BREAKING: Iron maiden Drummer Nicko MCbrain Re…See more
????️ “Mixed Emotions” Over Hanging Up His Spur
In a recent interview for Chaoszine, McBrain indicated his feelings about retirement as “mixed emotions, obviously.” In announcing his retirement on December 7, 2024, following Iron Maiden’s final Future Past tour concert in São Paulo, he admitted hanging up was “easy at the time,” given continued health complications after suffering a stroke in early 2023 . But he still yearns for touring life, saying, “I’m gonna miss the next tour… I wish I could still play with the guys. I wish I had my full fitness”.
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⚡ Touring’s Toll on Health & Performance
McBrain opened up about the hectic touring schedule—gig days, travel days, not much sleep—that began to take its toll on him. He admitted that he felt he couldn’t work the band as hard anymore in the way he used to, especially on songs like “The Trooper.” Even with the help of a personal trainer and exercises aimed at boosting coordination and mental acuity, the brutality began to exact a price, and he decided to let go of the reins
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???? Band & Management Support
After it was announced to Steve Harris and Iron Maiden management by McBrain, they understood completely and supported him “having my handicap since my stroke” . Their statement also included warm words from long-time manager Rod Smallwood, praising McBrain’s 42-year-long career and calling his final performances in Brazil “poetic” .
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What’s Next?
In spite of quitting the tour bus, McBrain is still bound to Iron Maiden. Already, British Lion’s Simon Dawson has become the band’s live drummer, prior to the ongoing Run For Your Lives tour kicked off on May 27, 2025 . Nicko, for his turn, is opening a less high-profile new chapter—jamming in his home region, expanding his Drum One shop and Rock N Roll Ribs restaurant, and even working on an autobiography 
