Cat Milk Supreme
Ancient Mariner
7th One laughs at this but I'm not sure why. It's true facts. Times change.
The Future Past Tour 2024
- Thread starter Mosh
- Start date
Cat Milk Supreme
Ancient Mariner
I've been reading Loopys book recently. Apparently Rods an arrogant prick, Di'anno kicked dogs and Clive was a cunt to work for/with. Mixing up 1991 and 1992 is the least of the issues. Apparently.I haven’t visited their website for quite some time, but I think that bit is definitely different to the previous hagiography by the same journalist/Rod’s cycling mate/head of the band’s Fan Club.
It still contains the same error about the band visiting South America in 1991 though.
It's not even that big a deal. I can't think of another arena rock band that has kept the emphasis on new material the way Maiden has over the years. Every other tour has featured half (or more) of the newest album being played live. If they're reaching the point where they know they only have one tour left and they are going to devote it to a greatest hits focused setlist, I don't mind them being transparent about it. In fact, I probably prefer that to the usual handwringing of "maybe we will make a new album, maybe we won't." One more greatest hits tour after one of the most ambitious tours (and albums) they have done will be a respectable cap for the band's 50 year legacy.
InfiniteDreamer544
Educated Fool
AAND the same error about The Book of Souls being released in 2016!It still contains the same error about the band visiting South America in 1991 though.
At the end of the day, I feel like the band's been on borrowed time since Bruce's cancer. So I'm just comfortable with whatever at this point. If this is the swansong, then I get to see them two more times. If it's not, then I get to see them again.
All good things must come to an end, and no matter how you cut it, the end is close enough for us to see. This year, next, five years from now...it's coming.
I'm old enough to remember when people thought The Final Frontier was it. And we've gotten two albums and four massive tours since.
All good things must come to an end, and no matter how you cut it, the end is close enough for us to see. This year, next, five years from now...it's coming.
I'm old enough to remember when people thought The Final Frontier was it. And we've gotten two albums and four massive tours since.
Kalata
Out of the Silent Planet
Very possible.Brazilian maiden fan accounts on instagram are claiming that the first official reference to the band's 50th anniversary has been made.
They said the official website has been updated on this part:
The Band - Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden were founded in 1975 by bassist Steve Harris and have grown to become one of the world’s most celebrated bands.www.ironmaiden.com
Can anyone confirm this part has actually been updated?
True, but I don't think that should be taken as a hint for the future, although who knows, Steve has mentioned semi-retirement with continuing to release albums as an idea. I think ''legacy'' here refers to the band's great impact and history.
Until 2026, yes. And it's logical after such a tour. If they don't release new music after that, then it's true. Plans can change and unfortunately for the first time they are not in a hurry to record an album as usual, but there is time in the next 2 years. I'm grateful for everything Maiden has done, especially the recent special tours and their respect for their own new material. Now it is difficult to make plans in advance.
I will enjoy everything ofc, just hope it will as interesting as always.
GhostofCain
Ancient Mariner
Claiming otherwise at this stage would have looked ridiculous.
Meliegree
Evening The Odds.
The Band page was updated somewhere before/around 03.09. There was full rewrite of this section:
Old text
New text
Also, I've written tool for content analysis some time ago. These are the results, nothing bad here:
The intentions of both texts differ in tone and purpose, which impacts how fans perceive them:
Old text
Iron Maiden are an institution. Over the course of 46 years they have come to embody a spirit of fearless creative independence, ferocious dedication to their fans, and a cheerful indifference to their critics that’s won them a following that spans every culture, generation, and time-zone. A story of gritty determination and courageous defiance of the naysayers, theirs has been an adventure like no other.
Founded by bassist Steve Harris in the mid ‘70s, Iron Maiden were already firmly established as heavy metal’s brightest hopes when they stormed the world with their third album (and first with vocalist Bruce Dickinson) The Number Of The Beast in 1982. It would kick off a decade of classic releases and dogged touring that would come to epitomise the unrelenting, uncompromising, unswerving commitment they are now so well known for. That marvellous decade would also yield seven new studio albums, one live album, seven World Tours, as well as the creation of Eddie - one of the most iconic and recognisable figureheads of our age and the calling card of the most impassioned fan-bases anywhere.
