by BRIAN GIFFIN
NICKO McBrain has stepped down as Iron Maiden’s drummer after 42 years behind the kit.
In an official statement dated December 7, McBrain announced his departure from “the grind of the extensive touring lifetyle”. His final show with the band will be in Sao Paolo, Brazil, tonight (Australian time).
McBrain joined Iron Maiden in 1982 as replacement for Clive Burr. In January 2023 he suffered a stroke that paralysed his right side; after 10 weeks of therapy, he began touring with the band again.
An accompanying statement from manager Rod Smallwood reveals that McBrain’s replacement has already been chosen and will be announced in the new year.
An Announcement from Iron Maiden
Posted by Iron Maiden on Saturday, December 7, 2024
