Nicko McBrain

He also recalls the moment he knew it was time to stop touring with the band.

The 45,000-strong crowd gave the tearful 42-year Iron Maiden veteran a standing ovation.

It's "a name familiar to many of our fans," the band said in a statement.

The band's longtime drummer has been battling the effects of a stroke since 2023.

"Of course, I was very worried that my career was over," the drummer said.

Happy Birthday today (June 5) to drummer Nicko McBrain of Iron Maiden. He’s 66. Also celebrating is bassist Aaron “P-Nut” Wills of 311 (44).

Watch 68-year-old Jenny Darren stun the judges and audience of 'Britain’s Got Talent' crushing a version of the AC/DC's 'Highway to Hell.'

Happy Birthday today (June 5) to drummer Nicko McBrain of Iron Maiden. He’s 65. Also celebrating is bassist Aaron “P-Nut” Wills of 311 (43).

Happy Birthday today (June 5) to drummer Nicko McBrain of Iron Maiden. He’s 64. Also celebrating is bassist Aaron "P-Nut" Wills of 311 (42).