What makes these qualities even more notable is that they developed almost entirely without the acknowledgement of mainstream media. While celebrity culture and the next big thing occupied the airwaves, Iron Maiden were embarking on the marathon 192-date 1984/5 World Slavery tour, playing at Rock In Rio in 1985, and mounting a command performance at the biggest-ever Monsters Of Rock festival at Donington in 1988 with 107,000 fans in attendance. But it’s really Iron Maiden’s iron-clad resolve to always push the boundaries that gives their career such astonishing distinction. From groundbreaking performances in Poland behind the Iron Curtain in 1984 at the height of the Cold War, around South America in 1991, through the Middle East and India in 2007, and Indonesia in 2011 among many others, Iron Maiden’s relentless forward momentum has left an indelible impression on the globe.
The ‘90s proved to be a difficult time for heavy metal bands in general, but Iron Maiden ploughed forward, notching up yet more success with albums like 1992’s acclaimed Fear Of The Dark and even weathering the departure of Bruce Dickinson in 1993. The band made two strong albums with new singer Blaze Bayley and continued to honour their commitment to intensive touring. However, it was the return of Dickinson and guitarist Adrian Smith (who originally left the band in 1990) in 1999 when Iron Maiden became a six-piece, that established the ultimate Iron Maiden line-up of Bruce Dickinson on vocals, Steve Harris on bass, Nicko McBrain on drums and “the three amigos” – Adrian Smith, Dave Murray and Janick Gers - on guitar, heralding a new golden age with the release of Brave New World album in 2000. With both 2003’s diverse and ingenious Dance Of Death album and its dark and daring follow-up, 2006’s A Matter Of Life And Death, they dazzled fans and critics alike. With each successive tour, whether revisiting classic songs from their first few albums or refusing to succumb to a nostalgia by playing A Matter Of Life And Death in its entirety, Maiden have accrued countless new young admirers by never being predictable while remaining predictably brilliant.
This brave new Maiden era reached an astonishing zenith during the band’s Somewhere Back In Time Tour that began in February 2008 and initially took the band 50,000 miles around the world in 45 days, flying in their own specially chartered Boeing 757, Ed Force One, piloted by Bruce Dickinson, a qualified airline captain, traversing the planet, from India to Costa Rica, Australia to Argentina, Sao Paulo to Tokyo. Ed Force One made TV news headlines around the world and the coverage of that tour was subsequently turned into an award-winning film and DVD Flight 666. Released in 2009, that stunning document of life on the road (and in the air) hit the No.1 slot in the music DVD charts in 25 countries, the same year the band picked up their first ever Brit Award for Best British Live Act.
More feats would follow - from reaching the number one spot in more than 28 countries simultaneously as well as reaching an all-time high of #4 on the Billboard with The 2010’s The Final Frontier, to the ensuing tour aboard Ed Force One which saw them hitting five continents in 66 days, to earning their first ever U.S. Grammy for Best Metal Performance for the song El Dorado, Iron Maiden’s most recent chapter is testament to their startling vitality.
In 2013 the Maiden England world tour took the band into Europe, the States, and South America, most notably hitting Brazil yet again for Rock In Rio which sold out 90,000 tickets within hours. That legendary year also saw a return to UK’s Donington Park on the 25th Anniversary of the band’s legendary headline 1988 performance during the Seventh Son World Tour.
Iron Maiden closed their Maiden England world tour in July 2014 headlining at Sonisphere Festival, Knebworth, delighting the crowds by having The Great War Display Team featuring Bruce Dickinson among its pilots, stage a sensational aerial dogfight in the skies above the Festival with Bruce flying his very own WW1 German Fokker Dr1, just hours before taking to the stage. The ensuing Maiden show marked the final chapter in the band’s trilogy of tours performing their 80’s repertoire.
2016/17 saw the band once again take to the road and the skies on tour with their 16th and first-ever studio double album, The Book Of Souls, a 92-minute masterpiece debuting at number one in the album charts of 43 countries, a rare occurence in today’s music industry, and a cannon-blast of exuberant, anthemic bravado that serves as cast-iron confirmation of just how much Maiden have left in the tank. This tour, with Ed Force One upgraded to a larger and more powerful model - a 747 Jumbo Jet piloted by Bruce Dickinson - enabled the band to reach over two million fans in six continents visiting 39 countries including first-ever performances in China, El Salvador and Lithuania. It also denoted a record sixth-time return to headline at Donington following two Monsters of Rock performances (1988 and 1992) and three Download Festivals (2003, 2007 and 2013), delighting fans who witnessed the band disembarking Ed Force One after landing at East Midlands airport, directly adjacent to the Festival site.
