GLAAD – the world’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) media advocacy organization – today announced a star-studded auction in honor of #SpiritDay, supported by artists including Barbra Streisand, Olivia Rodrigo, Sam Smith, Adam Lambert, KATSEYE, FLETCHER, Chelsea Handler, Sarah Jessica Parker and more. Held annually, #SpiritDay unites against bullying and supports LGBTQ youth. 100% of the proceeds will benefit GLAAD in support of their mission to accelerate acceptance for the LGBTQ community, hosted on eBay.
Since its 2010 inception, GLAAD has orchestrated a powerful campaign and on Thursday, October 16th will once again bring together celebrities, media outlets, brands, landmarks, sports leagues, faith groups, school districts, organizations, colleges, and universities. This visible anti-LGBTQ bullying initiative sees participants go purple as a united show of support for LGBTQ youth.
Launching globally on October 6 at 12pmET/9amPT and running through October 16 at www.eBay.com/glaad, eBay shoppers will have the opportunity to bid on one-of-a-kind items and experiences from celebrity GLAAD supporters.
Auction items include:
Adam Lambert: Adam Lambert Autographed NASA Jacket from the 2019 Queen + Adam Lambert Rhapsody Tour in Houston
Atsuko Okatsuka: Two Tickets + Meet & Greet to see Atsuko Okatsuka on The Big Bowl Tour
Barbra Streisand: Signed vinyl of The Secret of Life: Partners, Volume Two by Barbra Streisand
Brandy & Monica: Two Tickets + Meet & Greet to see Brandy and Monica on The Boy Is Mine Tour!
Chelsea Handler: Two Tickets + Meet & Greet to see Chelsea Handler in Las Vegas!
FLETCHER: Collection of 5 Vinyls Autographed by FLETCHER
G Flip: Two Tickets + Meet & Greet to see G Flip at any North American tour stop
Jonathan Bennett: A personalized video call for Christmas from Jonathan Bennett
KATSEYE: Two Tix + Meet & Greet to see KATSEYE on The Beautiful Chaos Tour
Olivia Rodrigo: GUTS World Tour book autographed by Olivia Rodrigo
RK Russell: Score Four VIP Tickets to an LA Rams Game with NFL Legend RK Russell
Ronen Rubinstein: TK Strand’s Necklace from 911 Lone Star
Sam Smith: Two Tickets + Meet & Greet to see Sam Smith at their To Be Free Residency on November 21
Sarah Jessica Parker: (3) Pairs of SJP Heels Autographed by Sarah Jessica Parker
The drum track on Michael Sembello’s “Maniac” isn’t just complex — it’s chaos perfectly choreographed. Captain Pikant’s Hapax recreation proves just how wild ’80s production could get when maximalism met precision. It’s synths, sweat, and sheer adrenaline — Flashdance for the drum machine generation.
Billy Branch is excited to announce the forthcoming release of The Blues Is My Biography on November 7th. This largely autobiographical album will be the first release for Rosa’s Lounge Records, a Chicago-based label.
Billy’s latest single, unveiled today, is “Hole in My Soul.” It’s Billy’s statement about the essential importance and effect of connecting with the Blues, and features Bobby Rush contributing vocals and harmonica. “Hole In Your Soul” is an expression I’ve heard countless times over the years,” Billy states, “there was a Blues deejay in Chicago at WVON who used to say it all the time, and other artists have said it as well. It was time to put it into a song because I believe it to be true.”
The highly anticipated album, The Blues Is My Biography, was produced by Larry Batiste and recorded at Infinite Studios in Alameda, California, and JoyRide Studio in Chicago, IL. In addition to Bobby Rush, the album also features Shemekia Copeland, who adds guest vocals to “Begging For Change.” Billy’s band, The Sons of Blues, provides the instrumental accompaniment, while Larry Baptiste arranged the horns.
