S Poddar
Bruce Dickinson, the iconic frontman of Iron Maiden, has made it clear that he would rather retire from live performances than compromise the band’s integrity by relying on backing tracks. In a candid interview, he emphasized that Iron Maiden will never fall into the trap of becoming a “Disneyland Maiden,” a reference to bands that use pre-recorded elements to enhance their live sound.
As one of the most revered figures in heavy metal, Dickinson’s stance on live performances is unwavering. With Iron Maiden’s 2025 ‘Run For Your Lives’ tour on the horizon, which celebrates their 50th anniversary, Dickinson expressed his passion for delivering a pure and raw experience to fans. The tour, which will take Maiden across the UK and Europe, promises a setlist consisting exclusively of tracks from their first nine studio albums. Kicking off in Budapest in May, the tour will visit major cities like Birmingham, Manchester, Dublin, London, and Glasgow, with tickets still available for some shows.
When discussing the current trend of bands incorporating backing tracks into their live performances, Dickinson made it abundantly clear that Iron Maiden will never follow suit. He shared a conversation he had with a fan, where he was praised for the band’s commitment to performing live without relying on technological tricks. The fan remarked on how many other bands use backing tracks, to which Dickinson responded firmly: “No! No, no!
” He emphasized that Iron Maiden’s commitment to authenticity is what sets them apart, stating, “Maiden has to be one hundred per cent real – and fucking fierce! ” For Dickinson, anything less would be unacceptable. This philosophy extends to every aspect of Iron Maiden’s live performances. He pointed out that while other bands may alter their sound or use backing tracks to fill out their music, Iron Maiden prides itself on delivering an authentic, untarnished performance. Dickinson expressed a strong sense of pride in the fact that the band doesn’t rely on “detuning” or any artificial enhancements. For him, this is what makes their music and live shows powerful and true to their roots. “If we use backing tracks, that’s the day I quit,” he added.“Or the day we stop”.
If it’s not real, it’s not Maiden.” The band’s upcoming tour, which will feature a mix of iconic tracks and new experiences for fans, promises to be a memorable one. Dickinson teased that there will be elements on the ‘Run For Your Lives’ tour that fans have never seen before. His enthusiasm for the tour is palpable, and he assured ticket holders that the shows would offer something truly special, making them feel like a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience. In addition to the tour, Iron Maiden fans can look forward to a major milestone for the band’s 50th anniversary.
Earlier this year, it was revealed that a new documentary is in the works, set to feature the final interview with the band’s original frontman, Paul Di’Anno, who sadly passed away at the age of 66 in early 2025. Although the title and release date for the documentary are still under wraps, the film is expected to arrive in the autumn, providing fans with an intimate look at the band’s incredible journey over the last five decades. The documentary will be directed by Malcolm Venville, known for his work on Churchill At War, and produced by Dominic Freeman, who worked on Spirits in the Forest – A Depeche Mode Film. Alongside the documentary, the band will also be releasing a visual book titled Infinite Dreams in the autumn. This collection will be a treasure trove of memorabilia, offering fans a deeper connection to the band’s history.
Featuring iconic album and single artwork, photos of the band’s instruments, handwritten lyrics, and rare photographs—some never seen before—the book will be a fitting tribute to the band’s legacy. The archive will also include images of stage props and other historical artifacts, making it a must-have for any dedicated Iron Maiden fan. As Iron Maiden celebrates this milestone anniversary, their dedication to remaining true to their roots is evident. While many bands may embrace technology to enhance their live shows, Dickinson’s commitment to authenticity has kept Iron Maiden at the top of their game.Whether it’s through their refusal to use backing tracks or their excitement about bringing fans new and exciting experiences, Iron Maiden proves time and time again that they are more than just a band—they are a force of nature. Their upcoming tour and documentary are sure to add another chapter to their legendary story, ensuring that their fans continue to experience the raw power of their music in its purest form.