2018 and Maiden’s latest Legacy Of The Beast Tour is being hailed by fans and media alike as the most extravagant and visually stunningly live show of the band’s career to date. Both the production and the decades-spanning set-list of fan favourites and hits were inspired by their mobile phone game of the same name. The multi-themed concert opens with a replica Spitfire flying above the stage and progresses through a two-hour theatrical journey of ever-evolving interlocking stage sets with multiple incarnations of Eddie, pyrotechnics and special effects including muskets, claymores, flame throwers, a giant electrified crucifix, a noose, gallows and a gargantuan Icarus to name just a few.
Only a global pandemic could draw a halt to Iron Maiden’s momentum and relentless touring schedule, but they were busy behind the scenes. November 2020 saw the release of their latest double live album Nights Of The Dead, Legacy Of The Beast: Live In Mexico City, a celebration of their current Legacy Of The Beast tour, selling out headline stadiums, arenas and festival shows across Europe and North, South and Central America to close to two million fans. Little did those fans know that an even bigger story was about to unfold: Senjutsu, Iron Maiden’s first new music to be released in six years.
Senjutsu was released on September 3rd, 2021 and was spearheaded by the landmark video for The Writing On The Wall which dropped without any warning the month prior: a cinematic, animated tour de force which was replete with groundbreaking ideas and knowing nods to what is by what is now a truly immense legacy. It served as an epic statement of intent, and the fans agreed: Maiden’s 17th would debut at #1 in 27 countries, a colossal achievement only rivaled by the uncompromising artistic vision contained therein: proof positive of Maiden’s unfaltering belief in forward momentum, their trademark desire to keep climbing.
The release of Senjutsu also heralded a truly emotional and equally ambitious return to the live stage, and how better to respond to a changed world than with a changed tour. The resumed Legacy of the Beast dates would see the fusion of that storied setlist with the world of Senjutsu to thrilling and explosive effect and sold-out arenas around the world, including an unforgettable return to Rock in Rio.
Some bands would be tempted to cool their jets following a 139-date run, but not Maiden. Their steely determination to make up for lost time coupled with the rapturous receipt of Senjutsu both on record and on the live stage has birthed something truly unique in the annals of Maiden history: The Future Past tour, beginning in Slovenia this May. While the full details of Maiden’s plans are not yet known the stunning artwork tells a tale all its own. As Steve Harris and Rod Smallwood have already revealed, the next leg of Iron Maiden’s ongoing adventure will be a celebration of 1986’s seminal Somewhere in Time album, but in keeping with their unwavering commitment to always face forward, this historic tour will also feature unperformed songs from Senjutsu as well as a selection of classics from Maiden’s vast catalogue – something old, something new, but always Maiden through and through and guaranteed to please fans whenever, whenever they are…
Founded by bassist Steve Harris in the mid ‘70s, Iron Maiden were already firmly established as heavy metal’s brightest hopes when they stormed the world with their third album (and first with vocalist Bruce Dickinson) The Number Of The Beast in 1982. It would kick off a decade of classic releases and dogged touring that would come to epitomise the unrelenting, uncompromising, unswerving commitment they are now so well known for. That marvellous decade would also yield seven new studio albums, one live album, seven World Tours, as well as the creation of Eddie - one of the most iconic and recognisable figureheads of our age and the calling card of the most impassioned fan-bases anywhere.
What makes these qualities even more notable is that they developed almost entirely without the acknowledgement of mainstream media. While celebrity culture and the next big thing occupied the airwaves, Iron Maiden were embarking on the marathon 192-date 1984/5 World Slavery tour, playing at Rock In Rio in 1985, and mounting a command performance at the biggest-ever Monsters Of Rock festival at Donington in 1988 with 107,000 fans in attendance. But it’s really Iron Maiden’s iron-clad resolve to always push the boundaries that gives their career such astonishing distinction. From groundbreaking performances in Poland behind the Iron Curtain in 1984 at the height of the Cold War, around South America in 1991, through the Middle East and India in 2007, and Indonesia in 2011 among many others, Iron Maiden’s relentless forward momentum has left an indelible impression on the globe.
The ‘90s proved to be a difficult time for heavy metal bands in general, but Iron Maiden ploughed forward, notching up yet more success with albums like 1992’s acclaimed Fear Of The Dark and even weathering the departure of Bruce Dickinson in 1993. The band made two strong albums with new singer Blaze Bayley and continued to honour their commitment to intensive touring. However, it was the return of Dickinson and guitarist Adrian Smith (who originally left the band in 1990) in 1999 when Iron Maiden became a six-piece, that established the ultimate Iron Maiden line-up of Bruce Dickinson on vocals, Steve Harris on bass, Nicko McBrain on drums and “the three amigos” – Adrian Smith, Dave Murray and Janick Gers - on guitar, heralding a new golden age with the release of Brave New World album in 2000. With both 2003’s diverse and ingenious Dance Of Death album and its dark and daring follow-up, 2006’s A Matter Of Life And Death, they dazzled fans and critics alike. With each successive tour, whether revisiting classic songs from their first few albums or refusing to succumb to a nostalgia by playing A Matter Of Life And Death in its entirety, Maiden have accrued countless new young admirers by never being predictable while remaining predictably brilliant.
