In an emotional moment at São Paulo's Allianz Parque, Iron Maiden frontman Bruce Dickinson honored drummer Nicko McBrain during what would be his final live performance with the legendary metal band.
Earlier on Saturday, December 7, McBrain, 72, announced his retirement from touring after 42 years with Iron Maiden. The announcement came through the band's official channels just hours before their scheduled performance in Brazil.
During the concert, Dickinson paused before the third song "The Writing On The Wall" to address the audience about McBrain's departure. "Tonight is a very special night," Dickinson said, acknowledging the morning's announcement of McBrain's decision to step back from live performances.
The singer highlighted McBrain's extensive history with the band, noting that "he was a drummer before I was a singer, he was a pilot before I was a pilot." Dickinson emphasized that while McBrain would no longer perform live shows, he would remain an integral part of Iron Maiden.
Dickinson called for the remainder of the night to be "a celebration of Nick, a celebration of the joy that he's brought to everybody around the world."
In his retirement statement, McBrain expressed mixed emotions about his decision, citing the demands of extensive touring as the primary reason for stepping back. He assured fans that he would maintain his connection with Iron Maiden through various projects while pursuing personal ventures.
McBrain concluded his statement with characteristic enthusiasm, promising fans he would "see them soon" and signing off with the band's signature rallying cry, "Up the Irons!"