Geddy Lee recently opened up about Rush’s return with new drummer Anika Nilles. He shared his thoughts on how late bandmate Neil Peart might react to the band’s choice, in a statement featured on 92.9 The Grand.
The Rush frontman reflected on Peart’s irreplaceable legacy while discussing the band’s decision to continue making music with their new drummer.
“Neil is irreplaceable. And if he had something to say to us right now, he’d probably say, ‘You guys are idiots,'” Lee said. “But music lives beyond tragedy, beyond anything that can happen in your life.”
Lee continued to express his belief that Peart would approve of their choice to move forward with Nilles.
“One thing we’ve learned over the last 10 years is that music is still a part of us, and so to play it now with someone as young and exciting as Anika, it’s just another tribute to him,” he continued. “I think he’d be very pleased with our choice of drummer, and I think he would have a bit of a smirk on his face. A thumbs up, I hope.”
The selection of Nilles represents a significant moment for Rush as they navigate their future without their legendary drummer who passed away in January 2020.
Fathom Journal reported that Anika Nilles is a German drummer, composer, and educator who built her following through precise, groove-heavy playing that mixes technical skill with musical taste. Her unconventional path to the Rush drum stool began long before she was sharing stages with icons. TBS News noted she was working as a preschool teacher before her drumming career took off.
The connection between Nilles and Rush came through Lee’s guitar tech, who recommended her after working with her on Jeff Beck’s tour. This recommendation proved crucial in bringing the German drummer into the legendary Canadian rock trio’s orbit.
Despite her impressive credentials, Nilles initially showed hesitation when approaching some of Rush’s most iconic material. Guitar Player revealed she had a moment of uncertainty before tackling the Rush classic “Tom Sawyer,” saying “Yikes. I don’t know if I want to play this one,” due to its strong ties to Peart’s legacy.
However, Lee noted that Nilles has since overcome her initial apprehension and is now “just grooving out” with the material. This development suggests that the band’s collaboration with their new drummer is progressing smoothly as they pursue their return to touring with Lee and guitarist Alex Lifeson.