More feats would follow - from reaching the number one spot in more than 28 countries simultaneously as well as reaching an all-time high of #4 on the Billboard with The 2010’s The Final Frontier, to the ensuing tour aboard Ed Force One which saw them hitting five continents in 66 days, to earning their first ever U.S. Grammy for Best Metal Performance for the song El Dorado, Iron Maiden’s most recent chapter is testament to their startling vitality.
In 2013 the Maiden England world tour took the band into Europe, the States, and South America, most notably hitting Brazil yet again for Rock In Rio which sold out 90,000 tickets within hours. That legendary year also saw a return to UK’s Donington Park on the 25th Anniversary of the band’s legendary headline 1988 performance during the Seventh Son World Tour.
2016/17 saw the band once again take to the road and the skies on tour with their 16th and first-ever studio double album, The Book Of Souls, a 92-minute masterpiece debuting at number one in the album charts of 43 countries, a rare occurence in today’s music industry, and a cannon-blast of exuberant, anthemic bravado that serves as cast-iron confirmation of just how much Maiden have left in the tank. This tour, with Ed Force One upgraded to a larger and more powerful model - a 747 Jumbo Jet piloted by Bruce Dickinson - enabled the band to reach over two million fans in six continents visiting 39 countries including first-ever performances in China, El Salvador and Lithuania. It also denoted a record sixth-time return to headline at Donington following two Monsters of Rock performances (1988 and 1992) and three Download Festivals (2003, 2007 and 2013), delighting fans who witnessed the band disembarking Ed Force One after landing at East Midlands airport, directly adjacent to the Festival site.
2018 and Maiden’s latest Legacy Of The Beast Tour is being hailed by fans and media alike as the most extravagant and visually stunningly live show of the band’s career to date. Both the production and the decades-spanning set-list of fan favourites and hits were inspired by their mobile phone game of the same name. The multi-themed concert opens with a replica Spitfire flying above the stage and progresses through a two-hour theatrical journey of ever-evolving interlocking stage sets with multiple incarnations of Eddie, pyrotechnics and special effects including muskets, claymores, flame throwers, a giant electrified crucifix, a noose, gallows and a gargantuan Icarus to name just a few.
Only a global pandemic could draw a halt to Iron Maiden’s momentum and relentless touring schedule, but they were busy behind the scenes. November 2020 saw the release of their latest double live album Nights Of The Dead, Legacy Of The Beast: Live In Mexico City, a celebration of their current Legacy Of The Beast tour, selling out headline stadiums, arenas and festival shows across Europe and North, South and Central America to close to two million fans. Little did those fans know that an even bigger story was about to unfold: Senjutsu, Iron Maiden’s first new music to be released in six years.
Senjutsu was released on September 3rd, 2021 and was spearheaded by the landmark video for The Writing On The Wall which dropped without any warning the month prior: a cinematic, animated tour de force which was replete with groundbreaking ideas and knowing nods to what is by what is now a truly immense legacy. It served as an epic statement of intent, and the fans agreed: Maiden’s 17th would debut at #1 in 27 countries, a colossal achievement only rivaled by the uncompromising artistic vision contained therein: proof positive of Maiden’s unfaltering belief in forward momentum, their trademark desire to keep climbing.
The release of Senjutsu also heralded a truly emotional and equally ambitious return to the live stage, and how better to respond to a changed world than with a changed tour. The resumed Legacy of the Beast dates would see the fusion of that storied setlist with the world of Senjutsu to thrilling and explosive effect and sold-out arenas around the world, including an unforgettable return to Rock in Rio.
