Nicko McBrain says he’s irreplaceable in Iron Maiden.
Nicko McBrain retired from touring with Iron Maiden final 12 months
The 73-year-old drummer retired from touring with the Run to the Hills band after 42 years in 2024 and says that “nobody can change” him within the heavy steel group – though he did reward new touring sticksman Simon Dawson.
Nicko mentioned at a current gig: “Bless his coronary heart. However he is doing an exquisite job, and I am glad that you simply lot have welcomed him to the household.
“And no matter whether or not or not he is me, he isn’t – there isn’t any one that may change me. I am not saying to rub my ego or be (like), ‘I’m the perfect drummer for Maiden.’ By no means.
“So, yeah, thanks for bringing him into the household. They’re doing a splendid job on the market, though Bruce (Dickinson’s) timing is just a little bit shaky right here and there. However there’s nothing new there.”
Nicko did joke that Dawson is a “child” and that he stays “the best-looking bloke in Iron Maiden”.
The musician mentioned: “All of you realize that I stepped again from touring with the band, and so they’ve received a beautiful lad. He is a child. He is received a tiny little drum set…
“However here is the factor: it’s possible you’ll ask your self, how do I really feel a few new drummer taking my place after 42 years? Properly, the easy reply is I am nonetheless the best-looking bloke in Iron Maiden.
“I do not know whether or not Simon would agree with me ‘trigger he in all probability thinks he is the best-looking bloke, which I can guarantee you will not be the case.”
Nicko was hospitalised in 2023 after struggling a stroke and feared that he would not be capable of drum once more after the well being scare – though he labored laborious to regain his health and stamina.
He instructed Steel Hammer journal: “It was very, very tough.
“When it first occurred I assumed, ‘That is it, I’m not going to have the ability to play. I’ve received a tour developing in three months time.’
“I had lots of time for reflection within the hospital. My spouse was actually my bastion of energy and encouragement and he or she was with me all through.
“I did lots of energy workouts, lots of stretches with bizarre weights that they’ve and I received my stamina again.”
