Nicko McBrain performed his last show with Titanium Tart Iron Maiden cover band , last Saturday, the 26th, at the OCC Road House & Museum in Clearwater, offering fans the chance to see him in action again. Titanium Tart features vocalist Paolo Velazquez , guitarists Mike Rivera and Mitch Tanne , bassist Rob Stokes , and keyboardist Eldad Kira .
At one point during the show, Nicko addressed the audience and said: [transcription via Blabbermouth ]: “You all know I stepped away from touring with Iron Maiden, and they have a lovely lad [ Simon Dawson ]. He’s a baby. He has a tiny drum kit…”
So Nicko joked: “But here’s the thing: you might ask yourself, how do I feel about a new drummer taking my place after 42 years? Well, the simple answer is that I’m still the best-looking guy in Iron Maiden. I don’t know if Simon would agree with me, because he probably thinks he’s the best-looking, which I can assure you is not the case.”.
Nicko continued: “God bless him. But he’s doing a wonderful job and I’m happy you’ve welcomed him into the family. And regardless of whether it’s me or not, he’s not, there’s no one who can replace me. I’m not saying to rub my ego or be like, ‘I’m the best Maiden drummer.’ Not at all.”.
“So, yes, thank you for bringing him into the family,” Nicko added. “They’re doing a splendid job, although Bruce [ Dickinson , Iron Maiden vocalist] timing is a little shaky here and there. But there’s nothing new in that.”
The series of four shows was the legendary drummer's first performance since retiring from touring with Iron Maiden in December 2024.
Nicko McBrain's retirement from performing with Iron Maiden.
Nicko's decision came during Iron Maiden's tour in Brazil. The band's last show took place at Allianz Parque on December 7th.
"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 at the time, in a statement published on social media .
As the drummer clarified, he continues not only working with Maiden on "various other projects," but also on a variety of personal projects. Nicko is 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 wrote.
READ ALSO: Iron Maiden: Find out what the first show of the 'Run For Your Lives Tour' was like