The music on the album runs the gamut from the soulful strains of “Toxic Strain”” and the rugged R&B that identifies “All Your Bluff,” to the propulsive pacing of “Roaches,” the resolve and reflection shared in the title track, and the tell-tale call of “The Harmonica Man.” There’s an emphatic emotion echoing through “Toxic Love,” while “Real Good Friends” comes across as a good-time, upbeat romp. “How You Living?” is a pure hip-hop gem, an ideal companion piece to “The Ballad of the Million Men,” which finds Branch and company incorporating a solid reggae rhythm. The most telling song on the album may well be “The Harmonica Man.” “It’s as autobiographical as you can get, ” Billy insists.
“Every song on this album has special meaning to me in terms of my journey,” says Billy, “This is the most important work I’ve ever done, and it’s the best work I’ve ever done as well.”
At the age of 10, Billy bought his first harmonica at Woolworth’s and taught himself to play. A few years later, he delved into the Chicago blues scene and was mentored by such iconic individuals as James Cotton, Junior Wells, Carey Bell, Willie Dixon, and Big Walter Horton. In 1975, he gained his first high-profile experience performing with the Willie Dixon Chicago Blues All-Stars, a role he held for seven years. It eventually led to his signing with Alligator Records, where he performed on 1978’s Living Chicago Blues Volume Number 3 and 1990’s Harp Attack, featuring him alongside Carey Bell, Junior Wells, and James Cotton. He calls that album “My diploma and my PhD.”
In 1977, Billy became a band leader for the first time when he formed the group The Sons of Blues. This ensemble currently includes drummer Dionte “Musik “Skinner, keyboardist Sumito Ariyoshi, aka Ariyo, bassist Ari Seder, and guitarist Giles Corey. The prestigious Chicago Blues Festival honored the band in 2007 on their 30th anniversary and again ten years later, for their 40th.
In addition to recording 15 albums with The Sons of Blues, he’s contributed harmonica playing to over 300 albums by such notables as Vince Gill, Billy Gibbons, Stephen Stills, Koko Taylor, Lonnie Brooks, Lou Rawls, Johnny Winter, Taj Mahal, Son Seals, Mike Mills of REM, Kevin Cronin of REO Speedwagon, and scores of others.
As an ambassador for the blues, he has taken his music to the People’s Republic of China a dozen times, to the halls of Parliament in Turkey, to South and Central America, Mexico, Israel, throughout Europe, Africa, and Australia. He has also performed at numerous high-profile festivals, including the Chicago Blues Festival, the Montreux Jazz Festival, the North Sea Jazz Festival, the Long Beach Blues Festival, and the San Francisco Blues Festival.
Billy is an award-winning musician, actor, and educator who carries the torch for the promotion and preservation of the blues. He’s been inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame and has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his 50-year career. He’s received an Emmy, three Grammy nominations, three Blues Music Awards, two Living Blues Awards, a pair of Keeping the Blues Alive Awards, the JJus’Blues Willie Dixon Lifetime Songwriters Award, and the Charles Walton Award for Outstanding Contribution to Black Music, to name just a few. HHe’salso served on the Grammy Board of Governors, the Board of Directors of the Little Walter Foundation, and the Blues Foundation Board of Directors.
Billy’s work has also been included in the Grammy Museum’s Woody Guthrie installation, “Songs of Conscience, Sounds of Freedom.” And he’s also received two proclamations from the City of Chicago acknowledging his ongoing commitment to maintaining the legacy of Chicago Blues.
“My wife, Rosa, keeps saying that my life is like a movie,” Billy nods. And indeed, the variety of music and messaging on the album fully reflect Billy’s commitment to craft and communication.”
NEW YEAR’S EVE LIVE: NASHVILLE’S BIG BASH is back to ring in the new year with country superstars Jason Aldean, Lainey Wilson and Bailey Zimmerman headlining the “epic” (Country Now) five-hour event. The country superstars will perform live at Nashville’s very own Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park, airing LIVE Wednesday, Dec. 31 (8:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT, 10:30 PM-1:30 AM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network, and streaming on Paramount+*.