Some bands would be tempted to cool their jets following a 139-date run, but not Maiden. Their steely determination to make up for lost time coupled with the rapturous receipt of Senjutsu both on record and on the live stage has birthed something truly unique in the annals of Maiden history: The Future Past tour, beginning in Slovenia this May. While the full details of Maiden’s plans are not yet known the stunning artwork tells a tale all its own. As Steve Harris and Rod Smallwood have already revealed, the next leg of Iron Maiden’s ongoing adventure will be a celebration of 1986’s seminal Somewhere in Time album, but in keeping with their unwavering commitment to always face forward, this historic tour will also feature unperformed songs from Senjutsu as well as a selection of classics from Maiden’s vast catalogue – something old, something new, but always Maiden through and through and guaranteed to please fans whenever, whenever they are…
New text
It’s a story like no other – a sound that changed the world. In the nearly 50 years since bassist Steve Harris’ vision was birthed in the humble working-class sprawl of East London Iron Maiden have grown to become nothing less than an institution.
More than tours that have encircled the globe or chart-smashing records that have inspired a fan base that can be found in every time zone, the near mythical status and undeniable cultural impact of Iron Maiden cannot be overstated. Yet it’s the fact that theirs is a tale which is still unfolding to this day which is truly worthy of note.
Maiden, simply, take no prisoners – not then, and not now, and in the decades since they cut their teeth they’ve grown to embody a spirit of fearless creative independence, unswerving dedication to their fans, and a cheerful indifference to their critics that can only be described as legendary.
By 1980 Iron Maiden had already earned themselves a cast-iron reputation for ferocious live-shows and a fiercely loyal following to match. Inspired by heavy rock and tempered by the heat of the burgeoning New Wave of British Heavy Metal, theirs was an upward ascent that would culminate in a landmark self-titled album debut which would immediately elevate them above their peers and serve as the prologue to a truly remarkable story that has captured the imagination of music lovers of every country, colour and creed. Emblazoned with the totemic image of Eddie, a ghoulish yet undeniably handsome and mysterious figure whose tantalizing image would go on to feature on every album and countless t-shirts hence, it was nothing less than a groundbreaking statement of intent. Many more would follow.
The rapturous response to 1981 follow-up Killers would confirm the growing suspicion that this was a band in a class of its own, and ensuing tours of Japan and the States as well as the UK and Europe would affirm both Maiden’s international appeal and their relentless commitment to reach fans wherever, wherever they are.
However it was really the release of their third album – 1982’s incendiary The Number Of The Beast – and a bold line-up change which would see original singer Paul Di’Anno replaced by ex-Samson frontman Bruce Dickinson that would set the scene for the epic chapters to come. A chart-smashing success, it would kick off a decade of now classic releases and dogged touring that would come to epitomise the indefatigable gallop that Maiden are so well known for. That marvellous decade would also yield seven new studio albums, seven world tours and one of the most revered and influential concert albums of all time; the seminal Live After Death.
What makes these qualities even more notable is that they developed almost entirely without the acknowledgement of mainstream media. While celebrity culture and the next-big-thing occupied the airwaves, Iron Maiden were embarking on the marathon 192-date 1984/5 World Slavery Tour, playing at Rock In Rio in 1985, and mounting a command performance at the biggest-ever Monsters Of Rock festival at Donington in 1988 with 107,000 fans in attendance. But it’s really Iron Maiden’s gritty resolve to always push the boundaries that gives their career such astonishing distinction.
From historically groundbreaking performances in Poland behind the Iron Curtain in 1984 at the height of the Cold War, around South America in 1991, through the Middle East and India in 2007, and Indonesia in 2011 among many others, Iron Maiden’s relentless forward momentum has left an indelible impression on the globe.
The changing landscape of the ‘90s proved to be a difficult time for heavy metal bands in general, but Iron Maiden pressed ever-forward, notching up yet more success with albums like 1992’s acclaimed Fear Of The Dark and even weathering the departure of Bruce Dickinson in 1993. The band made two strong albums with new singer Blaze Bayley and continued to honour their commitment to intensive touring. However, it was the return of Dickinson and guitarist Adrian Smith (who originally left the band in 1990) in 1999 when Iron Maiden became a six-piece, that established the ultimate Iron Maiden line-up of Bruce Dickinson on vocals, Steve Harris on bass, Nicko McBrain on drums and “the three amigos” – Adrian Smith, Dave Murray and Janick Gers - on guitar, and heralded a new golden age of Maiden and the band’s monumental third act.
It began with the release of the landmark Brave New World album in 2000, swiftly followed by 2003’s diverse and ingenious Dance Of Death album and its dark and daring follow-up, 2006’s A Matter Of Life And Death. This trio of releases, and the accompanying tours which saw them playing to millions of people around the world, proved Maiden could still dazzle fans and critics alike, all the while upending the notion that veteran acts should bask in the glow of former glories. Maiden instead opted to never be predictable while remaining predictably brilliant.
