Iron Maiden’s recent tribute to their legendary drummer, Nicko McBrain, is something you’ll feel in your bones.
After over four decades of pounding drums with the band, McBrain retired from touring this past weekend, and the band’s heartfelt goodbye has been an emotional rollercoaster for all. The band have since shared a video giving fans a peek behind the scenes at McBrain’s final show in São Paulo, Brazil—the last stop on The Future Past tour.
The video opens with McBrain strolling backstage, greeted by his crew with their usual mix of love and laughter. As he walks toward the stage, McBrain cracks his signature joke: “Thank you so very much for all the work you’ve done for us. And I’m sure you’ll all appreciate it that I hate you all!” The crew subsequently erupts in laughter. But it’s not just any form of laughter. It’s the kind reserved for only family and the closest of friends. You can really tell they’ll miss him just as much as the fans, possibly more.
Then lead singer Bruce Dickinson takes the mic, addressing the crowd of 45,000. “For 42 years, Nicko [McBrain] has been in this band,” he says, voice full of respect. “He was a drummer before I was a singer. He was a pilot before I was a pilot. Now, he’s not leaving the band. He’s just not playing live with us anymore.” The crowd’s roar is deafening, chanting “Nicko!” like the true legend he is. Meanwhile, McBrain stands behind his kit, visibly fighting back tears. Clearly overwhelmed by the glowing outpour of love he was receiving.
The band gathers around him, hugging, laughing, and sharing the weight of this monumental moment. It’s the end of an era. While Simon Dawson will take over as Maiden’s live drummer, McBrain’s legacy will be impossible to replace.
The tribute is a poignant reminder of how deeply they’ve shared this journey. For fans who’ve followed Iron Maiden through thick and thin, it’s more than just a goodbye—it’s a thank you, a celebration of everything McBrain’s given them. And honestly, it might make you cry a little bit too.
MORE IN Music
