Rock & Metal

IRON MAIDEN Announces New Drummer: ‘A Name Familiar To Many Of Our Fans’

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IRON MAIDEN, the iconic British heavy metal band, has officially announced Simon Dawson as their new touring drummer. Dawson, a former session drummer and long-time bandmate of bassist Steve Harris in BRITISH LION, will replace Nicko McBrain for the 2025 tour.

In a statement released on December 8, MAIDEN shared their excitement: “As ‘The Future Past Tour’ wraps up after 81 shows and over 1.4 million fans, we’re thrilled to announce that Simon Dawson will take over behind the drum kit for 2025. Simon is well-known to many of our fans, having worked with Steve Harris for over 12 years in BRITISH LION.”

Dawson, hailing from Suffolk, England, first joined forces with Harris in 2012. He contributed to the debut BRITISH LION album and its follow-up, The Burning, and toured extensively with the band in the US, UK, Europe, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Mexico, and South America.

Next year marks IRON MAIDEN’s 50th anniversary, which they will celebrate with the “Run For Your Lives Tour,” beginning in Budapest on May 27.

Nicko McBrain, 72, revealed on December 7 that he would retire from touring after 42 years with MAIDEN. In a heartfelt statement, McBrain explained his decision to step back from the demands of touring but emphasized that he would remain involved with the band in various projects.

“Touring with MAIDEN for 42 years has been an incredible journey,” McBrain said, adding his gratitude to fans. He also expressed excitement for the future, focusing on personal ventures and businesses.

MAIDEN’s manager, Rod Smallwood, paid tribute to McBrain’s remarkable contributions, calling him an “irrepressible force” behind the drums and stating, “Nicko is and will always be part of the MAIDEN family.” Smallwood also reflected on the significance of McBrain’s farewell in Brazil, where the band has long had a special connection, with massive crowds attending their shows since their 1985 appearance at Rock in Rio.

I'm Emma. I Love rock music, doing guitar reviews, and making food. I love writing works because it is the best way to provide information to people.

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