RUSH is gearing up for a highly anticipated reunion tour, and Geddy Lee is shedding light on the meticulous process behind crafting the setlist. In a recent interview with Rick Beato, Lee revealed that the band is starting from scratch, meticulously curating a 38-song playlist for their 'Fifty Something' tour. This approach is a stark contrast to their previous tour preparations, where they had the benefit of four months of pre-production.
The band's challenge lies in teaching their new drummer, Anika Nilles, the intricacies of their extensive song catalog. Lee humorously notes that this task is akin to teaching a talented drummer from a different musical background the nuances of a 'weird, idiosyncratic band.' Nilles steps into the legendary shoes of the late Neil Peart, who passed away in 2020, and Lee confirms that she was the only drummer they auditioned for this role.
The setlist, carefully crafted from 45 initial songs, will be performed over multiple nights in each city, offering fans a diverse and engaging experience. Lee's insight into the process highlights the band's dedication to delivering a high-quality performance, even when starting from scratch. This meticulous approach is a testament to RUSH's commitment to their art and their fans.
The interview also sheds light on the band's unique dynamics and the process of selecting songs for their tours. Lee's perspective on the challenges of teaching a new drummer and the band's approach to setlists offers a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of RUSH. As the tour approaches, fans can anticipate a memorable and emotionally charged experience, marked by the band's unwavering dedication to their craft and their fans.
In my opinion, RUSH's decision to start from scratch with their setlist is a bold move that showcases their commitment to innovation and artistic integrity. It's a refreshing approach in an industry often driven by nostalgia, and it's exciting to see the band embrace change while staying true to their roots. The 'Fifty Something' tour promises to be a testament to RUSH's enduring legacy and their ability to evolve while staying true to their unique sound.