There is perhaps no better visual illustration of these triumphs than the band’s decision to charter their own 757 – Ed Force One – which would be flown by none other than Bruce Dickinson himself, by then a qualified airline captain. 2008’s ensuing Somewhere Back In Time Tour took the band 50,000 miles around the world in 45 days, and it also made for an unforgettable image – a band taking to the skies under its own steam both figuratively and literally. They did it again under the banner of 2010’s The Final Frontier Tour in support of the album of the same name. Fittingly, the release of 2016’s The Book Of Souls – a 92-minute masterpiece and the band’s first double-album – saw a corresponding upgrade to a 747 Jumbo Jet but revealed no change to their ongoing determination to always reach new lands, this time playing debut shows in El Salvador, Lithuania and China.
The Legacy of the Beast Tour would follow in 2018 – a stunning summation of the band’s creative output to date and a clever tie-in with Iron Maiden’s mobile game of the same name. Only a global pandemic could halt the momentum of that world-beating tour, but rest is not in Maiden’s vocabulary, and September 2021 saw the release of Maiden’s stunning 17th album, Senjutsu – their first record in six years. It would debut at #1 in 27 countries, a colossal achievement only rivaled by the uncompromising artistic vision contained therein: proof positive of Maiden’s trademark ability to summit dizzying heights and keep going.
It would also herald an emotional return to the live stage with a fusion of the classic Legacy Of The Best set-list with thrilling new Senjutsu tracks to sold-out arenas around the world, including an unforgettable return to Rock in Rio.
2023 would see Maiden continuing a Herculean upswing with a triumvirate of history-making headlines. First came the news that the Royal Mail UK were set to immortalise Iron Maiden with their very own set of commemorative stamps. A rare honour, it was an expression of Maiden’s undeniable status as one of the United Kingdom’s greatest exports and their unquestionable influence on world culture. Even Eddie got one. Then came Trooper beer’s tenth anniversary – a Bruce-curated range of beers named after the seminal single of the same name from 1983’s Piece Of Mind album. Trooper beer has now sold a staggering 35 million pints in 68 countries around the world.
And finally, spearheaded by artwork that perfectly encapsulates Maiden’s steadfast ability to chart new territory while remaining true to its roots and ever-growing legacy, the Future Past Tour began in May of 2023. A stunning visual and sonic blend of new music from Senjutsu and the band’s desire to revisit 1986’s legendary Somewhere In Time album, the tour – which has already sold out arenas throughout Europe and North America and now continues in 2024 – has brought generations of fans together to be enchanted by the past, the present, the eternal living legend that is Iron Maiden.
Alexander Milas
Eddietor, the official Iron Maiden Fan Club
More than tours that have encircled the globe or chart-smashing records that have inspired a fan base that can be found in every time zone, the near mythical status and undeniable cultural impact of Iron Maiden cannot be overstated. Yet it’s the fact that theirs is a tale which is still unfolding to this day which is truly worthy of note.
Maiden, simply, take no prisoners – not then, and not now, and in the decades since they cut their teeth they’ve grown to embody a spirit of fearless creative independence, unswerving dedication to their fans, and a cheerful indifference to their critics that can only be described as legendary.
By 1980 Iron Maiden had already earned themselves a cast-iron reputation for ferocious live-shows and a fiercely loyal following to match. Inspired by heavy rock and tempered by the heat of the burgeoning New Wave of British Heavy Metal, theirs was an upward ascent that would culminate in a landmark self-titled album debut which would immediately elevate them above their peers and serve as the prologue to a truly remarkable story that has captured the imagination of music lovers of every country, colour and creed. Emblazoned with the totemic image of Eddie, a ghoulish yet undeniably handsome and mysterious figure whose tantalizing image would go on to feature on every album and countless t-shirts hence, it was nothing less than a groundbreaking statement of intent. Many more would follow.
The rapturous response to 1981 follow-up Killers would confirm the growing suspicion that this was a band in a class of its own, and ensuing tours of Japan and the States as well as the UK and Europe would affirm both Maiden’s international appeal and their relentless commitment to reach fans wherever, wherever they are.
However it was really the release of their third album – 1982’s incendiary The Number Of The Beast – and a bold line-up change which would see original singer Paul Di’Anno replaced by ex-Samson frontman Bruce Dickinson that would set the scene for the epic chapters to come. A chart-smashing success, it would kick off a decade of now classic releases and dogged touring that would come to epitomise the indefatigable gallop that Maiden are so well known for. That marvellous decade would also yield seven new studio albums, seven world tours and one of the most revered and influential concert albums of all time; the seminal Live After Death.
