Nicko, whose real name is Michael Henry McBrain, announced his retirement earlier that day via IRON MAIDEN’s website and social media platforms. The 72-year-old musician revealed that the São Paulo show would be his last live performance with the band after an illustrious 42-year career.
Before launching into the evening’s third song, The Writing On The Wall, frontman Bruce Dickinson addressed the crowd, celebrating McBrain’s legacy. “Tonight is a very special night,” Bruce said. “Nicko announced that he was stepping back from playing live drums with IRON MAIDEN. For 42 years, Nicko has been in this band. He was a drummer before I was a singer, and now he’s not leaving the band, but he’s just not playing live with us anymore. Let’s make tonight a celebration of Nicko and the joy he’s brought to everyone around the world.”
In his retirement statement, McBrain expressed gratitude and mixed emotions: “After much consideration, it is with both sorrow and joy that I announce my decision to step back from the grind of extensive touring. Touring with MAIDEN for the last 42 years has been an incredible journey! To my devoted fan base, you made it all worthwhile, and I love you!”
Though retiring from touring, McBrain assured fans he will remain closely connected to IRON MAIDEN, continuing to collaborate on projects and focus on personal ventures and existing businesses. “I look to 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!‘”
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IRON MAIDEN manager Rod Smallwood praised McBrain’s contributions in a heartfelt statement: “Thank you for being an irrepressible force behind the drum kit for 42 years and my friend for even longer. Nicko is and will always be part of the MAIDEN family.” Smallwood also highlighted the significance of McBrain’s final performances taking place in Brazil, a country with deep ties to the band since their 1985 Rock In Rio debut.
On December 8, the band announced Simon Dawson as their new touring drummer. Dawson, a longtime collaborator with bassist Steve Harris in BRITISH LION, will join MAIDEN for their upcoming Run For Your Lives world tour, slated to begin in May 2025.
McBrain’s retirement follows a challenging period in his life. In January 2023, he suffered a stroke that left him partially paralysed on one side of his body. Despite initial fears for his career, he made a remarkable recovery, returning to perform on The Future Past tour. Additionally, McBrain privately battled stage 1 laryngeal cancer in 2019, undergoing successful surgery and regular check-ups to ensure his continued health.
Nicko joined IRON MAIDEN in 1982, replacing Clive Burr and bringing a refined, technical style that helped the band push into more ambitious musical territory. His dynamic drumming became a cornerstone of the band’s evolving sound, securing his place as the third longest-tenured member behind Steve Harris and Dave Murray.
As fans reflect on Nicko McBrain’s indelible impact, the legendary drummer steps away from touring with a legacy that will resonate through IRON MAIDEN’s music for generations. “Up the Irons” indeed.
Iron Maiden will celebrate their 50th anniversary with their ‘Run For Your Lives‘ world tour which will be rolling into Ireland’s Malahide Castle on July 25th, featuring Halestorm and The Ravens Age as official support. This will be the first run of dates featuring new touring drummer, Simon Dawson behind the kit.
Oran O’Beirne
www.overdrive.ie 2024
