BREAKING: Iron Maiden Drummer Nicko McBrain P…read more
In a candid new interview, Iron Maiden guitarist Adrian Smith has opened up about the “heartbreaking” decision to replace longtime drummer Nicko McBrain, emphasizing that the lineup change was a mechanical necessity for the heavy metal institution to survive.
McBrain, who joined the band in 1982, officially retired from touring in December 2024 following a final performance in São Paulo, Brazil. The departure followed a difficult period for the drummer after he suffered a stroke in January 2023, which left him with partial paralysis and significantly impacted his ability to perform the band’s demanding repertoire.
A Physical Toll Too Great
Speaking with Metal Hammer España, Smith reflected on the sheer physicality required to anchor an Iron Maiden set. “I think the Maiden drumming gig is one of the toughest, for sure,” Smith noted. “It’s very, very physical. And Nick, he had this stroke he had a sort of a not a full recovery. And that, unfortunately, really affected his playing.”
Despite the setback, McBrain completed the Future Past World Tour, a feat Smith described as “quite amazing” and a true “tribute to him.” However, as the band looked toward their 50th-anniversary celebrations and the massive Run For Your Lives World Tour scheduled for 2025 and 2026, the reality of the situation became unavoidable.
“He tried his best to keep going, but he knew himself that he couldn’t do what he used to do. So, we had to make the change for the band to continue.” Adrian Smith
The New Era: Simon Dawson
Taking over the drum throne is Simon Dawson, a musician already well-integrated into the “Maiden family.” Dawson has served as the drummer for bassist Steve Harris’s side project, British Lion, for the last 12 years.
Smith admitted that while Dawson is a fantastic addition, the absence of McBrain’s larger-than-life personality is felt by everyone. “It was never gonna be the same,” Smith said. “Obviously, Nick was a massive part. He’s a big personality.” Nevertheless, McBrain has reportedly given Dawson his full blessing, even maintaining regular contact with his former bandmates to wish them luck on the road.
Looking Toward the 50th Anniversary
Iron Maiden is currently preparing for the next leg of their Run For Your Lives World Tour, which kicks off in Budapest in May 2025 and continues through 2026. The tour celebrates five decades of the band’s history, featuring a setlist focused on their classic era.
While McBrain is no longer behind the kit for live shows, Smith and the rest of the band have been clear: he remains a member of the Iron Maiden family. There have even been hints that McBrain might contribute to future studio recordings or make special guest appearances when his health permits.
For now, the band moves forward with a heavy heart but a clear mission. As Smith put it: “It’s nice to keep the music alive. It’s bigger than all of us, really.”
