Heart Breaking:Iron maiden legendary Nicko McBrain…read more
In a candid and emotional conversation, legendary drummer Mike Portnoy opened up about Nicko McBrain’s recent announcement that he would be retiring from touring with Iron Maiden. Known for his thunderous drumming and distinct style, McBrain has been the heartbeat of Iron Maiden since 1982, contributing heavily to their evolution and worldwide success. Portnoy, who has always expressed admiration for McBrain, discussed the news as “sad” and shared his thoughts on the impact this would have not only on the band but on the entire rock and metal community.
Mike Portnoy, who has worked with bands like Dream Theater and Transatlantic, is no stranger to the pressures of life on the road and the inevitable toll it can take. However, he admitted in his recent remarks that the news of McBrain stepping away from the touring circuit has left him with a sense of sadness and inevitability. For decades, McBrain has been an indispensable part of Iron Maiden’s signature sound. From tracks like “The Trooper” to “Aces High,” McBrain’s energetic rhythms and technical proficiency have played a significant role in shaping Iron Maiden’s identity, marking him as one of the most influential drummers in heavy metal history.
Portnoy, who has long considered McBrain an inspiration and a legend, conveyed his emotional response to McBrain’s retirement by highlighting the crucial role he’s played not just within Iron Maiden, but within the broader music world. “I’m hoping he’s still in the band in some capacity,” Portnoy remarked. While acknowledging McBrain’s incredible achievements over the years, Portnoy admitted that it’s tough to imagine Iron Maiden continuing without him, particularly given his role as the backbone of their live performances.
As McBrain transitions away from his rigorous tour schedule, Portnoy expressed understanding of the drummer’s desire to step back. “It’s hard for any musician to keep up with the demands of extensive touring, and after years of playing to millions of fans worldwide, it makes sense that Nicko might want to take a well-deserved rest,” said Portnoy. Iron Maiden, whose concert tours have spanned decades and included some of the largest stages in rock, are known for their high-energy performances, which require intense physical and mental stamina, particularly from the drummers.
However, for fans of the band, McBrain’s decision brings with it a bittersweet reality. As Iron Maiden continues to attract fans worldwide, with every concert being a sold-out spectacle, the thought of seeing the band live without McBrain seems almost impossible for many. Portnoy acknowledged this dilemma by noting that McBrain is deeply embedded in Iron Maiden’s legacy and that his absence would inevitably change the band’s dynamic. “It’s a heartbreaking thought, but it’s also part of the evolution of a band, and we all must embrace it,” Portnoy shared, adding that McBrain’s retirement presents an opportunity for newer drummers to step up and offer their unique style to the band.
For McBrain, who has devoted much of his life to Iron Maiden, retirement from touring marks the end of an era. Fans across the globe will continue to celebrate the iconic drummer, who will undoubtedly remain a central figure in the history of rock and metal music. Still, Portnoy’s reflections underscore the deep respect shared between musicians, especially those who, like McBrain and himself, have lived out their love for music in front of massive audiences.
As McBrain moves forward in his retirement, Mike Portnoy, along with fans and peers alike, hopes that the iconic drummer will remain an integral part of Iron Maiden, even if only behind the scenes. “Nicko has given so much to the band, the genre, and the world of rock ‘n’ roll. His contribution can never be underestimated,” Portnoy concluded. For McBrain, the next chapter of his journey begins—but it’s clear that the legacy he leaves will continue to resonate far beyond the stage.
