Iron Maiden's legendary drummer Nicko McBrain has announced his retirement from touring after 42 remarkable years with the heavy metal icons. The drummer's final performance with the band will take place on December 7th at Allianz Parque in Sao Paulo, Brazil, marking the end of their Future Past Tour.
McBrain, who joined Iron Maiden in 1982 and has been behind the kit since their fourth album "Piece of Mind," made the announcement via social media. While stepping away from touring duties, he emphasized that he will remain an integral part of the Iron Maiden family, focusing on various projects with the band's management team.
The veteran drummer plans to dedicate more time to his business ventures, including The British Drum Company, Nicko McBrain's Drum One, Titanium Tart, and Rock-N-Roll Ribs. His decision comes following a stroke he suffered in 2023, though he has been steadily recovering.
Iron Maiden's co-manager Rod Smallwood released a heartfelt statement on behalf of the band, highlighting McBrain's immense contribution over four decades. "We will miss you immensely," Smallwood expressed, adding that the band has already selected a new touring drummer, with an official announcement expected soon.
In his farewell message, McBrain expressed gratitude to his fans, family, and bandmates: "Touring with Maiden the last 42 years has been an incredible journey!" He signed off with the band's iconic rallying cry, "Up the Irons!"
The drummer's final show in Sao Paulo, performing before 90,000 fans, serves as a fitting conclusion to his touring career with one of metal's most influential bands.