Anika Nilles

Anika Nilles is a German drummer, composer, and educator who has become a leading figure in the world of contemporary drumming. Her approach is acclaimed for its innovative mix of jazz fusion, progressive rock, and funk. She launched her career in the early 2010s via her YouTube channel, where her original compositions, including "Alter Ego," went viral, accumulating over 20 million views. This exposure earned her rapid international recognition. Her playing style, which combines technical precision, an exceptional groove, and complex polyrhythms, is considered by many to be the best in the modern field. With her band Nevell, she has released acclaimed albums such as Pikalar (2017). Her talent was rewarded, notably by being elected twice "#1 Rising Star" by DRUM! magazine. In 2022, she toured in the United States and Europe with rock legend Jeff Beck.

More recently, Anika was invited to join Rush for their 2026 reunion tour.