Former Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain recently made playful comments about his replacement and bandmate Bruce Dickinson during a Florida concert with his Titanium Tart project. The remarks were captured in a fan’s video.
McBrain’s remarks addressed both his feelings about stepping back from Iron Maiden after 42 years and his observations about the band’s current state.
“All of you know that I stepped back from touring with [Iron Maiden], and they’ve got a lovely lad [Simon Dawson playing with them now],” McBrain said. “He’s a baby. He’s got a little tiny drum set.”
The veteran drummer then shared his perspective on being replaced after more than four decades with the band.
“But here’s the thing: you may ask yourself, how do I feel about a new drummer taking my place after 42 years?” he continued. “Well, the simple answer is I’m still the best-looking bloke in Iron Maiden. I don’t know whether Simon would agree with me ’cause he probably thinks he’s the best-looking [member of Iron Maiden], which I can assure you is not the case. Bless his heart.”
McBrain expressed support for his replacement while maintaining his characteristic humor.
“But he’s doing a wonderful job and I’m glad that you lot have welcomed him to the family,” he said. “And regardless of whether or not he’s me, he’s not — there’s no one that can replace me. I’m not saying to rub my ego or be [like], ‘I am the best drummer for Maiden.’ Not at all.”
The drummer concluded with a subtle critique of his former bandmate’s performance.
“So, yeah, thank you for bringing him into the family,” McBrain said. “They’re doing a splendid job out there, although Bruce’s [Dickinson, Maiden singer] timing is a little bit shaky here and there. But there’s nothing new there.”
These comments have sparked speculation about potential tensions within the Iron Maiden camp following McBrain’s departure from touring duties.
McBrain’s departure from Iron Maiden’s touring lineup comes at a significant time for the legendary heavy metal band. They are preparing for major milestone celebrations and facing health challenges that have reshaped their lineup.
Loudwire reported that Simon Dawson had previously played with Steve Harris’ other band, British Lion, since 2013 before joining Iron Maiden for their 2025 Run For Your Lives World Tour. This connection to the Iron Maiden family through Harris’ side project provided Dawson with valuable experience working alongside the band’s founding bassist before stepping into the demanding role of replacing McBrain.
The timing of McBrain’s retirement coincides with Iron Maiden’s preparation for their 50th anniversary celebrations. Hello Rayo noted that Bruce Dickinson recently promoted the 2025 tour, describing it as featuring a “setlist for the ages” with songs fans haven’t seen live in years. This milestone tour represents a major transition period for the band as they navigate performing their classic material with a new drummer.
McBrain’s decision to step back from touring was influenced by serious health concerns. Loudwire confirmed that the veteran drummer suffered a stroke in January 2023. This ultimately led to his retirement from the demanding schedule of international touring. Despite this health setback, McBrain has continued performing with his own projects, as evidenced by his recent Florida concert with Titanium Tart.
The transition period has highlighted both the challenges and continuity within Iron Maiden’s lineup. McBrain’s playful jabs at both Dawson and Dickinson suggest a lighthearted approach to the changes. They also underscore the significant adjustment period the band faces as they move forward with their anniversary celebrations and continue their legacy with a new drummer behind the kit.
