Bruce Dickinson recently reflected on the rock and roll scene of the 1980s in an interview with Classic Rock, discussing how he stayed grounded while navigating an industry dominated by drugs and alcohol, especially during Iron Maiden’s tours.
He explained that he took up activities like fencing to maintain balance in his life, contrasting his lifestyle with that of his peers. Recalling Iron Maiden’s time on the road with Mötley Crüe, he described them as “complete f-cking casualties” due to their excessive partying, admitting that he feared ending up the same way.
, “We toured with Mötley Crüe. Complete f-cking casualties, much of it self-induced. And I was like, ‘Please tell me I’m not going to end up like that!’”
Dickinson specifically referenced Iron Maiden’s World Slavery Tour in support of Powerslave, during which Mötley Crüe joined them for the European leg in 1984. By the end of the tour, Dickinson experienced a turning point in his life, stating that he considered leaving music altogether, believing it had negatively impacted his relationships.
He ultimately left Iron Maiden in 1993 but returned in 1999. Now, he and the band are preparing for the Run for Your Lives World Tour, which kicks off in May and celebrates their first nine albums.
This tour will move forward without longtime drummer Nicko McBrain, who announced his retirement on December 7. Simon Dawson will step in to replace him for the upcoming performances.
