Former Iron Maiden vocalist Blaze Bayley has announced that his drummer Martin McNee will take time away from the band’s remaining 2026 tour dates for a surgical procedure. Bayley shared the news on Instagram, assuring fans that McNee plans to return fully recovered for 2027.
McNee will miss shows scheduled across Italy, Winterstorm Troon, Planet RockStock Trecco Bay, and Underworld London for the rest of the year. The procedure has been long overdue, according to Bayley’s statement.
Welsh drummer Rich Newsome will step in as a temporary replacement for the remaining Iron Maiden anniversary shows of 2026. Newsome has filled this role before and previously did work on the Silicon Messiah project.
“Due to medical reasons and a surgical procedure that has been long overdue – Martin Mcnee will not be performing drums with Blaze Bayley for the remainder of 2026 for the shows in Italy, Winterstorm Troon, Planet RockStock Trecco Bay & Underworld London,” Bayley wrote. “We wish Martin the very best whilst he’s taking some time out to get repaired & recovered, and he’s certainly planning on being back fighting fit for 2027.”
“A familiar face, ‘Rich Newsome’ from Wales, will be taking the drum throne once again for us – filling in for Martin. He did a magnificent job last time filling in on the Silicon Messiah, and we are looking forward to having him with us on the remaining Iron Maiden anniversary shows of 2026.”
The announcement came as Bayley continues to perform the Iron Maiden anniversary shows across 2026.
McNee has been the drummer for Blaze Bayley since 2013 and became a core member of the band’s touring lineup. The 2026 shows are part of Bayley’s Iron Maiden Anniversary tour, where he performs songs from The X Factor, Virtual XI, and Best of the Beast alongside material from his solo album Silicon Messiah.
Newsome stepped in for McNee during the Silicon Messiah anniversary shows that took place in 2025. His return to the role ensures continuity for the band as it completes its remaining dates later in the year.
Bayley’s 2026 tour reflects his work spanning both his time with Iron Maiden and his solo career. The Iron Maiden anniversary shows highlight the albums he recorded with the band before his departure in 1999.
