Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith recently opened up about one of the most memorable moments of his career—sharing the stage with Rush icons Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson during the Taylor Hawkins Tribute Concert in Los Angeles. In a candid conversation with promoter Danny Wimmer, Smith reflected on the emotional night and whether it might have sparked new life into the possibility of a Rush reunion.

Taylor Hawkins, the late drummer of the Foo Fighters, was celebrated in two massive tribute concerts (London and Los Angeles) in 2022. The events drew together a lineup of rock’s biggest names, honoring Hawkins’ legacy while creating unforgettable collaborations. For Chad Smith, being part of a performance with Lee and Lifeson was a deeply powerful experience.

The Rush Connection at Hawkins’ Tribute

Chad Smith shared his thoughts on the emotional reunion of the surviving Rush members, recalling how it brought out something special in them.

Transcribed by Danny Wimmer Presents, Smith said:

“I think revisiting this Taylor Hawkins event has reenergized Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson, making them ponder the possibility of a reunion. Neil’s absence was a monumental loss; you simply cannot replace someone like him. He had been their drummer for over 40 years.”

Smith emphasized the uniqueness of the moment—while Rush has not officially reunited since Neil Peart’s passing in early 2020, their performance at the tribute gave fans hope of future possibilities. The depth of emotion was clear, as both Geddy and Alex relived the joy of performing live in front of thousands.

Remembering Neil Peart’s Legacy

It was impossible for Smith to talk about Rush without acknowledging the band’s irreplaceable drummer. Neil Peart was not only a technical genius behind the kit but a lyrical mastermind, shaping the band’s direction for more than four decades.

Smith reflected warmly on Peart’s absence and how it still looms large, but he maintained that Lee and Lifeson might still channel their energy into future performances.

He noted:

“Nevertheless, at the end of the day, they thought, ‘This is who we are; it’s what we’ve always done.’ Why should they stop doing what they excel at? They can still perform exceptionally well, so perhaps this experience will serve as inspiration for them.”

This sentiment highlights how musicians continually wrestle with balancing legacy and creativity. For Smith, it’s clear that Rush has more to give—even if in a modified form without Peart.

Beyond the Tribute: South Park’s 25th Anniversary

Chad Smith also recalled another recent collaboration that elevated hopes of a Rush return—their guest appearance at South Park’s 25th-anniversary concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre.

Transcribed by Danny Wimmer Presents, Smith explained:

“Seeing those guys thoroughly enjoying their return to the stage was remarkable. Another noteworthy event was when Geddy and Alex joined the South Park crew at Red Rocks. They played alongside the Primus guys, recreating tracks from albums like ‘Moving Pictures’ and ‘Hemispheres.’”

For fans, this was not just a nostalgia trip but a powerful reminder of how timeless Rush’s music is when performed live. Smith pointed out how much fun both Geddy and Alex seemed to be having—clear evidence that playing together reignites their chemistry.

Does This Mean a Rush Reunion?

The big question, of course, is whether these events will lead to a full-fledged Rush reunion. Chad Smith didn’t outright confirm any plans. However, his observations strongly suggest that Geddy and Alex are finding renewed inspiration from these unique performances.

Smith added:

“Their enthusiasm for these performances was palpable, and it’s evident that they miss playing together. While Neil may no longer be with us, their passion for making music remains undiminished. They still possess the desire to play.”

This statement resonates with fans worldwide. While it’s unrealistic to expect Rush to reform in the same way as before, these moments show there’s still room for new chapters. Whether it’s occasional guest performances, special appearances, or a one-off concert, a Rush project of some kind seems more possible now than it did just a few years ago.

Final Thoughts

Chad Smith’s reflections serve as both a tribute to Taylor Hawkins and a glimpse into how music can reunite legends in unexpected ways. For Rush fans, the idea of Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson returning to the stage—even sporadically—keeps the flame alive.

The Taylor Hawkins Tribute Concert wasn’t just a celebration of one drummer’s life; it was a reminder of music’s power to heal, inspire, and rekindle old bonds. And if Chad Smith’s observations are anything to go by, the spirit of Rush may not be finished yet.