Legendary drummer Nicko McBrain has made a poignant announcement, signaling the end of an era for Iron Maiden fans around the globe. After decades of delivering electrifying performances and unforgettable tours, McBrain shared that the band’s show in São Paulo on Saturday, December 7th, will be his last with the iconic heavy metal legends.
Nicko’s full statement regarding his retirement from live shows reads as follows:
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. Today, Sat, Dec 7th, Sao Paulo will be my final gig with Iron Maiden. I wish the band much success moving forward.
I will, however, remain firmly part of the Iron Maiden family working on a variety of projects, my long time managers, Rod Smallwood and Andy Taylor, have in mind for me. I’ll also be working on a variety of different personal projects and focusing on my existing businesses and ventures, including The British Drum Company, Nicko McBrain’s Drum One, Titanium Tart, and of course, Rock-N-Roll Ribs!
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! To my devoted wife, Rebecca, you made it infinitely easier and I love you! To my kids, Justin and Nicholas, thank you for understanding the absences and I love you! To my friends that are always there for me, I love you! To my bandmates, you made it a dream come true and I love you!
“I look 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!”
Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain experienced a health crisis in January 2023 when he suffered a stroke at his home in Boca Raton, leaving him partially paralyzed.