Gospel music legend CeCe Winans will take the stage as a special guest, bringing her powerhouse vocals to the night’s festivities alongside the acclaimed Fisk Jubilee Singers, adding a soulful note to the star-studded lineup that Music City locals and visitors can enjoy for free at Bicentennial Park’s main stage. As Variety notes, “If an artist had a big year in country, they’re celebrating in Nashville.” The festivities will be capped off by the iconic Music Note drop at midnight. Last year’s event marked an all-time high for attendance, with 220,000 people gathering to see “the biggest country music concert of 2024” (American Songwriter). The five-hour broadcast will feature electrifying performances from Jason Aldean, Lainey Wilson, Bailey Zimmerman, and more, uniting country music fans for one of the nation’s largest New Year’s Eve celebrations.
While appearing on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson in March 1977, Andy Kaufman began with his timid foreign character routine — then stunned the audience with a pitch-perfect Elvis Presley impression. He nailed the jumpsuit, the voice, and the hip-swinging swagger so precisely that Elvis once called it his favorite impersonation. In three minutes, Kaufman turned comedy into magic — and the King back into legend.
Fred again.. releases new single “you’re a star” with Amyl and the Sniffers. “you’re a star” arrives as the first track from the new era of Fred’s infinite, ever-evolving USB album.
Last week, Fred announced the next run of his acclaimed USB series, revealing he will be releasing ten songs and playing ten shows in ten cities around the world across ten weeks.
Fred’s USB album originally began in 2022, featuring tracks like “Baby Again”, “Rumble” alongside Skrillex & Flowdan, “Jungle”, “leavemealone” with Baby Keem and “stayinit” with Lil Yachty, as well as remixes from Nia Archives, HAAi and Rico Nasty, before the first collection was released on vinyl as USB001 in 2024.
Abramorama announced today that it has acquired North American theatrical rights to the RadicalMedia and Oh Boy Pictures production – You Got Gold – A Celebration of John Prine. A tribute to the legendary songwriter’s life and music filmed at Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium, the doc features exclusive interviews and performances by musical luminaries including Brandi Carlile, Kacey Musgraves, Tyler Childers, The War and Treaty, Lucinda Williams, Steve Earle, Bonnie Raitt, Dwight Yoakam, Jason Isbell, Kurt Vile, Lyle Lovett, Allison Russell & JT Nero, Valerie June, Nathaniel Rateliff, The Milk Carton Kids, Swamp Dogg, I’m With Her and The Grateful Dead’s Bob Weir.
Abramorama will release You Got Gold – A Celebration of John Prine in theaters beginning with a week-long engagement at the QUAD in NYC on November 28th followed by bookings across North America and in select North American territories. The film world premiered at the Nashville Film Festival to a sold-out audience last month.
“John Prine was one of America’s most beloved storytellers,” said Richard Abramowitz, Founder and Karol Martesko-Fenster, CEO of Abramorama. “And this film captures something truly special—the moment when a community came together to celebrate an irreplaceable voice. We’re honored to be bringing this superb concert film to audiences in the most meaningful place they can experience it – in theaters.”
You Got Gold began as a memorial concert series organized by Fiona Whelan Prine to celebrate her late husband after he passed from COVID-related complications in April 2020. The inaugural event brought together acclaimed artists, friends, and family to share behind-the-scenes stories and perform classic songs, honoring Prine’s enduring legacy. Oh Boy Pictures in partnership with Radical Media captured the special magic of this annual gathering by documenting the first concert in October 2022. The film is produced by Fiona Whelan Prine, Dave Sirulnick, and Samantha Mustari directed by Michael John Warren, andexecutive produced by Jon Kamen, Meredith Bennett, Jack Prine, Jody Whelan, Eileen Tilson and Robert Meitus.
