Rush Expands Reunion Tour to Europe & South America for 2027 Shows

Rush brings their legendary reunion tour to Europe and South America in 2027, featuring a fresh lineup and exciting new setlists.

A Legendary Reunion Grows Even Bigger

There’s a special kind of magic when a band like Rush gets back on the road, especially after so many years. Fans rejoiced when Rush announced their Fifty Something reunion tour, but the excitement has only grown as they’ve expanded the run into 2027 with fresh dates in South America, the U.K., and Europe. This next chapter kicks off January 15 in Buenos Aires and will wrap up April 10 in Helsinki — a journey stretching over three months and a total of 58 shows when including previously scheduled 2026 concerts.

Rush's Alex Lifeson and Geddy Lee jamming with Matt Stone at Red Rocks, August 2022 (photo: Kevin Mazur / Getty Images for Comedy Central)

This tour marks a poignant moment in Rush’s storied career. It’s their first major outing since the passing of their legendary drummer Neil Peart in 2020. Filling his monumental shoes is German drummer Anika Nilles, a remarkable talent who has already won over the band and fans alike. But that’s not all — for the first time ever, keyboardist Loren Gold, known for his work with The Who and Roger Daltrey’s solo projects, will be joining the lineup on stage. Talk about upping the ante!

The tour will feature two sets per night, with a powerful start in Los Angeles at the Kia Forum on June 7, 9, 11, and 13 before heading overseas. The band is determined to keep the shows fresh and dynamic, with a setlist planning to span roughly 40 songs, giving fans a unique experience at each show.

Reviving the Rush Spirit: What the Band Says

Geddy Lee captured the sentiment perfectly in his recent statement:

“We can’t wait to get back to all these cities we haven’t played in so long, as well as hitting some new places we’ve yet to play. Both Alex and I are loving the hours of rehearsal time we’re spending with Anika and now Loren, learning around 40 songs which will enable us to keep the shows evolving [and play] some different songs on different nights. We are thrilled that many of our longstanding crew have come back to help us design the kind of Rush show that fans have grown accustomed to expect from us. We dearly hope you will come along and help us celebrate 50 years of Rush music, while giving Neil the long overdue tribute he so richly deserves.”

That last part really hits home. Neil Peart wasn’t just a drummer; he was the heartbeat and soul of Rush’s sound and identity. This tour is both a celebration and a heartfelt tribute to his legacy.

The Sound of Reunion: Behind the Scenes

After Neil’s passing, Lee and Lifeson didn’t just jump back in lightly. Their first jams without Peart were a mix of excitement and nerves. In an interview, Lifeson recounted their early rehearsals:

“It’s immensely satisfying to play these songs. Of course, the problem was, we didn’t have a drummer.”

They started off with the classic “Freewill,” but after nearly a decade apart, they laughed off how rusty they felt at first. It was a real question: Would they go through with the tour or just leave it as a fond memory?

Lee shared his practical take:

“We’re not getting any younger. If we’re going to do it, let’s do it now, or let’s just not do it.”

The search for the perfect drummer led them to Anika Nilles, recommended by Lee’s bass tech. After five days of jamming in Toronto, the decision was clear: Anika was the right fit. Lee praised her talents and readiness to embrace the inevitable scrutiny from Rush’s demanding fanbase. So far, the reception has been very warm.

Crafting the Ultimate Rush Experience

Lee and Lifeson are pouring their energy into making this tour not just a nostalgia trip, but a fully realized Rush experience that honors their past while embracing the present. They’re working hard to design a show that lives up to their high standards and fans’ expectations, mixing classic hits with surprises.

Anika has learned about 25 songs already, with plans to expand to around 40, allowing for around 40% of the setlist to change night to night. That’s a dream for fans who want to catch multiple shows without hearing the same thing twice.

Lifeson summed up their dedication:

“We just really want to be at our absolute peak by the time we start the tour in earnest.”

And Lee chimed in with his trademark straightforwardness:

“We’re just gonna make sure that it’s frickin’ note-perfect.”

The band is also excited about integrating new technology into their performances, promising a fresh and immersive experience for audiences around the world.

A Tour to Remember

This reunion isn’t just a concert series; it’s a celebration of 50 years of Rush music, legacy, and friendship. For those of us who grew up with their records spinning on repeat or discovered them along the way, these shows offer a chance to reconnect with the band’s extraordinary catalog and witness this iconic lineup in action one more time.

And with the addition of Loren Gold’s keyboards and Anika Nilles holding down the drums, the sound promises to be as vibrant and powerful as ever.

FAQ

• Will Neil Peart’s drumming be featured during the tour?
  Yes, the band is dedicating a nightly tribute to Neil Peart to honor his incredible legacy.
• Who is the new drummer for Rush?
  German drummer Anika Nilles has joined the band for this reunion tour.
• Will the setlist vary from night to night?
  Absolutely! They plan to perform around 40 songs with 40% of the setlist changing during the tour.
• Is keyboardist Loren Gold a permanent member?
  Loren Gold joins Rush on this tour, bringing his extensive experience with The Who and Roger Daltrey.
• When and where does the 2027 tour start and end?
  The tour begins January 15 in Buenos Aires and concludes April 10 in Helsinki.

Celebrate the timeless music of Rush by decorating your space with a stunning album cover poster. Check out our collection and bring a piece of rock history home today at Architeg Prints.