‘A Question Mark Was Raised About The Performance Side’: Nicko McBrain Shares Opinion on His Successor in Iron Maiden, Recalls the Moment He Decided to Retire…

‘A Question Mark Was Raised About The Performance Side’: Nicko McBrain Shares Opinion on His Successor in Iron Maiden, Recalls the Moment He Decided to Retire

 

Legendary Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain has opened up about his thoughts on the band’s future and the emotional decision to step away from the drum kit after decades of defining the heavy metal soundscape. In a candid new interview, McBrain spoke about his successor, his health struggles, and the moment he realized it was time to retire from touring with the iconic British band.

McBrain, who joined Iron Maiden in 1982 and played on some of their most influential albums, including Powerslave and Seventh Son of a Seventh Son, has been an indispensable part of Maiden’s powerful rhythm section. However, in recent years, fans and insiders alike have speculated about his ability to continue performing at the highest level following his health scare in 2023, when he suffered a stroke that left him partially paralyzed on his right side.

“After the stroke, I worked hard to get back on the kit,” McBrain revealed. “But there was always a question mark — not just from others, but from myself — about the performance side of things. Could I keep up with the intensity Maiden demands night after night? That’s a tough thing to confront.”

Despite returning to the stage in 2024 with admirable tenacity, McBrain admitted that the physical toll, combined with his commitment to maintaining Iron Maiden’s high performance standards, led him to reconsider his long-term role. “I never wanted to be the weak link,” he said. “The band’s legacy means everything to me. And when I felt that I couldn’t give 110% consistently, I knew it was time to think seriously about stepping down.”

In the interview, McBrain praised his successor — though he did not name the drummer officially replacing him, rumors have pointed to a few seasoned musicians already working closely with the band. “I’ve watched him rehearse with the guys, and he’s phenomenal,” McBrain said. “I was relieved to see that level of musicianship and respect for the material. He’s not trying to be me; he’s being true to himself while honoring the Maiden sound. That gave me peace.”

While McBrain hasn’t completely ruled out guest appearances or studio work, he emphasized that stepping back from full-time touring is the right decision — both personally and professionally. “It was emotional,” he recalled. “I remember sitting backstage after one of the shows and just knowing in my gut — this was it. It wasn’t sadness, really. It was more like a deep breath after a long journey.”

Iron Maiden has yet to make an official announcement regarding McBrain’s retirement or his replacement, but fans are already showing support online, thanking him for over four decades of thunderous drumming and unforgettable live performances.

As McBrain enters a new chapter, the Iron Maiden legacy continues — built on the foundation he helped lay. “It’s not goodbye,” he said with a smile. “It’s just a new beat in the rhythm of life.”