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Nicko McBrain Plots July 2025 Florida Shows With TITANIUM TART Following Retirement From IRON MAIDEN Touring
Jul
After officially retiring from life on the road with Iron Maiden in late 2024, legendary drummer Nicko McBrain is far from finished behind the kit. The 73-year-old icon has announced a run of Florida performances this July with his new project TITANIUM TART, marking his first live shows since stepping away from Maiden’s grueling tour schedule.
🗓 TITANIUM TART Florida Tour Dates — July 2025
- July 17 – Capt Hirams – Sebastian, FL
- July 19 – Piper’s Pub – Pompano Beach, FL
- July 25 – The Barn – Sanford, FL
- July 26 – OCC Road House – Clearwater, FL
Joining Nicko McBrain on this more intimate venture are:
- Rob Stokes (bass)
- Eldad Kira (keyboards)
- Mike Rivera & Mitch Tanne (guitars)
- Paolo Velazquez (vocals)
TITANIUM TART promises a fresh, energized sound with seasoned players who are ready to bring raw rock energy to stages across the Sunshine State.
🥁 A New Chapter After a Historic 42-Year Ride
Nicko’s decision to step away from touring with Iron Maiden was emotional but necessary, as he revealed in a heartfelt 2025 interview with Chaoszine. After surviving a serious stroke in January 2023 that temporarily left him partially paralyzed, McBrain battled his way back to the stage — even completing Maiden’s massive “The Future Past” tour. However, the physical toll eventually became too much.
“It wasn’t an easy decision, but it was the best one,” McBrain said. “I wish I could still play with the guys… but I couldn’t give 100% anymore.”
Still, McBrain emphasized that he remains a part of the Maiden family, even as he transitions into less strenuous performance opportunities and new personal ventures.
📚 Autobiography in the Works
Nicko also confirmed that plans are underway for a full autobiography, which will detail:
- His five-decade drumming journey
- The stroke and recovery
- The decision to retire from touring
- His deep spiritual faith and personal battles, including a past diagnosis of laryngeal cancer
“We’re on the cusp of that,” McBrain said. “Watch this space.”
🎸 A Legacy Beyond Iron Maiden
While Iron Maiden will continue with new touring drummer Simon Dawson, Nicko’s influence on the band is unshakable. From 1983’s Piece of Mind to the final bow in São Paulo in December 2024, his flair, finesse, and footwork became essential components of Maiden’s evolution from NWOBHM upstarts to global arena giants.
✊ Still “Standing Two Years Later”
Despite his physical setbacks, McBrain remains as passionate and energized as ever, fueled by fans and faith.
“God gave me a stroke, but I’m still here. I’m still standing.”
With TITANIUM TART, Nicko now takes a victory lap of his own making — a reminder that the fire still burns, just on his terms.
📌 Full article via Blabbermouth
