In a heartfelt moment during Iron Maiden’s concert at Allianz Parque in São Paulo, Brazil, lead singer Bruce Dickinson honored drummer Nicko McBrain, who recently announced his decision to step back from touring with the legendary band after 42 years.
The 72-year-old drummer, whose full name is Michael Henry McBrain, revealed the news of his retirement earlier that day, December 7, through a statement shared on Iron Maiden’s website and social media platforms. In the statement, McBrain also mentioned that his final performance with the band would be that evening in São Paulo.
Before diving into the third song of the night, “The Writing On The Wall,” Dickinson took a moment to acknowledge McBrain’s retirement. He addressed the crowd, saying:
“Tonight is a very special night, as some of you, I think probably all of you, will know, because this morning we announced, Nicko announced that he was stepping back from playing live drums with IRON MAIDEN.”
He went on to reflect on the longstanding relationship they had shared as bandmates, adding:
“For 42 years, Nicko’s been in this band. He was a drummer before I was a singer, he was a pilot before I was a pilot, and now he’s not leaving the band, but he’s just not playing live with us anymore.”
Dickinson made it clear that the night’s performance was meant to celebrate McBrain’s incredible legacy, saying:
“So, we have a lot more music to get to tonight, and I want the rest of the night to be a celebration of Nick, a celebration of the joy that he’s brought to everybody around the world, not just here in Brazil. Alright? And with that, on we go!”
In his statement announcing his retirement, McBrain shared his mixed emotions about stepping back:
“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. I wish the band much success moving forward.”
Reflecting on his journey with the band, McBrain continued:
“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!”
Despite retiring from live touring, McBrain reassured fans that he would remain closely connected to Iron Maiden. He expressed excitement for future projects with the band and personal ventures, saying:
“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’s long-time manager, Rod Smallwood of Phantom Music Management, also expressed gratitude to McBrain for his contributions over the years. Smallwood shared:
“Thank you for being an irrepressible force behind the drum kit for MAIDEN for 42 years and my friend for even longer. I speak on behalf of all the band when I say we will miss you immensely!”
Smallwood also referenced Iron Maiden’s special relationship with Brazil, where the band has performed for massive audiences since their appearance at the 1985 Rock In Rio festival. He remarked:
“To bow out of touring in front of 90,000 fans here in São Paulo over two nights is poetic. Nicko is and will always be part of the MAIDEN family.”
Iron Maiden’s fans are certain to miss McBrain’s energetic drumming on stage, but his legacy will live on within the band, and his continued involvement in Iron Maiden projects will keep his spirit alive for years to come.