“When John passed, we couldn’t mourn together in the way we and his community needed to,” said Fiona Whelan Prine. “This film documents that long-awaited moment when we finally came together at the Ryman—John’s favorite stage—to honor him with his songs, music, stories and love. I’m grateful to everyone who shared their talent and their hearts to celebrate John’s legacy, and I’m thrilled that audiences everywhere will now have the chance to experience this special night.”
You Got Gold will have its Nashville theatrical premiere on October 9th at Nashville’s Belcourt Theater, following its screening at the 2025 Nashville Film Festival. This will be followed by another all-star concert at the Ryman on October 10th, the fourth and final concert in the memorial series. The Belcourt Theater will also host screenings throughout the remainder of the year and into 2026 for Prine’s dedicated fanbase. Oh Boy Records plans premium digital releases of Prine’s music, as well as other rarities and collectibles to be announced.
“John Prine’s influence on American music is immeasurable, said executive producer Jon Kamen. “This film preserves not just incredible performances, but the intimate stories and connections that reveal why John’s songs continue to resonate with everyone from iconic artists to fans of Americana music.”
John Prine is considered one of America’s greatest songwriters, beloved by artists like Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash, Bette Midler, and Bruce Springsteen. In his distinguished career, John won four GRAMMYS and the GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award. He was a three-time recipient of the Artist of the Year Award at the Americana Music Honors & Awards, which also honored him with the Lifetime Achievement Award for Songwriting. He won the PEN/New England Song Lyrics of Literary Excellence Award and was enshrined in the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
John Prine passed away on April 7, 2020, due to complications from Covid, and the outpouring of grief and love from his fan community was staggering. Over 500,000 viewers participated in an online memorial tribute that raised $500k for Covid-related community relief efforts. The Prine family also established the nonprofit, The Hello in There Foundation; combined, these efforts have led to grants of over $2 million.
Abramorama has continued its streak of successful releases, including this summer’s hit The Last Class, Elliot Kirschner’s documentary on economist and former U.S. Secretary of Labor Robert Reich, which is breaking records across the country and has now surpassed $700,000 at the box office in its 15thweek of release. Next up is the Richard Gere and Oren Moverman executive produced Wisdom of Happiness. In addition to the film’s theatrical run, Abramorama is hosting a special one-night-only coast-to-coast screening event on Thursday, October 16, 2025. The film will be introduced by Gere and followed by a live panel discussion with Gere and other to-be-announced guests. The film and discussion will be transmitted live to theaters nationwide via the Digital Cinema Distribution Coalition (DCDC Network) in partnership with Abramorama and take2productions, giving audiences across the country a rare chance to experience the film collectively on the big screen. Recently Abramorama announced the acquisition of Steve Schapiro: Being Everywhere, alongside a powerful trio of executive producers, Michael Rosenberg, Sid Ganis and Rob Friedman.YOU GOT GOLD – A CELEBRATION OF JOHN PRINE (United States, 90 Minutes – English). Abramorama presents a RadicalMedia & Oh Boy Pictures Production “You Got Gold – A Celebration of John Prine”. Executive Producers Jon Kamen, Meredith Bennett, Jack Prine, Jody Whelan, Eileen Tilson and Robert Meitus. Producer Fiona Whelan Prine. Directed by Michael John Warren. An Abramorama North American Theatrical Release.
Thailand, often called the “Land of Smiles,” is one of the most sought-after travel destinations in Southeast Asia. From bustling cities filled with ancient temples and modern skyscrapers to pristine beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant cultural traditions, the country offers something for every kind of traveler.
If you are planning your first trip, it can be overwhelming to decide where to begin. This article outlines the top things to do in Thailand for first-time visitors, helping you experience the very best the country has to offer.
Explore Bangkok’s Vibrant City Life
Bangkok is often the first stop for most international visitors, and it sets the tone for Thailand’s diversity. The capital city is a fascinating mix of modern energy and traditional charm.
The Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew: The former royal residence and Thailand’s most revered temple are awe-inspiring. Intricate designs and golden spires make the complex unforgettable.
Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn): Rising over the Chao Phraya River, this temple is stunning at both sunrise and sunset.
Floating Markets: Experience Damnoen Saduak or Amphawa, where vendors sell fruit, snacks, and handicrafts directly from boats.
Street Food Adventures: From Chinatown’s Yaowarat Road to Sukhumvit’s night markets, Bangkok is a food lover’s paradise.
Despite its size and chaotic traffic, the city is surprisingly easy to explore using the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway systems. For first-time travelers, Bangkok is a perfect introduction to Thailand’s balance of the old and new.
Visit Thailand’s Historic Cities
Thailand’s history is rich and deeply influential, leaving behind impressive ruins, ancient temples, and cultural landmarks. Exploring these cities allows travelers to connect with the country’s heritage.
Ayutthaya: Once the capital of the Siamese Kingdom, Ayutthaya is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its ruins, including massive Buddha statues and crumbling temples, reflect Thailand’s former grandeur.
Sukhothai: Known as the birthplace of Thai civilization, Sukhothai’s 13th-century ruins are well-preserved and best explored by bicycle.
Chiang Mai’s Old City: Encircled by a moat and remnants of ancient walls, Chiang Mai’s Old City is home to hundreds of temples, each with unique architecture.
Visiting these historic cities provides a deeper appreciation of Thailand’s cultural roots, making them must-sees for anyone interested in history.
Discover Thailand’s Beaches and Islands
Before setting off on coastal adventures, it’s wise to consider Thailand travel insurance to stay protected during activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, or boat excursions. Thailand’s beaches are among the most beautiful in the world, and each destination has a unique character.
Phuket: Thailand’s largest island combines vibrant nightlife with family-friendly resorts and water sports. Patong Beach is lively, while Kata and Karon are quieter.
Krabi and Railay Beach: Famous for dramatic limestone cliffs, Railay is popular with rock climbers. Krabi’s Phi Phi Islands are also a favorite for day trips.
Koh Samui: Known for palm-fringed beaches and luxury resorts, it’s a versatile destination for relaxation or adventure.
Koh Tao: A diver’s paradise, offering affordable scuba training and vibrant marine life.
Koh Phangan: Renowned for its Full Moon Party, but it also offers serene yoga retreats and tranquil beaches.
Thailand’s islands and beaches are perfect for unwinding or seeking adventure, making them a highlight for any first-time visitor.
Trekking and Adventure in Northern Thailand
Northern Thailand is a different world from the beaches. With cooler climates, lush mountains, and diverse ethnic groups, it’s ideal for adventurous travelers.
Chiang Mai: A hub for trekking tours, ziplining, and visits to ethical elephant sanctuaries.
Chiang Rai: Home to the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), a surreal and artistic interpretation of Buddhism.
Pai: A small town surrounded by valleys, waterfalls, and hot springs, attracting backpackers looking for a relaxed lifestyle.
Hill Tribe Treks: Guided tours allow visitors to engage with indigenous communities such as the Karen and Hmong tribes.
For those who enjoy the outdoors, Northern Thailand is full of opportunities to connect with both nature and culture.
Indulge in Thai Cuisine
Food is an essential part of the Thai experience, and no visit is complete without sampling local delicacies.
Street Food: From pad thai to grilled satay skewers, street vendors offer inexpensive, delicious meals everywhere.
Night Markets: Chiang Mai and Bangkok are famous for bustling markets where food and shopping meet.
Fine Dining: Bangkok boasts Michelin-starred restaurants offering refined interpretations of traditional Thai dishes.
Cooking Classes: Many cities offer classes where visitors can learn to prepare authentic Thai cuisine.
Thai food balances sweet, spicy, sour, and savory flavors, ensuring that every meal is memorable.