What makes these qualities even more notable is that they developed almost entirely without the acknowledgement of mainstream media. While celebrity culture and the next-big-thing occupied the airwaves, Iron Maiden were embarking on the marathon 192-date 1984/5 World Slavery Tour, playing at Rock In Rio in 1985, and mounting a command performance at the biggest-ever Monsters Of Rock festival at Donington in 1988 with 107,000 fans in attendance. But it’s really Iron Maiden’s gritty resolve to always push the boundaries that gives their career such astonishing distinction.
From historically groundbreaking performances in Poland behind the Iron Curtain in 1984 at the height of the Cold War, around South America in 1991, through the Middle East and India in 2007, and Indonesia in 2011 among many others, Iron Maiden’s relentless forward momentum has left an indelible impression on the globe.
The changing landscape of the ‘90s proved to be a difficult time for heavy metal bands in general, but Iron Maiden pressed ever-forward, notching up yet more success with albums like 1992’s acclaimed Fear Of The Dark and even weathering the departure of Bruce Dickinson in 1993. The band made two strong albums with new singer Blaze Bayley and continued to honour their commitment to intensive touring. However, it was the return of Dickinson and guitarist Adrian Smith (who originally left the band in 1990) in 1999 when Iron Maiden became a six-piece, that established the ultimate Iron Maiden line-up of Bruce Dickinson on vocals, Steve Harris on bass, Nicko McBrain on drums and “the three amigos” – Adrian Smith, Dave Murray and Janick Gers - on guitar, and heralded a new golden age of Maiden and the band’s monumental third act.
It began with the release of the landmark Brave New World album in 2000, swiftly followed by 2003’s diverse and ingenious Dance Of Death album and its dark and daring follow-up, 2006’s A Matter Of Life And Death. This trio of releases, and the accompanying tours which saw them playing to millions of people around the world, proved Maiden could still dazzle fans and critics alike, all the while upending the notion that veteran acts should bask in the glow of former glories. Maiden instead opted to never be predictable while remaining predictably brilliant.
There is perhaps no better visual illustration of these triumphs than the band’s decision to charter their own 757 – Ed Force One – which would be flown by none other than Bruce Dickinson himself, by then a qualified airline captain. 2008’s ensuing Somewhere Back In Time Tour took the band 50,000 miles around the world in 45 days, and it also made for an unforgettable image – a band taking to the skies under its own steam both figuratively and literally. They did it again under the banner of 2010’s The Final Frontier Tour in support of the album of the same name. Fittingly, the release of 2016’s The Book Of Souls – a 92-minute masterpiece and the band’s first double-album – saw a corresponding upgrade to a 747 Jumbo Jet but revealed no change to their ongoing determination to always reach new lands, this time playing debut shows in El Salvador, Lithuania and China.
The Legacy of the Beast Tour would follow in 2018 – a stunning summation of the band’s creative output to date and a clever tie-in with Iron Maiden’s mobile game of the same name. Only a global pandemic could halt the momentum of that world-beating tour, but rest is not in Maiden’s vocabulary, and September 2021 saw the release of Maiden’s stunning 17th album, Senjutsu – their first record in six years. It would debut at #1 in 27 countries, a colossal achievement only rivaled by the uncompromising artistic vision contained therein: proof positive of Maiden’s trademark ability to summit dizzying heights and keep going.
It would also herald an emotional return to the live stage with a fusion of the classic Legacy Of The Best set-list with thrilling new Senjutsu tracks to sold-out arenas around the world, including an unforgettable return to Rock in Rio.
2023 would see Maiden continuing a Herculean upswing with a triumvirate of history-making headlines. First came the news that the Royal Mail UK were set to immortalise Iron Maiden with their very own set of commemorative stamps. A rare honour, it was an expression of Maiden’s undeniable status as one of the United Kingdom’s greatest exports and their unquestionable influence on world culture. Even Eddie got one. Then came Trooper beer’s tenth anniversary – a Bruce-curated range of beers named after the seminal single of the same name from 1983’s Piece Of Mind album. Trooper beer has now sold a staggering 35 million pints in 68 countries around the world.
And finally, spearheaded by artwork that perfectly encapsulates Maiden’s steadfast ability to chart new territory while remaining true to its roots and ever-growing legacy, the Future Past Tour began in May of 2023. A stunning visual and sonic blend of new music from Senjutsu and the band’s desire to revisit 1986’s legendary Somewhere In Time album, the tour – which has already sold out arenas throughout Europe and North America and now continues in 2024 – has brought generations of fans together to be enchanted by the past, the present, the eternal living legend that is Iron Maiden.
