MusicThe drummer speculated to replace Nicko McBrain in Iron MaidenVeteran who had been in the formation for over 40 years confirmed his retirement from the stage this Saturday (7); last show will be in Brasilhoje at 1:46 pm

As previously reported, Nicko McBrain confirmed his departure from Iron Maiden after the show this Saturday (7) at Allianz Parque, in São Paulo. The information was confirmed through the band’s social networks.

There is still no information regarding the replacement. In a statement, the band only revealed that they had already selected the musician and promised an announcement soon.

However, speculation — which should not be treated as information — point to Joe Lazarus. Nephew of the bassist and founder Steve Harristhe young drummer already has a long resume in music.

The Englishman has worked with musicians and bands such as Voodoo Six, Twin Atlantic, The Last Internationale, Vennart (Biffy Clyro). He even collaborated with Phil Moggvocalist of UFO and one of Harris’s greatest idols — to the point where “Doctor Doctor”the band’s song, opens all Maiden shows.

There was even speculation that Lazarus was traveling with Iron Maiden to take over the drums if McBrain had any problems. However, the information is not correct, as the young drummer’s tour dates with other projects clashed with the heavy metal icons’ schedule.

Still, it is believed that Joe is a likely name due to Maiden always keeping his business among close people. It would be a risky move to bring into the group someone who is not used to dealing with Harris and his colleagues — which makes Lazarus someone with an ideal profile for the position.

It’s worth reinforcing: Joe is just speculated on the networks as a possible substitute and There is no official information regarding his entry. See below some videos of Lazarus playing Iron Maiden songs.

Official statements

In his text, Nicko McBrain thanks him for the 42 years of the group — he joined in 1982, in the position of Clive Burr — and says he will continue to be involved with activities in general. It just won’t be linked to the shows.

Read the 72-year-old drummer’s statement:

“Statement from Nicko McBrain: After much consideration, it is with sadness and joy that I announce my decision to step away from the routine of the extensive touring lifestyle. Today, Saturday, December 7th, in São Paulo, will be my last show with Iron Maiden. I wish the band much success from now on.

However, I will remain firmly part of the Iron Maiden family, working on a variety of projects that my long-time managers, Rod Smallwood and Andy Taylor, have in mind for me. I will also be working on a variety of different personal projects and focusing on my existing businesses and ventures including The British Drum Company, Nicko McBrain’s Drum One, Titanium Tart and of course Rock-N-Roll Ribs!

What can I say? Touring with Maiden for the past 42 years has been an incredible journey! To my devoted fan base, you made it all worth it and I love you! To my devoted wife, Rebecca, you have made everything infinitely easier and I love you! To my sons, Justin and Nicholas, thank you for understanding absences and I love you! To my friends who are always there for me, I love you! To my bandmates, you made a dream come true and I love you!

I look to the future with great excitement and great hope! I’ll see you soon, God bless you all, and of course, Up the Irons! – Nicko”

The band also spoke out, in a text from the manager Rod Smallwood. Read:

“Statement from Rod Smallwood on behalf of Iron Maiden:
Nicko,
And we all love you too!!

Thank you for being an irrepressible force behind the Maiden drum kit for 42 years and my friend for even longer. I speak on behalf of the entire band when I say that we will miss you immensely!

Since Rock in Rio in 1985 we have had a special relationship with Brazil, so to end a tour in front of 90 thousand fans here in São Paulo for two nights is poetic and you deserve all the honors that I’m sure these wonderful fans will give you in this last show.

Phantom is looking forward to many more years of working with you on the projects you mentioned and I’m sure we can develop some more special projects around the Maiden family and fan club!

The band and I have a thousand great memories from the last 42 years, great shows, many platinum and gold records and awards, love from fans and an extra beer on many occasions! This bond is forever! And, as Steve Harris says, ‘Nicko is and will always be part of the Maiden family.’

Rod, Andy, Steve, Bruce, Davey, Adrian and Jan

PS Maiden always choose their men and our new drummer will be announced very soon.”

Nicko McBrain’s health and the future of Iron Maiden

It is known that Nicko McBrain has suffered from health problems in recent times. In early 2023, he suffered a mini-stroke and had to undergo a long recovery process. In interviews, the 72-year-old musician admits that he can no longer play like he used to and needs to adapt his performance.

It has not yet been announced who will fill Nicko’s position. The band resumes activities on the road in mid-2025, with the celebratory tour “Run for Your Lives”, which celebrates its 50 years on the road.