Nicko McBrain will no longer play live shows with Iron Maiden
After 42 years with Iron Maiden, drummer Nicko McBrain is stepping away from touring, wrapping up his time with the band yesterday at a concert in Brazil.
McBrain, 72, shared the news on social media on Saturday, revealing that he suffered a stroke in January 2023. He stated that he has regained about 70 percent of his abilities but initially experienced paralysis on the right side from his shoulder down.
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Nicko McBrain's decision to retire from touring follows the recent passing of Iron Maiden's original frontman, Paul Di'Anno, who died in October at the age of 66. Di'Anno had departed the band in 1981.
"After careful thought, I have decided, with both sadness and gratitude, to step away from the demanding life of extensive touring," McBrain stated on Iron Maiden's website. "I wish the band great success in the future."
McBrain, who became a member of Iron Maiden in 1982, taking over from Clive Burr, has been a key contributor to the band's sound, playing drums on every album since "Piece of Mind" in 1983.
"What can I say? These past 42 years touring with Maiden have been an amazing journey! To my loyal fans, you made it all worth it, and I love you!," McBrain added.
Although retiring from touring, McBrain will stay closely tied to Iron Maiden. He announced plans to remain involved in "various projects" with the band while also dedicating time to personal endeavors and his current businesses.
"I'm looking to the future with excitement and optimism! I'll see you all soon. May God bless you, and as always, 'Up the Irons!'" he wrote.
Iron Maiden shared their appreciation for McBrain's immense impact on the band. "Thank you for being an unstoppable force behind the drums for Maiden over these 42 years and a friend for even longer. On behalf of the entire band, I can say we will miss you deeply!" they said in a statement.
Iron Maiden highlighted their deep connection with Brazil, a bond that began with their iconic 1985 Rock in Rio performance. "Ending the touring chapter in front of 90,000 fans over two nights in São Paulo is truly fitting," they shared. "Nicko will forever remain a part of the Maiden family."
Saturday's concert concludes Iron Maiden's "The Future Past" world tour, which started in September. The band is set to hit the road again in 2025 with their "Run for Your Lives World Tour,"kicking off in May.
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