The musician chose São Paulo to perform his farewell show from tours; Simon Dawson has been announced as the band’s new drummer
The drummer Nicko McBrain announced his retirement from touring with Iron Maiden and last Saturday, the 7th, he chose Saint Paul to perform his farewell show. On Tuesday 10th, the band published a video in tribute to the musician on the group’s YouTube channel and showed behind-the-scenes details of the performance.
The video, which lasts more than four minutes, shows Nicko hugging his bandmates and taking photos Allianz Park. The publication also contained a speech by Bruce Dickinson at the show, in addition to the moment in which the drummer received an ovation from the Brazilian audience.
“For 42 years, Nicko has been in this band. He was a drummer before I became a singer. He was a pilot before I became a pilot,” said the singer, known for flying the band’s plane. Bruce stressed that the musician did not leave the band, he simply chose not to play live anymore.
“We have a lot of music to play and I want the rest of the night to be a celebration of Nicko, a celebration of the joy he brought to everyone around the world, not just here in Brazil,” Bruce concluded. Watch the video above.
Nicko McBrain announces retirement from tour
The drummer announced that he will withdraw from the tour with Iron Maiden on Saturday and will perform at Allianz Parque on the same day. In a statement posted on the group’s Instagram, the musician revealed his desire to move away from “long tours” and focus on personal projects, but said he would not sever his ties with Iron Maiden and his colleagues.
“I wish the band much success from now on,” Nicko wrote in the released note. “To my devoted fans, you made it all worth it and I love you! To my devoted wife, Rebecca, you made it infinitely easier and I love you! To my sons, Justin and Nicholas, thank you for understanding the 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!”
In the same publication, the band also shared a statement signed by the group’s manager, Rod Smallwood, on behalf of Iron Maiden. Celebrated Nicko McBrain’s decision to end his touring career in Brazil. It was the fourteenth time the band had come to the country.
“Since Rock in Rio in 1985, we have had a special relationship with Brazil,” he wrote. “So, finishing a tour with 90 thousand fans here in Sao 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.”
Simon Dawson is the new drummer of Iron Maiden
On Sunday 8th, musician Simon Dawson was announced as the band’s new drummer. He has been part of the group British Lion, a side project of Iron Maiden bassist Steve Harris, for 12 years. The musician was also a member of other important bands, such as the English The Outfield, known for hits such as Your love AND All the love in the world. Find out who Simon Dawson is here.
The drummer will join the band next year, when Iron Maiden celebrates 50 years with the tour The race for your life. The tour will start on May 27th in Budapest.
Source: Terra
Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.
