In the same style as her two previous songs, Chary Life solidified Anika’s status of being able to consistently put out catchy, groovy songs.
Have You – Played with her new band, Nevell! With their new album set to release by early 2016, this song gives us a great taste of what we can expect. With a tour following soon after, Anika will be on stage performing the new songs with bandmates Frank Itt (bass guitar), Joachim Schneiss (guitars), and Daniel Hofstaetter (keys).
Synergy – This is similar to her previous songs, this tune contains elements of pop, rock, and fusion while still having its own stamp of originality. Synergy will be appearing on her upcoming album.
