RUSH Revives Name for 2026 Tour Amidst Legacy Considerations

In a recent interview with U.K.'s Classic Rock magazine, RUSH bassist and vocalist Geddy Lee discussed the decision to tour under the RUSH name in 2026, despite the absence of late drummer Neil Peart. Lee acknowledged that the choice was a topic of considerable debate within the band, stating, “What else do you f**king call it?” He emphasized that while the band had previously maintained that RUSH could only exist with Peart, the upcoming tour would feature approximately 40 RUSH songs, making it impractical to present the project under a different name.

GEDDY LEE On Using The RUSH Name For Upcoming Tour: ‘What The F**k Should We Call It, IRON MAIDEN?’GEDDY LEE Explains Decision To Use RUSH Name For Upcoming Tour: 'What The F*** Should We Call It, IRON MAIDEN?'Geddy Lee Defends Rush: ‘What The F*** Should We Call It’

Lee and guitarist Alex Lifeson received the blessing from Peart's family to proceed with the RUSH name, which they have used for over five decades. He remarked, “We were twisting ourselves into a pretzel to try to avoid using the name that we have had for fifty years.” The decision reflects a desire to honor their legacy while also being transparent about the music fans can expect to hear.

Geddy Lee Defends Rush: ‘What The F*** Should We Call It’

The 2026 tour, titled "Fifty Something," will mark RUSH's first official shows under the band name in 11 years, beginning in June at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles, the site of their last concert during the "R40" anniversary tour. The initial leg of the tour includes 58 shows across 24 cities in North America, with over half a million tickets already sold. Following the North American dates, RUSH plans to extend the tour to South America and Europe in early 2027, which will be their first European performances since 2013 and a return to South America after 17 years.

GEDDY LEE On Using The RUSH Name For Upcoming Tour: ‘What The F**k Should We Call It, IRON MAIDEN?’

Joining Lee and Lifeson on stage will be German drummer Anika Nilles and keyboardist Loren Gold, who has previously toured with The Who and Chicago. The band made a surprise return to the stage at the Juno Awards in Hamilton, Ontario, where they performed "Finding My Way," showcasing Nilles' integration into the band's sound.

GEDDY LEE On Using The RUSH Name For Upcoming Tour: ‘What The F**k Should We Call It, IRON MAIDEN?’

Despite the excitement surrounding the tour, some fans remain apprehensive about RUSH performing without Peart. The decision to continue under the RUSH name has sparked mixed reactions, with some supporters feeling that the legacy of the original lineup is being compromised. However, Lee's perspective emphasizes the importance of authenticity in representing the band's extensive catalog.

GEDDY LEE Explains Decision To Use RUSH Name For Upcoming Tour: 'What The F*** Should We Call It, IRON MAIDEN?'

Lee articulated the rationale behind the decision, stating, “Let’s cut to the chase, shall we? Let’s just be who we are and have been for over fifty years.” This sentiment underscores the band's commitment to honoring Peart's legacy while also celebrating their musical history.

GEDDY LEE On Using The RUSH Name For Upcoming Tour: ‘What The F**k Should We Call It, IRON MAIDEN?’

As RUSH prepares for the "Fifty Something" tour, the band is focused on delivering a unique concert experience that highlights their extensive catalog. The upcoming shows aim to balance nostalgia with a fresh approach, ensuring that fans can enjoy the music they love while respecting the band's storied past.

GEDDY LEE Explains Decision To Use RUSH Name For Upcoming Tour: 'What The F*** Should We Call It, IRON MAIDEN?'