Rush Returns to Madison Square Garden with New Drummer Anika Nilles

Rush, the legendary Canadian rock band, made a triumphant return to Madison Square Garden in New York City on Thursday, August 1, 2026, for the second night of their 'Fifty Something' tour. This marks the first time since 2015 that Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson have performed as Rush, following the death of drummer Neil Peart in 2020. The band is now accompanied by drummer Anika Nilles and keyboardist Loren Gold. The three-hour set included classics such as 'Xanadu,' 'The Spirit of Radio,' 'Subdivisions,' 'Freewill,' 'The Trees,' 'Limelight,' the epic '2112' suite, 'Closer to the Heart,' 'Red Barchetta,' and 'Tom Sawyer.' Five songs from the 'Moving Pictures' album, which turned 45 this year, were performed. The memory of Peart was honored with archival footage during 'Bravado' and 'Time Stand Still.' The encore featured 'Finding My Way' and 'Working Man' from their 1974 debut, with a tribute to original drummer John Rutsey. Nilles' drumming, especially her solo on 'Tom Sawyer,' was a highlight. The band will return to Madison Square Garden on Saturday, August 3, and Monday, August 5, for additional shows.