IRON MAIDEN Manager Blasts ‘Selfish’ Fans Who Didn’t Respect Request To Keep Phones In Pockets: ‘I Wish You Nothing But A Very Sore Arm’…

IRON MAIDEN Manager Blasts ‘Selfish’ Fans Who Didn’t Respect Request To Keep Phones In Pockets: ‘I Wish You Nothing But A Very Sore Arm’

 

Iron Maiden’s long-time manager, Rod Smallwood, has sharply criticized fans who ignored repeated requests to keep their phones in their pockets during the legendary metal band’s recent tour stop, calling their behavior “selfish” and “disrespectful.”

In a fiery post-concert statement released via the band’s official channels, Smallwood didn’t mince words. “We asked very clearly, multiple times, for fans to keep their phones away during the performance,” he said. “It wasn’t just a whim — it was about preserving the experience, the energy, and the connection between band and audience. Those who chose to ignore that? Selfish. Plain and simple.”

Iron Maiden, known for their electrifying live shows and passionate global fanbase, have long advocated for immersive concert experiences, where fans are encouraged to live in the moment rather than watch the show through a screen. During this tour, the band implemented a firm no-filming policy, with signs and announcements made at venues beforehand and on the night of the performance. Despite these efforts, many attendees were seen recording with their phones throughout the set.

Smallwood’s frustration was palpable. “When you hold your phone up for five, ten, fifteen minutes, not only are you ruining your own experience, you’re also obstructing the view for others,” he said. “I honestly wish you nothing but a very sore arm and a blurry video that you’ll never watch again.”

The manager’s comments sparked a wave of reactions online, with many fans backing his stance. Social media threads were filled with praise for Iron Maiden’s commitment to live performance integrity. “I paid to see the band, not someone’s phone in front of my face,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “If you want to film something, stay home and watch YouTube.”

However, not all responses were supportive. Some attendees argued that taking a short video or photo doesn’t harm anyone and helps preserve memories. Others accused the band of being out of touch in an era where sharing content online is second nature.

Still, Smallwood was unmoved. “We’re not asking for the impossible. We’re just asking for respect — for the band, for your fellow fans, and for the moment. A concert should be a shared experience, not a chance to boost your social media clout.”

Iron Maiden’s policy reflects a growing movement among artists — including Jack White, Alicia Keys, and Bob Dylan — who have restricted or outright banned phone use during their performances. Many argue that phone-free environments allow for deeper emotional engagement and a purer live music experience.

As the band’s tour continues across Europe, it’s unclear whether stricter enforcement will follow. But Smallwood’s message to phone-happy concertgoers remains loud and clear: “Next time you think about recording the whole show, think about the person behind you, the band in front of you, and whether your screen is worth more than the moment you’re throwing away.”