Mike Portnoy thinks he’s not British enough for the Iron Maiden drummer spot after Nicko McBrain’s retirement.
“That’s such a hypothetical scenario and question,” the Dream Theater drummer replied when asked by Metal Pilgrim if he would fill in for Nicko in Iron Maiden. “I mean, look, on the surface, of course.”
He added, “They’re one of the biggest bands in the world and one of my favorite bands in the world. So, yeah, I hear that question come up all the time about [Rush’s] Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson as well. It’s such a hypothetical.”
“But I think for Iron Maiden in particular, it’s not even worth posing that question because I don’t think in a million years they would have anybody in the band that wasn’t English,” Portnoy explained.
The rocker went on to talk about why he wouldn’t have a place in Iron Maiden, “They are such a such a traditionally British band that I think this is a hypothetical question that needn’t even be asked because it would be an impossibility — unless I changed my nationality.”
Last month, McBrain announced he was retiring from touring. His last show with the band was on December 7, in São Paulo, Brazil. Portnoy reacted to Nicko’s retirement from Iron Maiden. He posted several pictures with McBrain on social media and shared a message for him.
Mike said at the time, “Shocked to hear the announcement of Nicko McBrain’s retirement from touring with Iron Maiden. I wish my friend all the best in his retirement… thanks for all the years of music and friendship, you’re the best Nicko.”
McBrain had been touring with Iron Maiden for 42 years. Bruce Dickinson paid tribute to McBrain during the last show, calling it a celebration of his legacy. The band introduced their new drummer, Simon Dawson, who will join them for their 2025 ‘Run For Your Lives’ tour starting on May 27 in Budapest.
