Iron Maiden has released a heartfelt tribute to Nicko McBrain, their legendary drummer, who officially retired from touring this past weekend.
In a newly shared video, fans get a backstage glimpse of McBrain’s final performance in São Paulo, Brazil, the closing show of The Future Past tour. At 72, McBrain is seen walking toward the stage, pausing to share a humorous farewell with the crew.
“Thank you so very much for all the work you’ve done for us,” he says with a grin, “and I’m sure you’ll all appreciate that I hate you all!” The crew responds with laughter as McBrain heads to his drum kit for the last time.
Onstage, Bruce Dickinson delivers a tribute as the crowd chants “Nicko!” repeatedly. “For 42 years, Nicko has been in this band. He was a drummer before I was a singer, he was a pilot before I was a pilot, and now, he’s not leaving the band—he’s just not playing live with us anymore,” Dickinson explains, fueling cheers from the 45,000 fans in attendance.
Emotions run high as McBrain, visibly moved, acknowledges the audience. Behind the scenes, the band embraces their friend and bandmate, savoring the moment as they prepare for a new chapter in Iron Maiden’s legacy. Simon Dawson, a member of Steve Harris’ British Lion, has since been named the band’s new live drummer.
The full tribute video captures the laughter, tears, and camaraderie of the historic farewell.
