Geddy Lee recently commented on Rush’s upcoming “Fifty Something” reunion tour, sharing details about the band’s ambitious setlist strategy in a statement shared on Rolling Stone.
Lee explained that the band is preparing an extensive collection of songs to keep performances fresh across multiple shows in the same city. The setlist will feature over 38 songs, with plans to rotate selections throughout the tour.
“I don’t really want to give our setlist away because we are learning at the moment our set list contains over 38 songs, because we plan on changing the set every night,” Lee said. “There will be a large percentage of songs that we will switch between nights.”
He emphasized the variety fans can expect from attending multiple shows. The band will maintain core favorites while introducing different selections each night.
“So if you come to say four shows in Toronto, you’re going to hear four different sets. That’s going to include a lot of songs, obviously. They are obviously the big favorites that you sort of have to have in the set list every night. But we really want to keep the set fresh. And right now, I’m working on five different sets for the shows. So we’re going to move things around quite a bit and have a lot of fun, and hopefully that’ll keep Alex and I fresh.”
This approach reflects the band’s commitment to maintaining energy and engagement throughout the tour. It delivers a dynamic experience for longtime fans.
The “Fifty Something” reunion tour marks Rush’s first major tour in over a decade. It celebrates more than 50 years of the legendary progressive rock band’s history. Rush’s official website indicates the tour is scheduled to begin in June 2026, with the opening show at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles on June 7. The tour has already expanded significantly due to high demand, with numerous North American dates added across major cities including Toronto, Montreal, New York, and Vancouver.
The reunion lineup features Geddy Lee on vocals, bass, and keyboards alongside guitarist Alex Lifeson. CityNews Kitchener reported that the band has brought in drummer Anika Nilles to fill the role left vacant by the late Neil Peart, who passed away in 2020. This marks a significant moment for the band as they return to the stage with a new drummer while honoring Peart’s legacy.
The tour’s ambitious setlist strategy aligns with Rush’s reputation for delivering comprehensive, career-spanning performances. Ultimate Classic Rock noted that the band plans to perform two sets nightly. This allows them to showcase an expansive repertoire that spans their entire 50+ year catalog. The format enables the rotating setlist approach that Lee described, ensuring fans attending multiple shows will experience distinctly different performances.
With the “Fifty Something” theme at the heart of the tour, Rush aims to celebrate their enduring legacy. They also aim to introduce their music to both longtime devotees and new generations of fans. The combination of classic Rush material, tributes to Neil Peart, and the dynamic setlist rotation promises to make each night of the tour a unique experience.
