Anika Nilles Steps Into Rush's Legacy | Rock Music News

Rush is electrifying the stage again with their “Fifty Something” tour, now featuring powerhouse new drummer Anika Nilles—once a Jeff Beck sideman and personally praised by Geddy Lee as “terrific.” Stepping into Neil Peart’s legendary shoes, she nailed the iconic “Tom Sawyer” fill live, whispering nervously just seconds before—“Don’t mess it up”—before delivering a flawless, crowd-rousing performance. Geddy raves about her chemistry with the band, especially her infectious energy and eye contact, calling her a refreshing new spark. Though she grew up on rock and knew Peart’s genius through “Tom Sawyer,” she’s only recently dove deep into Rush’s catalog, approaching each song with reverence, studying arrangements and deciding where to honor tradition—and where to inject her own voice. It’s a meticulous, feel-driven process that’s already transforming Rush’s sound. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/9be48f1b677e68d2