Former Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain has not completely ruled out returning to the studio with his longtime bandmates. Although he retired from touring with the heavy metal legends in December 2024, McBrain says he would love to contribute to the band’s next studio album if the opportunity arises.
The drummer’s comments have sparked fresh excitement among fans who would welcome one more recording collaboration between McBrain and Iron Maiden.
Nicko McBrain Says He Would Welcome a Guest Spot on the Next Iron Maiden Album
In a recent interview with Berlin-based Star FM, McBrain revealed that he has not discussed recording a new album with Iron Maiden bassist and founder Steve Harris. The two musicians spoke recently, but their conversation did not touch on the band’s recording plans.
McBrain recalled asking Harris earlier this year whether he planned to work on new music during his upcoming break from touring.
According to the drummer, Harris replied that he had not given a new record much thought at the time.
However, McBrain believes that does not necessarily mean Iron Maiden has ruled out another studio album. He also mentioned that frontman Bruce Dickinson would like to make one.
For now, though, the band has no confirmed plans to enter the studio.
A New Album Could Mean Another Massive World Tour
McBrain also offered an interesting perspective on why Iron Maiden might hesitate to record another album: the enormous touring commitment that would inevitably follow.
The drummer pointed out that making a record involves much more than simply writing and recording songs. The band would also need to distribute the album and take it on the road, potentially committing to another two-year world tour.
Considering the band’s demanding live performances and the members’ ages, McBrain wondered whether that commitment could influence their decision.
“But you gotta bear in mind, if they make an album, you gotta go out and tour it. So there’s another couple of years down the line to, first of all, you’ve gotta get the album made, get it made and distribute it and all that. And then that’s more time, more time. Then you’ve gotta go tour it,” he explained.
He added, “Not to say the fact that they don’t wanna go out and tour, but we’re all getting long in the tooth now. And these are high-energy shows. I’m not saying that they’re gonna retire, but here’s the thing: if you do another record, you’re gonna have to go out and tour it. And that’s a world tour, over two years. That’s in my head. I’m thinking, well, is that what’s keeping them from doing an album? I don’t know. But at the minute, there’s no plan on doing a record. But if they do, I would love to do a couple of songs on it. Why not?”
