Iron Maiden Welcomes New Drummer as Nicko McBrain Retires from Touring

Iron Maiden has announced that their longtime drummer Nicko McBrain is retiring from touring after 42 years with the band. His final performance took place on December 7, 2024, at Allianz Parque in São Paulo, Brazil. McBrain, who joined Iron Maiden in 1982, has been a cornerstone of the band’s sound, contributing to numerous iconic albums and legendary world tours.

In an emotional statement, McBrain explained that the decision was difficult but necessary due to the physical demands of touring. He assured fans that he remains part of the Iron Maiden family and plans to focus on personal ventures, including his businesses The British Drum Company and his restaurant Rock-N-Roll Ribs.

Iron Maiden has officially announced Simon Dawson as their new live drummer. Dawson, an experienced musician, has worked closely with bassist Steve Harris in the side project British Lion since 2012. He will make his live debut with Iron Maiden on May 27, 2025, when the band kicks off their “Run For Your Lives World Tour” in Budapest, Hungary, celebrating their 50th anniversary.

Frontman Bruce Dickinson paid tribute to McBrain during the São Paulo concert, thanking him for his immense contributions to the band and the unforgettable memories he has created for fans worldwide. The band’s manager, Rod Smallwood, also expressed gratitude and confirmed that McBrain would remain involved behind the scenes.

McBrain’s retirement follows significant health challenges, including a stroke in 2023 that left him partially paralyzed. His resilience and recovery have been inspirational, and his legacy with Iron Maiden stands as a testament to his unparalleled talent and dedication.

With Simon Dawson behind the drum kit, Iron Maiden is set to enter an exciting new chapter, continuing the legacy McBrain helped build over four decades of heavy metal dominance.