After more than a decade off the stage, the iconic rock band Rush made a triumphant return to touring on Sunday, June 7. This marked the start of their Fifty Something tour at a packed venue in Los Angeles. It is the band’s first concert tour since they concluded their previous one in August 2015.
The event held special significance for fans, as it represented the first time members Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson have toured together following the death of their renowned drummer, Neil Peart, in 2020. Anika Nilles, a well-received drumming talent, stepped in to fill Peart’s shoes, adding her dynamic touch to the band’s performance.
Setlist Highlights
Fans experienced a nostalgic journey through Rush’s hit tracks. According to Setlist.fm, the band opened with “Xanadu,” a track from their 1977 album “A Farewell To Kings.” This marked the first time Rush commenced a tour with this song, adding to the evening’s unique feel.
The setlist for the concert also included fan favorites like “Limelight,” “Freewill,” and “The Spirit of the Radio.” In the second set, attendees enjoyed selections from the 1976 album “2112,” such as “Overture” and “Grand Finale.” The band concluded their performance with a special introduction by characters from the TV show South Park, leading into the night’s expected finale: “Tom Sawyer.”
Honoring Neil Peart
A poignant moment came when Rush paid tribute to Peart with a video montage. The footage included audio of Peart discussing his journey of discovering the drums and his passion for playing. Additionally, the band dedicated “Bravado” from the album “Roll the Bones” to their late drummer, making it a heartfelt homage that resonated with the audience.