Nicko McBrain retires

I have to say though, it's gonna be strange seeing the same old Maiden stage next year but without the enormous drum kit in the center. No current tour themed wrap either, pretty sure that was always a thing Nicko wanted and could do rather than something that was ever worked into the stage design beyond that. Iron Maiden for me is so synonymous with that type of kit that in a way I kind of hope the replacement is old school enough to want a big kit with lots of toms and cymbals up the wazoo.
 
When I saw Maiden live a couple of weeks ago I could feel Nicko struggling. Most bands, regardless of genre, see their drummer replaced once they reach a certain age. Playing drums is just too taxing. I think someone conducted a research and came to the conclusion that Blondie's drummer, during one gig, had the same amount of physical exertion than a pro footballer does. And bands play more often than footballers play... However, seeing Maiden without Nicko would be akin to seeing the Beatles without Ringo - Nick's personality as a musician came across in their sound, and gave them their identity. A new drummer will sound good but it won't be him.

I don't know if this is going to have an effect on Maiden's career, in the sense of them recording more new material or not... The rest of the band are younger but not that much younger - Bruce himself will be 68 when the tour's done.
 
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The_7th_one said:
All we know the new guy must be English.
Simon Phillips could be the right guy
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Simon Phillips would be an excellent pick and interesting to hear in a Maiden context for sure. I'm sure he'd do a damned good job too, that man can play just about anything and he's no stranger to live work with bands he wasn't originally involved in either.
 
The_7th_one said:
The thing is if they're going to hire a drummer for a few months or if he's gonna be a member of the band.
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I can't imagine Nicko being completely out of the picture. I posted earlier this year in one of the touring threads before, but I was wondering if Nicko would contribute any songwriting if they were to record another album.

With the current news this becomes even more interesting. Could this development motivate him to add something more to his legacy? He had some ideas in the last years, but nothing materialized. Unlike when Nicko replaced Clive, I believe the next drummer won't be an equal band member to the rest. He'll be a "touring member" rather than a "full member". Otherwise it would really surprise me, this late in their career.

I feel, going through the trouble of finding a proper replacement and having Nicko step back, points to them not being willing to retire after the Run For Your Lives tour. Really curious to see how this will develop.
 
As others already pointed out, this announcement was not a big surprise. But it's still really sad news. When I saw them last year, I did not realise it would be the last time I would see Nicko drumming in Iron Maiden. Despite the more basic drumming on the last tour, it was still a great gig with an amazing setlist. And the fact that Nicko still managed to do a tour after the TIA is just amazing. I'm happy that Maiden will continue, but it will be strange not seeing Nicko behind the drums. Nicko, thanks for everything. You're a legend!
 
This was very bittersweet to hear as a big fan.

I’m very sad he retires from touring. I was really looking forward to see him on stage next year, hoping he could do one final year, it would have been perfect. But there’s no doubt the stroke shocked him and probably hurt his abilites as well. But being the trooper he always is, he did his best yet again!

I’m sure no one from Maiden or up in their system read this board, but I just want to say THANK YOU for your 42 years on stage with the best band in the world. For your fantastic mood, laughs and great performance on many legendary album, I will miss you like crazy. Thank you Nicko, and enjoy your retirement from the road and your other project, you truly deserve it man. Take care of your self. You’re the same age as my mom, and seeing how good you have been performing, is so amazing :notworthy:

Now, the new drummer have some big boots to fill here!
 
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