BREAKING: Bruce Dickinson Says New Iron Maiden Drummer Simon Dawson Conjures a Familiar Sound—But It’s Not Nicko McBrain…
Iron Maiden’s legendary frontman Bruce Dickinson has opened up about the band’s newest addition, drummer Simon Dawson, who recently stepped in following the temporary departure of longtime drummer Nicko McBrain due to health issues. In a candid interview, Dickinson acknowledged that while Dawson brings a familiar energy to the band’s sound, it’s not quite the same as McBrain’s signature style.
“Simon’s doing a phenomenal job,” Dickinson said. “He fits in naturally and hits with the kind of power and precision that Maiden fans expect. But it’s interesting—his drumming doesn’t remind me of Nicko, even though he’s filling those shoes. It actually takes me back to an earlier era in a strange way.”
Dickinson elaborated that Dawson’s approach evokes memories of drummers from the band’s formative years. “There’s a rawness and punch to his playing that reminds me more of Clive [Burr] than Nicko, if I’m honest,” he said, referencing the late Clive Burr, Iron Maiden’s drummer from 1979 to 1982. “It’s not about comparisons—it’s just that certain players tap into different energies.”
Simon Dawson, a seasoned drummer known for his work with British rock acts like Saxon and The Wildhearts, joined Iron Maiden in early 2025 as McBrain continues recovering from a stroke he suffered in 2023. While McBrain made a partial return to the stage in late 2024, Dawson was asked to join for the band’s ongoing tour and upcoming studio sessions.
“Nicko’s been incredibly supportive,” Dickinson emphasized. “He’s the heart of Maiden’s rhythm section, and he’s still very much part of the band. But we also needed to keep moving forward, and Simon’s allowed us to do that without compromising the essence of who we are.”
Fans have had mixed reactions to the change, with many praising Dawson’s technical prowess while others miss McBrain’s unique swing and flair. But Dickinson insists that the spirit of Iron Maiden remains intact.
“Every era of Maiden has evolved,” he said. “We’ve always adapted without losing what makes us, *us*. Simon isn’t trying to be Nicko—he’s being himself, and that’s what makes it work.”
Dickinson also hinted that the band is working on new material with Dawson behind the kit, though he stopped short of confirming whether the drummer would feature on the next Iron Maiden album.
“It’s early days, but there’s definitely stuff brewing,” he teased. “Simon’s energy has sparked something in the studio. We’ll see where it takes us.”
As Iron Maiden charges ahead with their tour dates and creative ventures, fans are watching closely to see how Dawson’s presence might shape the band’s future. While there’s no replacing a legend like McBrain, Dickinson’s comments suggest that Dawson is more than just a stand-in—he’s a catalyst for a new chapter in the band’s storied legacy.
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