Nicko McBrain , drummer for Iron Maiden , has announced that he will be stepping away from touring with the band. The musician's decision is effective almost immediately, and the São Paulo show this Saturday, the 7th, will be his last with Maiden.
"After much consideration, it is with sadness and also joy that I announce my decision to step away from the extensive touring lifestyle. Today, Saturday, December 7th in São Paulo, will be my last show with Iron Maiden. I wish the band success in their future endeavors," the drummer wrote in a statement published on social media .
McBrain clarifies that he will continue working with Maiden on “various other projects” and also on a variety of personal projects, focusing on his most recent business ventures. “Touring with Maiden for the last 42 years has been an incredible journey! To my devoted fanbase, you made it all worthwhile and I love you,” he writes.
A statement signed by the rest of the band and manager Rod Smallwood was also published in the same post. In it, the members express their love and affection for Nicko and thank him for 42 years of friendship and work, in addition to mentioning Iron Maiden's special relationship with Brazil.
“Since Rock In Rio 1985 we’ve had a special relationship with Brazil, so saying goodbye to touring in front of 90,000 fans here in São Paulo over two nights is poetic and you [Nicko] deserve all the praise that I’m sure these incredible fans will give you at this last show,” the statement said.
The band announces that McBrain's replacement on tour has already been chosen and will be announced soon.