Nicko McBrain : Iron Maiden Drummer Announces Retirement From Touring

72-year-old Nick McBrain, longtime Iron Maiden drummer announced that he is taking a ‘step back’ from touring during his final concert. His last gig with the band was at Allianz Parque in São Paulo, Brazil.

McBrain shared his feelings with a heartwarming post on the Iron Maiden official website. “After much consideration, it is with both sorrow and joy, I announce my decision to take a step back from the grind of the extensive touring lifestyle,” he said. “I wish the band much success moving forward.”

McBrain has been a crucial part of Iron Maiden’s soundscape since 1982 after Clive Burr left the band. He has played drums on all of the band’s albums since their 1983 release “Peace of Mind”.

The Grammy-winning drummer further wrote, “What can I say? Touring with Maiden the last 42 years has been an incredible journey! To my devoted fan base, you made it all worthwhile and I love you!”

But this does not mean he is completely stopping working with the band. Nick McBrain will still be connected to Iron Maiden and will keep working on a “variety of projects”, while focusing on his existing businesses and personal endeavors. As he says, he looks into the future with “much excitement and great hope”!

“I’ll be seeing you soon, may God bless you all, and, of course, ‘Up the Irons!'” wrote the musician.

Also read: Pearl Jam Returns to the Road Next Year for Dark Matter Tour

The decision comes from the drummer’s health issues lately. In 2023, McBrain had a stroke which left him partially paralyzed. But after proper rehabilitation and care, the Iron Maiden drummer returned to the stage for their current world tour.

Iron Maiden members had some touching words to share as their long time drummer left.

“Thank you for being an irrepressible force behind the drum kit for Maiden for 42 years and my friend for even longer. I speak on behalf of all the band when I say we will miss you immensely!” Iron Maiden said in a statement. “To bow out of touring in front of 90,000 fans here in São Paulo over two nights is poetic… Nicko is and will always be part of the Maiden family.”

Last Saturday was their final show for The Future Past World Tour which started in September. Next year in May, Iron Maiden hits the road again for their Run for Your Lives World Tour!

Click here to get your tickets!