One of the most amazing parts about being at the first night of Rush's first tour since Neil Peart's passing was watching new touring drummer Anika Nilles win over the crowd. The amount of pressure she was under was immense, but she pulled off her debut with grace.
With every drum fill Anika executed, the roar of the crowd grew. The smile on her face showed her appreciation for the support. The pride plastered on Geddy Lee's face made the night even more special.
As the end of the evening neared and the opening chords of Tom Sawyer played, a sense of nervousness filled the air. Could she pull off the most famous of Neil Peart's solos?
As she played, the roar of the crowd crescendoed. By the time she reached the end, the smile on her face reached ear to ear, and the applause only got louder.
The answer was: yes, she could.
For more about my reaction to that emotional night, please read my article at:
The band’s opening night at the Forum blends celebration, grief, and powerful tributes to the late Neil Peart.
