Alex Van Halen received the 2023 Modern Drummer Hall of Fame award during an interview with Modern Drummer magazine. Former Iron Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain gave him the award and joked that Van Halen was the second-best drummer in the world. The two have been friends for many years and share a love for rock music.
“It gives me the greatest pleasure and the honor to present to you this 2023 Hall Of Fame award and you truly deserved it, mate. I love you to death, and you’re still the second-best Hall of Fame drummer in the world,” McBrain told him.
This is kind of a bittersweet moment because I do want to say, a shoutout to all the people in L.A. who may have lost. I know several people have lost their lives, everything in the fires. So let’s keep them in mind,” he added.
Van Halen thanked McBrain for the award and said he appreciated the honor. He also mentioned the fires in Los Angeles, saying that many people had lost their homes and lives. He asked people to keep them in their thoughts during this hard time.
McBrain retired from Iron Maiden in December last year but has stayed busy with different projects. He has been hosting “meat and greet” events at Rock N Roll Ribs, where he meets fans and other musicians. He also plays live shows from time to time, usually once a month or so.
Aside from performing, McBrain is working with the British Drum Company to create new drum designs. While music is still important to him, he is also spending more time with his family. He is focusing on a project called Titanium Tart, which will be a big part of his plans moving forward.
