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Rock legends Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson opened up about Rush’s long-awaited return to performing in an extensive new interview. The Canadian progressive rock duo sat down to discuss their triumphant four-night stand at Los Angeles’ Kia Forum in June, which marked the band’s first performances since 2015 and their first without late drummer and lyricist Neil Peart, who passed away in January 2020.
The comeback shows introduced significant changes to Rush’s lineup, featuring touring drummer Anika Nilles and keyboardist Loren Gold, expanding the group to four members for the first time in its history. The performances kicked off the Fifty Something Tour and debuted four rotating setlists throughout the residency. Despite the considerable pressure surrounding the shows, Lee and Lifeson reflected positively on the experience, describing opening night as surprisingly smooth once they engaged with the audience.
In the in-depth discussion, conducted shortly after the Los Angeles shows concluded, the musicians explored the emotional and practical challenges of reviving the band following Peart’s death. They discussed topics including Lifeson’s previous hesitations about touring and his recent decision to abstain from cannabis during the tour preparation. The candid conversation provided fans with rare insight into how Rush navigated one of rock music’s most difficult comebacks.
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Originally reported by Rollingstone →
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