In a landmark announcement that has electrified the rock world, surviving Rush members Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson have confirmed they will tour in 2026 under the Rush banner. The news, which many fans believed would never come, was confirmed this morning in a joint statement on the band’s official website.
For years, the book on Rush was considered firmly closed following their final R40 Live tour in 2015 and the tragic passing of legendary drummer and lyricist Neil Peart in 2020. Lee and Lifeson have been clear that the iconic trinity could never be replicated. However, this new chapter is not about replacement, but a celebration of their enduring legacy.
A Tribute, Not a Replacement: The ‘A Celebration of Rush‘ Tour
The upcoming tour is officially titled “A Celebration of Rush,” framing it as a heartfelt tribute to their monumental catalogue and a thank you to the fans who have kept the music alive.
“For the longest time, we couldn’t imagine it,” stated vocalist and bassist Geddy Lee in the announcement. “The thought of being on stage without Neil was just unthinkable. But as time has passed, we’ve felt the enduring power of these songs… This isn’t about replacing the irreplaceable; it’s about honouring the music we all created together.”
Guitarist Alex Lifeson shared a similar sentiment. “Ged and I started jamming again, just for us. The joy was still there. That spark. We owe it to Neil, to his memory, and to our fans to let this music soar one more time. He would have wanted the songs to live on.”
The Question on Every Fan’s Mind: Who Will Play Drums?
The most pressing question—who will fill the colossal shoes of Neil Peart?—remains unanswered. The statement confirmed a drummer has not yet been named, noting the decision will be made with “the utmost care and respect for Neil’s legacy.”
Speculation is already rampant online, with names like Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater) and Danny Carey (Tool) circulating among fans. The band’s electrifying performances at the 2022 Taylor Hawkins tribute concerts, featuring drummers like Dave Grohl and Omar Hakim, proved the music’s power could be channeled through other world-class percussionists.
A Legacy for Global Fans
While Rush never toured everywhere, their influence is global, particularly on the progressive rock and metal scenes. From college hostels in the ’80s to today’s independent music circuits, the complex time signatures of “YYZ” and the philosophical depth of “2112” have been a rite of passage for countless musicians worldwide.
The hope among international fans is that a world tour of this magnitude might finally include stops in previously unvisited regions. As major international acts increasingly expand their tour maps, the possibility of seeing Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson perform Rush‘s music live has gone from a fantasy to a tangible hope for millions.
The 2026 tour promises to be an emotional and technically dazzling journey through a catalogue that has defined progressive rock for nearly half a century. While the stage will be missing one of its most iconic figures, the spirit of Rush is set to live on.
