Rush Graces the Cover of Guitar World’s July 2026 Issue

The July 2026 issue of Guitar World features Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson on the cover, offering an in-depth look at the upcoming Fifty Something tour. Keeping this highly anticipated reunion a secret was no small feat, but in the magazine's extensive piece, "Re-Enter ... Stage Left," the duo finally details exactly how it all came together.

The Inside Scoop on the Reunion
The piece explores the early, private jam sessions that sparked their return. Alex admits he was initially hesitant due to his health, but notes that once they started playing together again, "we were laughing and smiling and really enjoying it".

Of course, the most significant hurdle was sitting someone behind the drum kit. While it is well known that German virtuoso Anika Nilles is handling drumming duties on the tour, the article provides an emotional behind-the-scenes look at that decision. Geddy summarizes the daunting reality, asking, "How do you ask someone to replace a guy who’s irreplaceable?". He also makes it unequivocally clear why she earned the position, stating, "We did not hire Anika Nilles because she’s a woman. We hired her because she’s an incredible drummer". The piece also discusses the addition of Loren Gold on keyboards, ensuring the music is treated respectfully while establishing a new dynamic so the stage setup isn't simply "Rush 2.0".

Celebrating Lerxst and Canadian Rock Connections
Additionally, the magazine features a comprehensive retrospective ranking the 20 greatest studio guitar moments of Alex's career. The list spans their entire catalog, shining a well-deserved spotlight on complex tracks like "The Necromancer" and highlighting the tremolo-bar madness of "Kid Gloves".

Finally, there is an engaging interview with Crown Lands' Kevin Comeau. Comeau shares a great story about visiting Geddy's home to take measurements of his vintage double-neck basses. Lee's bass tech, John "Skully" McIntosh, even helped Comeau wire his own custom-built double-neck to accommodate his complex live performances.

All three articles have been transcribed and can be read at this LINK.

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