Experience Thai Festivals and Culture
Thailand’s festivals are colorful and immersive, giving travelers a deeper connection with local traditions.
Songkran (Thai New Year): Held in April, this nationwide water festival is both playful and symbolic of renewal.
Loy Krathong: In November, small decorated floats are released onto rivers and lakes, creating a magical sight.
Yi Peng Festival: Thousands of lanterns are released into the night sky in Chiang Mai, making it one of the country’s most iconic cultural events.
Participating in a festival is one of the best ways to understand Thailand’s communal and spiritual spirit.
Wellness and Relaxation
Thailand is also a global destination for wellness, with countless options to recharge body and mind.
Traditional Thai Massage: A centuries-old therapy that combines acupressure and stretching techniques.
Yoga and Meditation Retreats: Koh Samui and Koh Phangan are especially popular for wellness programs.
Luxury Spas: Many resorts offer spa treatments that incorporate Thai herbs and holistic practices.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation or spiritual balance, wellness is deeply embedded in Thai culture.
Shopping in Thailand’s Markets
Markets in Thailand are vibrant, offering much more than shopping.
Chatuchak Weekend Market (Bangkok): With over 15,000 stalls, it’s one of the world’s largest markets.
Chiang Mai Night Bazaar: Known for handmade crafts, jewelry, and art.
Floating Markets: Amphawa and Damnoen Saduak combine shopping with an unforgettable cultural experience.
Shopping here also provides opportunities to engage with locals and bring home unique souvenirs.
Practical Tips for First-Time Visitors
A little preparation goes a long way in making your trip smooth and enjoyable. Here are some tips to consider:
Visa and Entry: Many nationalities receive a visa exemption for short stays, but always consider checking requirements in advance.
Currency: The Thai Baht (THB) is the official currency. ATMs are widely available, but consider carrying cash for small purchases.
Transport: Domestic flights, buses, and trains connect the country efficiently. Tuk-tuks and motorbike taxis are common in cities.
Cultural Etiquette: Consider removing shoes before entering temples, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Final Thoughts
For first-time visitors, Thailand offers a mix of experiences few destinations can match: modern cities, ancient ruins, tropical islands, mountain treks, and some of the best food in the world. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Thailand ensures an unforgettable journey.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductees, GRAMMY Award-nominated icons, and RUSH Co-Founders Geddy Lee [bass, keys, vocals] and Alex Lifeson [guitar, vocals] have announced their return to the stage for a very special 2026 headline tour, Fifty Something, in celebration of RUSH’s music, legacy, and the life of late drummer and lyricist Neil Peart. It notably marks the first time Lee and Lifeson have toured together in eleven years since the finale of RUSH’s R40 Tour on August 1, 2015 at the Forum in Los Angeles, CA, bringing it full circle with a return to the Forum to embark upon these special shows.
Of the tour, Geddy Lee says: “It’s been over 10 years since Alex and I have performed the music of RUSH alongside our fallen bandmate and friend Neil. A lifetime’s worth of songs that we had put our cumulative hearts and souls into writing, recording and playing together onstage. And so, after all that has gone down since that last show, Alex and I have done some serious soul searching and come to the decision that we fucking miss it, and that it’s time for a celebration of 50-something years of RUSH music. So in 2026, my BFF Lerxst (aka Alex Lifeson) and I are going to hit the road once again to pay tribute to our past and to Neil by performing a vast selection of RUSH songs in a handful of cities. No small task, because as we all know Neil was irreplaceable. Yet life is full of surprises, and we have been introduced to another remarkable person; an incredible drummer and musician who is adding another chapter to our story while continuing her own fascinating musical journey. Her name is Anika Nilles, and we could not be more excited to introduce her to our loyal and dedicated RUSH fanbase, whom, we know, will give her every chance to live up to that near impossible role. Before we hit the stage, we also hope to add another musician or two to expand our sound a wee bit and free up Alex and I, in order to show off some of our new fancy dance steps.”
