Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain Announces His Retirement From Touring

Heavy Metal legendary drummer Nicko McBrain has announced he has retired from the band Iron Maiden. His final live performance will be tonight in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Citing his desire to step back from the grind of extensive touring in a prepared statement, Nicko will still be involved in other future Maiden activities.

The band also released a statement honoring their friend and celebrating his nearly 40 years with the band. The band has also chosen a replacement, which they will announce soon. See the statements below.

Iron Maiden‘s longtime manager Rod Smallwood of Phantom Music Management commented:

“Nicko, and we all love you too!! Thank you for being an irrepressible force behind the drum kit for MAIDEN for 42 years and my friend for even longer. I speak on behalf of all the band when I say we will miss you immensely!