The 72-year-old drummer of Iron Maiden's Nico McBrain has announced that he is quitting the band after 42 years, the Independent reported.
The musician, whose real name is Michael Henry McBrain, has been part of the heavy metal band for more than four decades. He announced his retirement in a statement on the band's website and social media.
McBrain's announcement comes a year after he revealed he was “about 70 percent recovered” following the stroke he suffered in January 2023 that left him paralyzed from his right shoulder down.
In October, the band's first frontman, Paul Di’Ano, died.
Iron Maiden were first formed in 1975. by bassist and songwriter Steve Harris, and McBrain joined in 1982. The band will announce the name of the new drummer in due course.
„After much consideration, with both sorrow and joy, I announce my decision to take a step back from the tedium of the touring life,” he wrote.
McBrain's last performance on stage took place last night in the Brazilian city of Sao Paulo.
"I wish the band much success going forward. However, I will remain firmly a part of the IRON MAIDEN family, working on various projects that my longtime managers, Rod Smallwood and Andy Taylor, have for me.“
The drummer added that he has a number of personal endeavors he is looking forward to working on.
„I will be 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!“ he said.