Iron Maiden guitarist Adrian Smith has opened up about the band’s transition to new drummer Simon Dawson, acknowledging that replacing the legendary Nicko McBrain meant “it was never gonna be the same.” In a new interview promoting the band’s 50th-anniversary book, Smith also reflected on the arrival of another iconic member, vocalist Bruce Dickinson, decades earlier.
Speaking with Germany’s Metal Hammer, Smith discussed the significant lineup change that occurred when McBrain retired in December 2024 after 42 years behind the kit.
“Yeah, it was never gonna be the same. Obviously, Nick was a massive part. He’s a big personality. It would never be the same,” Smith said. He explained that McBrain‘s health issues, specifically a stroke he suffered in 2023, ultimately necessitated the change. “It was unfortunate. He had a stroke and physically there’s nothing he could do about it, really. He tried — we all tried to help him.”
Smith described the Iron Maiden drumming gig as “one of the hardest, physically” and praised McBrain‘s determination during his final tours. He also emphasized that McBrain remains a part of the Maiden family.
“He did great to get through those [last couple of] tours, and it was quite amazing — a tribute to him, really… We all loved him — Well, we still do. [Laughs] And he’ll always be a part of the band, even now,” Smith shared. He noted that McBrain “gave him [Dawson] his blessing and wished him luck.” “He still wants the band to do well because he still feels like he’s a bit of a part of it, and he is, really. But it’s nice to keep the music alive. It’s bigger than all of us, really.”
The interview, centered around the new book “Iron Maiden: Infinite Dreams – The Official Visual History“, also saw Smith reflect on another pivotal lineup change: the arrival of Bruce Dickinson in 1981, replacing original singer Paul Di’Anno.
“Bruce is a very different character to Paul. He was very focused on his craft. He was a singer and he took care of his voice,” Smith recalled. “Bruce is Bruce, and he was probably a bit more professional. He was a powerhouse. Bruce could sing six nights in a row and just keep going and going and going. So that enabled the band to progress and tour and keep going.”
Simon Dawson, who also plays with bassist Steve Harris in British Lion, made his debut with Iron Maiden during their successful 2025 European tour.
