After the stroke of Nicko McBrain, doubts occurred in the group
Steve Harris, bass player and co-founder of the British heavy metal band Iron Maiden, announced in a conversation with “Rock Candy” that the band almost never existed.
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Tour stop for drummer Nicko McBrain brought the band brooding
Drummer Nicko McBrain suffered a slight stroke in 2023. This led to a partial paralysis of his right half of the body – down from the shoulder. After the stroke, the band member could no longer perform his full performance on shows. In December last year he had his final appearance with the group. After the touring out of McBrain, the band came up with the question of whether it would not be time to draw a line after 50 years.
Tour already booked was decisive for the continued existence of Iron Maiden
A tour was already booked at the time of the stroke. The band therefore decided against the dissolution of the group and for a new drummer – during the tours. Iron Maiden appointed Simon Dawson as a worthy successor. If new material for the band is recorded, Nicko McBrain will still sit behind the drums.
Tour dates in Europe and headliner at the German Festival
In September, the band announced a European tour for 2026. There will be shows in Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Slovakia, Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, France and Portugal. Most recently, Iron Maiden was announced as headliners at the Nova Rock Festival 2026 in Germany.