Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain has given fans an update on his health.
The drummer is a key component of the band’s sound, one of the biggest music exports this country has had in the past 50 years. Still going strong, Iron Maiden’s 2021 album ‘Senjutsu’ tapped into their core sound, with Clash writer Sam Walker-Smart commenting:
“On paper, an overblown piece inspired by feudal Japan made by a load of Brits in their 60s shouldn’t be rocking so hard in 2021 – but that’s Iron Maiden for you. They persevere, they entertain the masses and have well-earned the mantel of legends. Trend and time can’t touch them, and with ‘Senjutsu’ they’ve produced one of their best albums of the past 20 years.”
Earlier this year, however, much-loved drummer Nicko McBrain suffered a serious stroke. Undergoing medical treatment, he’s worked continuously, tackling physical therapy with his customary good grace.
In a new update, he reveals that at one point he feared he might not be able to play the drums again – but thanks to medical professionals, Nicko is on the road to recovery.
“In January I had a stroke, thank the Lord it was a minor one referred to as a TIA. It left me paralyzed on my right side from my shoulder on down, of course I was very worried that my career was over but with the love and support from my wife, Rebecca and family, my doctors, especially Julie my OT (Occupational Therapist), and my Maiden family I was able to bounce back to somewhere near 70% recovered.”
“After 10 weeks of intense therapy it was almost time to start rehearsals for our tour. I feel it’s important to let you know about this now instead of earlier as I was mainly concerned with doing my job and concentrating on getting back to 100% fitness. I’m not there yet but by the grace of God I’m getting better and stronger as the weeks go by.”
A message from Nicko:
— Iron Maiden (@IronMaiden) August 3, 2023
Hello Boys and Girls,
I hope this message finds you all well!
The reason I'm writing to you all today is to let you know of a very serious health problem that I have been through. In January I had a stroke, thank the Lord it was a minor one referred to as… pic.twitter.com/QvIt66Sy35
Manager Rod Smallwood adds: “Nicko being Nicko he did not want to make a fuss and cause any distraction to the tour at the time but, now that he is sure he will soon get there, he thought you fans should know straight from him rather than by any rumours!”
Iron Maiden will open a North American tour in a few weeks time.
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