Rush frontman Geddy Lee recently shared insights about the band’s new drummer Anika Nilles and her initial reaction to performing one of their most iconic songs. This was revealed in an interview with Planet Rock.
Lee discussed how Nilles wasn’t extensively familiar with Rush’s catalog when she joined the band. He described her nervous reaction to playing “Tom Sawyer” for the first time.
“No, she [Anika Nilles] didn’t know our music very well,” Lee said. “She knew, of course, a couple of the big songs. And of course, every drummer on Earth knew Neil and his reputation. Very respected. She knew ‘Tom Sawyer,’ and when we were going to play it for the first time, she just stopped and said, ‘Yikes. I don’t know if I want to play this one.'”
Lee explained how they worked through Nilles’ initial hesitation and what aspects of the song proved most challenging.
“She was kind of nervous because of the importance of that,” he continued. “But we talked through it, we worked through it. And the fills were not the hardest part for her. She could play those, no problem. But it’s the feel, sitting in that groove that that song has. She’s clued in now, really lovely to see.”
Nilles’ journey to becoming Rush’s touring drummer represents a significant transition for both the band and the accomplished musician herself.
Blabbermouth reported that Nilles is an award-winning fusion drummer known for her sound that blends jazz, funk, rock, and pop elements. Her diverse musical background has made her a respected figure in the drumming community. Her technical prowess extends far beyond traditional rock music.
The selection process for Rush’s new drummer was notably secretive and thorough. RetroRock Radio revealed that the band secretly rehearsed with Nilles in a Canadian studio for a week to test their chemistry and musical compatibility. This intensive trial period allowed both parties to assess whether the collaboration would work for future touring commitments.
Nilles has been candid about her relationship with Rush’s music prior to joining the band. Metal Wani noted that she admitted “I wasn’t really a fan” of Rush before becoming their touring drummer. However, her background in progressive symphonic music likely eased the transition into Rush’s complex musical arrangements. This helped her adapt to their distinctive style.
The addition of Nilles to Rush’s touring lineup marks a new chapter for the legendary Canadian trio. They continue to honor their musical legacy while embracing fresh perspectives from accomplished musicians who bring their own unique approaches to the band’s iconic catalog.
