Rush's Enduring Friendship Sparks Monumental Comeback Tour
In a heartfelt interview, Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson of the legendary Canadian prog-rock band Rush opened up about their unbreakable bond, which has propelled them back into the spotlight after the tragic loss of drummer Neil Peart in 2020. The duo, who have been friends for six decades, are embarking on a mammoth global tour, adding 24 European and South American shows to 58 already announced North American arena dates, with UK performances scheduled for March 2027.
A Friendship Forged in Laughter and Music
Lee and Lifeson first met in junior high school, where their shared sense of humor and mutual admiration laid the foundation for a lifelong partnership. "He's the funniest guy I've ever known, and I make him laugh, too," Lee remarked, with Lifeson nodding enthusiastically. Their camaraderie is so profound that Lee exclaimed, "Everybody wants to have a bestie like this guy!" This deep connection is the driving force behind Rush's reunion, as they missed playing together as friends more than they missed the band itself.
Overcoming Loss and Embracing Change
Following Peart's death, many assumed Rush would never reform. However, spontaneous jamming sessions and a tribute concert for Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins in 2022 reignited their passion. "I told Al: 'Look, we're either doing this or we're not doing it. I can't talk about it every two years. Because time marches on and I don't know how much time we have,'" Lee explained. The biggest challenge was filling Peart's drum stool, a role described as akin to replacing Babe Ruth in baseball.
They selected 42-year-old German drummer Anika Nilles, who impressed them with her technical prowess and work ethic after a week of auditions. "She suddenly understood what we were talking about that whole week," Lifeson said, "not about the technical aspect, but about the stuff in between the big stuff, that Neil was just so amazing at." Nilles is gradually integrating into their close-knit friendship, much like Peart did when he joined in 1974.
Evolution and Adaptation Through Decades
Rush's journey from a blues-rock band to prog-rock icons was marked by constant evolution. Peart's lyrical shift from fantasy themes to personal narratives, such as in the hit "Subdivisions," reflected the band's growth. Their friendship allowed them to navigate challenges, like Lifeson's frustration with reduced guitar roles in the 80s and Peart's stylistic reinvention in the 2000s. "For us not to be open to this change would have been antithetical," Lee noted, highlighting their collaborative spirit.
Legacy of Love and Nerdy Passion
The band's resurgence is fueled not only by their mutual affection but also by fan admiration for their authenticity and dedication. "People found their friendship to be very moving," Lee observed, with social media responses to their posts often going viral. Despite differences—Lifeson's emotional outbursts and Lee's rational control—their bond remains unshakable. "We will sit with our heads together, immersed in our own private party," Lee admitted, illustrating their inseparable nature.
Rush's tour kicks off in Los Angeles on June 7, with European dates beginning in Paris on February 19, 2027. This reunion stands as a testament to the power of friendship in the face of loss, celebrating a legacy that continues to inspire rock enthusiasts worldwide.
