Iron Maiden Manager Wishes Fans Filming Shows “Nothing But a Sore Arm”

Iron Maiden’s manager expresses frustration toward fans filming gigs, urging them to stay present and enjoy the show live.

Iron Maiden’s Stance on Mobile Phone Filming at Concerts

Iron Maiden’s manager has openly wished fans who insist on filming their concerts “nothing but a sore arm.” This strong message highlights the band’s desire for fans to fully immerse themselves in the live experience rather than watching through a screen.

The legendary metal band's ongoing ‘Run For Your Lives’ tour kicked off in Budapest, Hungary, on May 27. The tour includes stops in cities like Copenhagen, Stockholm, Birmingham, Manchester, and London. Iron Maiden fans can still find tickets for certain shows, making this an unmissable chance to experience the band live.

A Call to Experience the Moment

Before the tour began, Iron Maiden’s manager, Ron Smallwood, made a heartfelt plea to fans, asking them to significantly limit the use of their phone cameras during the gigs. In a post titled “Put Away Your Phones and Get Ready to Run For Your Lives!”, Smallwood encouraged everyone to live “in the moment” rather than viewing the show through their phone screens.

Smallwood explained that the band wants fans to experience the concerts just like they did when many of these classic songs were first played live in the 80s. This nostalgia-driven approach is all about bringing back the raw energy and connection of those early performances.

"It is so much better when they can see you unencumbered and that drives them on without that distraction. For the selfish few that didn’t and just had to keep videoing… I wish you nothing but a very sore arm!"

— Ron Smallwood, Iron Maiden manager

Fan Response and Manager’s Gratitude

Following the Budapest gig, Smallwood shared an Instagram message thanking fans who respected the request to keep their phones down. He praised those who embraced the show “the way it’s meant to be experienced – in the room with us,” noting it gave a major boost to the band’s performance.

While a handful of fans continued filming, Smallwood hopes the majority, especially those near the sound desk at floor level, will maintain this respectful behavior in upcoming shows, including Prague and beyond.

“By all means take the odd quick pic as a memento of a great night, but otherwise please keep your phone in your pocket.”

A Milestone 50th Anniversary Tour

This worldwide tour celebrates Iron Maiden’s 50th anniversary. The band is performing a special setlist that features songs exclusively from their first nine studio albums. Frontman Bruce Dickinson teased that they would be “doing stuff we’ve never, ever done before,” promising fans a unique live experience.

The tour also introduces their new drummer, Simon Dawson, who has stepped in following the retirement of longtime drummer Nicko McBrain. McBrain bowed out after suffering a minor stroke in 2023, which left him partially paralyzed on his right side from the shoulder down.

New “Unrestricted” Documentary and More Exciting Projects

Iron Maiden has announced the release of an “unrestricted” documentary film celebrating their 50 years as a band. This upcoming film will feature the late Paul Di’Anno’s final interview, rare archival footage, new animated scenes starring the band’s iconic mascot Eddie, and appearances from notable admirers including actor Javier Bardem, Metallica’s Lars Ulrich, and KISS’s Gene Simmons.

Bruce Dickinson’s Creative Ventures

Frontman Bruce Dickinson is also keeping busy outside of the band. Recently, he announced a graphic novel created with soil from the grave of poet William Blake. Additionally, Dickinson reflected on the challenges of performing songs from the band’s early era with Paul Di’Anno, mentioning certain tracks he can no longer sing.

Iron Maiden’s Manager Shares a Strong Message to Fans Filming at Shows

Iron Maiden’s manager Ron Smallwood has been very clear about his feelings regarding fans filming during concerts. He believes the best way to enjoy a live show is to be fully present, soaking in the atmosphere and energy rather than being distracted by screens.

The tour is a major celebration of Iron Maiden’s incredible career, and the band hopes fans will respect the live experience for everyone’s benefit.

Do you think fans should put their phones away and focus more on live concerts, or is filming a natural part of today’s show experience? Let us know your thoughts!

Frequently Asked Questions

• What’s Iron Maiden’s stance on fans filming concerts?
  Their manager encourages fans to minimize phone use to enjoy the show fully and to avoid distracting the band.
• Who is Iron Maiden's new drummer on the 50th anniversary tour?
  Simon Dawson has stepped in following Nicko McBrain’s retirement due to health reasons.
• What’s unique about the ‘Run For Your Lives’ tour setlist?
  The band plays only songs from their first nine studio albums, bringing a nostalgic vibe to the tour.
• Will there be new Iron Maiden documentary content?
  Yes, an unrestricted documentary featuring rare footage, interviews, and animation will be released later this year.
• What other creative projects is Bruce Dickinson involved with?
  Dickinson announced a graphic novel made with soil from William Blake’s grave and discussed his experiences singing early era songs.

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