BREAKING:Legendary Iron Maiden Drummer Nicko McBrain Cal…Read more
McBrain, the iconic stalwart of Iron Maiden’s rhythm section, announced his retirement from live performances—closing an epoch after 42 adrenaline-fueled years behind the drum kit . The news broke on December 7, 2024, just ahead of his final show in São Paulo, Brazil, in which frontman Bruce Dickinson paid a moving tribute on stage .
In a release statement, McBrain expressed both “joy and sorrow” as he spoke of relinquishing the “grind of the high-touring life.” He explained that even though he’ll no longer be touring live, he’ll remain an active and creative member of the Iron Maiden clan—working toward studio recordings and band endeavors .
This followed serious health problems: in January 2023, he had a stroke that left him half-paralyzed, and he admitted on the “Future Past” tour that he didn’t feel he could anymore drive the band with his erstwhile energy. However, he pushed through 81 global concerts before he decided to throw in the towel (.
Replacing him will be Simon Dawson, veteran fellow-conspirator of Iron Maiden bassist Steve Harris in British Lion. Dawson has been confirmed as Iron Maiden’s guest drummer on the 2025 “Run For Your Lives” tour, which sets out in Budapest on May 27 .
In typical McBrain manner, the drummer is already booked to focus on personal endeavors: his Rock‑N‑Roll Ribs restaurant, Drum One record store, and potential autobiography are all lined up . Fans and bandmates alike have paid tribute to his record with gratitude—Rod Smallwood described him as “an irrepressible force behind the drum kit
As Iron Maiden embarks on their 50th‑anniversary tour sans McBrain on stage, his thunderous legacy and indomitable spirit continue to be intertwined in the heart of the band.