Alexander Milas
Eddietor, the official Iron Maiden Fan Club
Also, I've written tool for content analysis some time ago. These are the results, nothing bad here:
The intentions of both texts differ in tone and purpose, which impacts how fans perceive them:
1.
- Intention: This text is a typical celebration of Iron Maiden's career. It highlights their achievements, cultural influence, and global reach. The goal is to emphasize their uniqueness, legendary concerts, and artistic independence.
- Tone: Optimistic, triumphant, and proud. The focus is on the band's greatness, success, and ongoing activity, giving the impression that their story is far from over. This is a piece that celebrates the past while emphasizing that Iron Maiden still has much to offer.
- Message: Iron Maiden is a living legend that continues to create, tour, and thrive. The reminder of their past successes serves to highlight continuity rather than the end of their career.
2.
- Intention: Although still celebratory, this text feels more reflective. It summarizes 50 years of Iron Maiden’s career with a strong focus on past achievements and a kind of legacy wrap-up. The emphasis on the 50th anniversary and longevity may give the impression that the band is contemplating an end or approaching a final stage.
- Tone: Nostalgic and summarizing. It feels less energetic and more reflective about the band’s long history. For many fans, especially those sensitive to such cues, this tone might seem like a hint of upcoming changes.
- Message: While it doesn’t explicitly suggest the end of the band’s career, the way it highlights the 50-year milestone and adopts a reflective tone might make fans feel that Iron Maiden is nearing some sort of closure, sparking concerns about their future.
Summary:
- The first text focuses on the band's ongoing journey and future plans, reassuring fans and building a positive narrative about Iron Maiden’s future.
- The second text emphasizes achievements and longevity, which might come across as the band "closing a chapter," sparking understandable concerns among fans.
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I think it's an unusual approach from the management/publicists.
These days, most bands have the “we'll see what happens” approach. It's more realistic and honest and yet the fans also know that it won't go on forever.
Just like the Scorpions, who have also learned something about that.
Matthias Jabs: “Uh, we don't know when to finish. No, we tried. In 2010, we announced the final tour, which lasted only two and a half years. And then, you know, nobody wanted to let us go, which is nice. All the promoters from around the world said, 'You can't leave us now. And the fans especially said, 'SCORPIONS, don't stop.' And that's 12 years ago [since the completion of the 'final' tour]. And we have so much fun doing what we are doing. And this year is the 'Love At First Sting' anniversary tour, a great new show. And then we are looking forward to next year where we are planning a few things like the big birthday parties with SCORPIONS and friends, but nothing definite yet.”
Source: Interview at the Graspop Metal Meeting
These days, most bands have the “we'll see what happens” approach. It's more realistic and honest and yet the fans also know that it won't go on forever.
Just like the Scorpions, who have also learned something about that.
Matthias Jabs: “Uh, we don't know when to finish. No, we tried. In 2010, we announced the final tour, which lasted only two and a half years. And then, you know, nobody wanted to let us go, which is nice. All the promoters from around the world said, 'You can't leave us now. And the fans especially said, 'SCORPIONS, don't stop.' And that's 12 years ago [since the completion of the 'final' tour]. And we have so much fun doing what we are doing. And this year is the 'Love At First Sting' anniversary tour, a great new show. And then we are looking forward to next year where we are planning a few things like the big birthday parties with SCORPIONS and friends, but nothing definite yet.”
Source: Interview at the Graspop Metal Meeting
matic22
Ancient Mariner
Meliegree
Evening The Odds.
Damn, I've loved this guitar.
matic22
Ancient Mariner
If they have a spare neck, it's a 2 minute fix. Even if they don't, they can glue it in clamps, leave for for 12 hours and it's good.
It's not an original neck anyways. The original one was maple.
That guitar has seen it worse. Judging by photos, the body was in 2 pieces at least twice, which is much much worse of a break. Also apparently Janick threw it from lighting rig to the floor during his solo at Donnington in his Gillan days.
But I'm sure there are spare necks for all 3 guitarists. Adrian also got posessed by something in Freiburg 2018 and intentionally broke off the headstock of his #1 Maple/black pickguard prototype. Guitar was re-necked and used during next show and is still used.
matic22
Ancient Mariner
So, Janick clipped the floor with the headstock during guitar spins... It was a matter of time.
You can see Eddie Marsh searching for the broken piece at the end, so he can re-glue it.
matic22
Ancient Mariner
It seems like Adrian swapped drop D Jacksons around again. Here he is playing the 2nd prototype with chipped pickguard.