IRON MAIDEN Drummer Nicko McBrain Gives His Life To Christ

Seems like there's more to the previously-reported collaboration between former ANTHRAX guitarist Dan Spitz and IRON MAIDEN drummer Nicko McBrain than meets the eye. Cross Rhythms, a UK Christian Music Resource, posted the following article in February of this year (all quotes taken from a Willow Creek Association Newsfeature dated March/April 2001):

The drummer with million-selling heavy rock band IRON MAIDEN has become a Christian. Nicko McBrain, who recently finished an 18-month world tour in support of the band's Brave New World album, is now a part of the worship team at Spanish River Church in Florida, USA. The 48-year-old musician became a Christian through the witness and prayers of his wife Rebecca. McBrain, while visiting the Spanish River Church, found himself weeping. "I just sat there thinking, 'I didn't drink last night…why can't I stand?' " he told Willow Creek Association News. After praying to receive Christ, he began to read the Bible hungrily. "I had this love affair with Jesus going on in my heart."

An IRON MAIDEN fan became a Christian after McBrain shared his testimony at a church sponsored coffee house. "The way the Holy Spirit touched that room that night was immense," McBrain said. "I've never felt that way, before or since." Though he has played before 250,000 people, McBrain said he was more nervous when he began playing with the church worship team. McBrain told the News that after praying, he felt that he should remain with IRON MAIDEN, but "there's a greater calling on my life." He is considering enrolling in some seminary classes. "Without this church and this relationship with God, I don't know where I'd be right now. I just know that I want to be able to use my life for God.”

Cross Rhythms editor Tony Cummings commented, "It's wonderful news about the conversion of Nicko McBrain but also somewhat ironic. Back in the '80s and '90s all these books from evangelicals were appearing denouncing the music of heavy rock bands like IRON MAIDEN, ANTHRAX and MEGADETH as 'satanic'. Now in the last couple of years we've seen IRON MAIDEN's Nicko McBrain, ANTHRAX's Daniel Spitz and MEGADETH's Dave Ellefson all become Christians! Thankfully, some Christians were praying rather than playing the Pharisee."

In related news, THE REBECCA MCBRAIN BAND, featuring Nicko's wife Rebecca, have made available an eight-song CD for purchase via their official web site at this location. Currently unsigned, the group's music is being described on the site as "a combination of powerful rock laced with unique contemporary stylings. With Rebecca's thoughtful, heartfelt lyrics, and fresh style, she is a truly moving performer. Backed up by smashing percussion and frenetic fret action on both guitar and bass, they have managed to create a brand new sound of their own."