Anika Nilles is one of the most electrifying drummers on the planet — a German powerhouse whose blend of groove, precision, and imagination has redefined modern drumming. From posting her first viral drum videos on YouTube in the early 2010s to releasing two acclaimed albums with her band Nevell (Pikalar in 2017 and For a Colorful Soul in 2020), Nilles has built a global following one jaw-dropping fill at a time. On October 6, 2025, she added another thunderous chapter to her story — being announced as the new drummer for RUSH’s 2026 Fifty Something tour alongside Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson.
Born into a family of drummers, Nilles started behind the kit at six years old, learning her first grooves from her dad. She later swapped a career in social education for a life on stage, earning a degree in popular music from Popakademie Baden-Württemberg and eventually becoming head of its drums department. Her journey has taken her from bedroom YouTube sessions to tours across Europe, the U.S., and China — and even to Jeff Beck’s band during his 2022 European tour.
Cited by Modern Drummer and DRUM! as one of the most exciting artists of her generation, Anika’s sound fuses the feel of Jeff Porcaro with the inventiveness of Jojo Mayer and the spirit of Prince. Now, with RUSH, she’s stepping into one of rock’s most legendary legacies — and she’s ready to make it her own. The beat goes on, and Anika Nilles is keeping time for the future.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductees, GRAMMY Award-nominated icons, and RUSH Co-Founders Geddy Lee [bass, keys, vocals] and Alex Lifeson [guitar, vocals] have announced their return to the stage for a very special 2026 headline tour, Fifty Something, in celebration of RUSH’s music, legacy, and the life of late drummer and lyricist Neil Peart. It notably marks the first time Lee and Lifeson have toured together in eleven years since the finale of RUSH’s R40 Tour on August 1, 2015 at the Forum in Los Angeles, CA, bringing it full circle with a return to the Forum to embark upon these special shows.Of the tour, Geddy Lee says:
“It’s been over 10 years since Alex and I have performed the music of RUSH alongside our fallen bandmate and friend Neil. A lifetime’s worth of songs that we had put our cumulative hearts and souls into writing, recording and playing together onstage. And so, after all that has gone down since that last show, Alex and I have done some serious soul searching and come to the decision that we fucking miss it, and that it’s time for a celebration of 50-something years of RUSH music. So in 2026, my BFF Lerxst (aka Alex Lifeson) and I are going to hit the road once again to pay tribute to our past and to Neil by performing a vast selection of RUSH songs in a handful of cities. No small task, because as we all know Neil was irreplaceable.
Yet life is full of surprises, and we have been introduced to another remarkable person; an incredible drummer and musician who is adding another chapter to our story while continuing her own fascinating musical journey. Her name is Anika Nilles, and we could not be more excited to introduce her to our loyal and dedicated RUSH fanbase, whom, we know, will give her every chance to live up to that near impossible role. Before we hit the stage, we also hope to add another musician or two to expand our sound a wee bit and free up Alex and I, in order to show off some of our new fancy dance steps.
Lerxst, Anika and myself, along with many of our longstanding crew members have been hard at work rehearsing and designing the kind of RUSH show you’ve grown accustomed to expect from us. We dearly hope you will come along and help us celebrate our history together.”
Carrie Nuttall-Peart and Olivia Peart, Neil’s widow and daughter share:
“We are thrilled to support the Fifty Something tour, celebrating a band whose music has resonated and inspired fans for generations, and to honor Neil’s extraordinary legacy as both a drummer and lyricist.
Neil’s musicianship was singular. Compositions of intricacy and power that expanded what rhythm itself could express. As both drummer and lyricist, he was irreplaceable. Inimitable in his artistry, and unmatched in the depth and imagination he brought to the lyrics that inspired and moved so many, he profoundly shaped how fans connected with him and the band, giving voice and meaning to their own lives.
