“We toured with Mötley Crüe, and I was like, ‘Please tell me I’m not going to end up like that!’”: Iron Maiden singer Bruce Dickinson recalls his wild years in the ’80s..

In a recent interview with ‘Classic Rock’, Iron Maiden’s frontman Bruce Dickinson reflected on the intense touring schedules and lifestyle choices during the 1980s. He recounted the band’s grueling pace, performing “eight shows in ten days over the course of eight months,” which led to significant stress and exhaustion.

During this period, Iron Maiden toured with Mötley Crüe, whose notorious indulgence in the excesses of rock ‘n’ roll culture left a lasting impression on Dickinson. Observing their behavior, he remarked, “We toured with Mötley Crüe. Complete f**king casualties, much of it self-induced. And I was like, ‘Please tell me I’m not going to end up like that!'”

This experience prompted Dickinson to seek healthier outlets to cope with the demands of touring. He turned to activities such as fencing to maintain his physical and mental well-being, aiming to keep his “brain clean” amidst the chaotic environment.

Reflecting on that era, Dickinson acknowledged the challenges of maintaining one’s identity and health in the face of relentless touring and the temptations that accompanied rock stardom. His conscious decision to pursue constructive activities highlights the importance of self-awareness and balance in sustaining a long-term career in the music industry.