Iron Maiden has introduced a new drummer following the recent departure of their long-time member, Nicko McBrain.
McBrain, who replaced Clive Burr in 1982, has been a key part of the legendary metal band, contributing to every album since 1983’s *Piece Of Mind*. However, he experienced a transient ischaemic attack (minor stroke) in January 2023, which left him partially paralyzed on his right side from the shoulder down.
As the band’s *The Future Past* world tour comes to an end, McBrain confirmed that the December 7 show in São Paulo marked his final performance with Iron Maiden. He explained his decision to retire from the band as a need to “step back from the grind of extensive touring.”
The band has now announced Simon Dawson as their new drummer. Dawson is a member of British Lion, the hard rock project led by Iron Maiden founder Steve Harris. He initially joined during the making of Harris’ 2012 solo album, *British Lion*, playing on three tracks, and later performed on their 2020 album, *The Burning*.
Dawson will officially join Iron Maiden for their 2025 *Run For Your Lives* tour, which is set to begin on May 27 in Budapest, Hungary.