As the band enters this new chapter, it promises to be truly unforgettable. We are excited to see how their new vision unfolds, and to hear this legendary music played live once again.”
Earlier today, fans got the news via a Rush newsletter from a home video that announced the celebration of upcoming dates with Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson at Geddy Lee’s home studio.
Last night the band celebrated in a private event at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland with this on-stage interview and Q&A. RUSH will perform multiple shows in 7 cities across Canada, the United States and Mexico, beginning June 7, 2026 at The Kia Forum in Los Angeles. These special “evening with” shows will find the band playing two sets each night. Each show will feature a distinct selection of songs and RUSH will build each night’s setlist from a catalogue of 35 songs including their greatest hits and fan favorites.
For Fifty Something, Lee and Lifeson will be accompanied by German drummer, composer, and producer Anika Nilles, who has performed as Jeff Beck’s drummer for over 60 shows and has released four solo albums.
Fans will be able to participate in the RUSH Artist Presaleby signing up at https://livemu.sc/rush by Thursday, October 9 at 11:59pm ET.
Artist Presales for this tour are hosted by multiple ticketing sites but anyone who signs up can join the sale. For Artist Presales on Ticketmaster, no code is needed – access is tied to your account. The Artist Presale on SeatGeek for Cleveland will require a code. The Artist Presale begins on Monday, October 13 at 12PM local time in the US and Canada and Thursday, October 16 at 12PM local time in Mexico. General onsale begins here on Friday, October 17th at 12pm local time for the US & Canada, and 11am local time for Mexico.
Additionally, these pre-sales will be available:
Citi for U.S shows: Cardholders will have access to presale tickets beginning Friday at noon local time through Sunday at 11:59 p.m. local time. Complete details can be found at www.citientertainment.com.
American Express for Canada: Cardholders can purchase tickets for the Toronto show before the general public beginning Friday at noon local time and running through Sunday at 11:59 p.m. local time.
Banamex for Mexico City: Cardholders will have presale access ahead of the general onsale. Times vary based on Banamex card type:
Beyond Babamex:Presale available Oct. 13, 9 a.m. local to 11:59 p.m. local
Elite Banamex:Presale available Oct. 14, 9 a.m. local to 11:59 p.m. local
All cards:Presale available Oct. 15 11 a.m. local to 11:59 p.m. local
Rush invites fans to get closer than ever with three elevated offerings: an all-new VIP program, the first-ever 2112 Platform Experience, and curated Travel Packages for fans making a trip to see the show.
Sun Jun 07 Los Angeles, CA Kia Forum Tue Jun 09 Los Angeles, CA Kia Forum Thu Jun 18 Mexico City, MX. Palacio de los Deportes Wed Jun 24 Fort Worth, TX Dickies Arena Fri Jun 26 Fort Worth, TX Dickies Arena Thu Jul 16 Chicago, IL United Center Sat Jul 18 Chicago, IL United Center Tue Jul 28 New York, NY Madison Square Garden Thu Jul 30 New York, NY Madison Square Garden Fri Aug 07 Toronto, ON Scotiabank Arena Sun Aug 09 Toronto, ON Scotiabank Arena Thu Sep 17 Cleveland, OH Rocket Arena
Additionally, RUSH just revealed the 50-track super deluxe anthology, RUSH 50, that Rolling Stone called “an epic saga, that functions equally well as an introduction for the uninitiated or a companion piece for the super fan.” RUSH 50 is available in five distinct configurations, including the (1) Super Deluxe Edition, (2) RUSH Store Exclusive Super Deluxe Edition, (3) 7-LP Deluxe Edition, (4) 4-CD Deluxe Edition, and (5) Digital Edition. It represents breadth of their discography, beginning with the first-ever reissue of their 1973 debut single and concluding with a live recording the final song Lee, Lifeson, and Peart played together during the R40 Tour closer at The Forum. Purchase HERE.
Get ready to celebrate the music of RUSH with Lee and Lifeson live in 2026!
