Iron Maiden’s Nicko McBain to “take a step back from the grind of the extensive touring lifestyle”

nme.com:

Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain has announced he is stepping back from playing live with the band.The percussionist joined the legendary metal band in 1982, replacing Clive Burr, and has played on all of their albums since 1983’s ‘Piece Of Mind’.

He did, however, suffer a minor stroke, or transient ischaemic attack, in January 2023 which left him partially paralysed on his right side from the shoulder down.Now, as their ‘The Future Past’ world tour draws to a close, McBrain has confirmed that Saturday’s (December 7) show in Sao Paulo will be his last with the band.An Announcement from Iron Maiden pic.twitter.com/MzFfb8DC4A— Iron Maiden (@IronMaiden) December 7, 2024“After much consideration, it is with both sorrow and joy, I announce my decision to take a step back from the grind of the extensive touring lifestyle,” he wrote in a post on social media. “I wish the band much success moving forward.”“I will, however, remain firmly part of the Iron Maiden family working on a variety of projects,” he continued.

He added that he will continue to be involved in his ventures The British Drum Company, Nicko McBrain’s Drum One, Titanium Tart and Rock-N-Roll Ribs.“What can I say?

Touring with Maiden the last 42 years has been an incredible journey! To my devoted fan base, you made it all worthwhile and I love you!