If Iron Maiden ever had to resort to using backing tracks, Bruce Dickinson is making it known that it will never be a part of the band’s repertoire.
The lead singer, 66, spoke to Classic Rock before the band heads out on their 50th anniversary “Run For Your Lives” tour until 2026. While acknowledging that Maiden’s performances are highly physical, Dickinson downplayed Maiden cutting corners regarding their live shows.
“That’s the day I quit,” Dickinson said any potential backing tracks usage. “Or the day we stop. If it’s not real, it’s not Maiden. The idea that you can turn it into the Disneyland Maiden, by using backing tracks, a few tricks….No! Maiden has to be one hundred per cent real — and f---ing fierce!”
While acknowledging the live legacy of Iron Maiden won’t go on forever, Dickinson expressed his gratitude for the band’s entire history.
“I think Maiden is a power for good in the world,” said Dickinson. “It really is. You see that every night in the audience. Ironically, we’re now getting to enjoy it as well, whereas in the early days, we were so caught up in it that it never occurred to us to go: ‘It’s great.’”
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Murjani Rawls may be reached at mrawls@njadvancemedia.com