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Clive was just amazing on NOTB. I was worried when I heard that IM were getting a new drummer. When I first heard Where Eagles Dare, I knew everything was going to be just fine! Love both Clive and Nicko!!!
I don't know why Clive was asked to leave the band in 1982 on the tour in the United States. Ive heard that the band said he was partying hard and not keeping up live. Ive heard that Clive said he wasn't partying any harder than anyone else in the band and he was fine I don't know I wasn't there. Clive also said that Nicko was a fan of the band and used to be Eddie on stage. Clives Dad passed away on that tour in the United Stated and he had to return to England for the funeral. Nicko filled in as drummer and when Clive got back to the band on tour he was asked to leave. I don't know what the story is only they do. I love both Clive and Nicko. I will say I don't think they would have ever been where they are now without the first 3 albums being so strong, especially Number of The Beast. A lot of that is due to Clive Burrs drumming. Just my opinion.
For me Clive was the best Drummer. Much more powerfull and ass kicking beats. Nickos tech is different. Not bad and today the best choice for Maiden for shure. But Clive sounded more aggressive and straight forward.
Clive is simply a pure and natural drummer! His style cannot be replicated. Best drummer they've ever had. It's like Bon Scott and Brian Johnson. Bon was the original and most unique thing about AC/DC...same with Clive's contribution to IM's drums.
Nicko is a great drummer with great technique, but Clive just had such flow, and an excitement that lifted the whole band. I think the grooves that Clive and Steve have on the Killers album are some of the best in the whole of hard rock/heavy metal.
Nicko had stated that Maiden had him on a retainer during the Beast U.S tour because of problems with Clive. There is a bootleg called Night of the Living Dead on TH-cam of Maiden playing in New York in 1982. This was near the end of Maidens U.S tour. Clive’s drumming is phenomenal on it. So it is curious when it was said that they were having problems with his drumming on that tour. It is only one gig though
@@AaronRodgers12Pack Clive Burr help write 3 songs in 3 years yet Mcbrain only help write 2 songs in 40 years. Well Steve Harris and Clive Burr always fought. Thunderstick was great with Sampson.
I loved Clive Burr... His unique drumming gave Maiden a very unique sound... I saw them with him on the beast tour in '82... It changed my musical life..
To me Clive was like their Cliff Burton. Run to the Hills is one hell of an example. Nicko is a fantastic drummer also, more technical, but also (for obvious reasons) more experienced.
@ Not gonna argue about drums, 'cause I don't play them. I was thinking more in the creation of the music, instead of the drum skill. Run to the Hills drums are symbolic from the beginning to the end. Thanks for sharing !
@ absolutely correct! Run to the hills is simple fills using the highest to lowest toms. He does the same exact fill every single time. If you listen to Nicko songs, he continually changes them up and adds in a lot of variety.
I completely disagree with the entire premise. First of all, no drummer is "better' than another. People can most certainly have preferences, but both Clive and Nicko brought very unique and amazing skills to the table. They had completely different grooves, feel, time and pocket! IF, Nicko is the perfect drummers, why don't any of the songs that Nicko plays from the first three albums never feel correct? Songs like "Wrathchild", "22 Acacia Ave.", "The Prisoner", and others don't remotely have that special and unique feel and groove that Clive Burr brought to the table. His punk flare was exceptional and his cobra like right hand has never duplicated. Clive Burr was a monster player. Nicko is also a huge player! His power and brilliant right foot took Maiden to a completely different place. But not BETTER one. LOVE them both and respect them both.
Steve Harris gave Nicko freedom on the prior albums that Clive was on. I saw an interview were Steve specifically says that. However, as Maiden changed musically guitar and style wise, Steve felt the need for a more versatile drummer. I saw interviews of this as well. Clive is awesome no doubt. Just not as versatile as Nicko
@@cjones3093 I don't believe that is true. Listen to Nicko's playing on the Pat Travers masterpiece "Putting It Straight". That is some amazing drumming. They are just very , VERY different drummers. My point is..love them both for who they are.
Funny, IMHO, the versions of 22 Acacia Avenue and Phantom of the Opera, played by Nicko on side 4 of Live After Death, are immensely superior than the original ones. I mean, 10.000x better, to say the least.
Just one thing that hasn't been discussed here is Clive Burr's struggle with 'MS', seriously effecting his drum playing ability. He didn't say anything to begin with, but had no choice in the end as he was missing his queues and rhythm of the songs. This also made him appear to have a drug and alcohol problem which was far from the truth. I believe he eventully told everyone in a meeting and all were devistateted at the news. They agreed to carry on until it became too noticable and eventually Clive made the decission fo stand down. Clive passed away from the disease on 12 March 2013. "Up The Irons!!!!" RIP Clive Burr.
Amazing how so many talented musicians were found from within such a small area of East London, not just in the current line up but also past members especially Burr (and also Di'Anno and Stratton.)
Since I was introduced to Maiden from the very beginning, even prior to the release of the first album, I consider Clive “my guy”. Of course, I’m from the States so that was 1980.
Clives live work on Phantom of the Opera is my measuring stick. With Clive, the song has balls. With Nicko, it's slower and doesn't kick you in the head.
Clive is my favorite by a long shot. Nicko have a couple great moments, but Clive’s run was untouchable. Drifter, Innocent Exile, Murders in the Rue Morgue, The Number of the beast, run to the hills, every drum section on his era songs were amazing.
Where Eagles Dare, Revelations, Die with your boots on, Flight of the Icarus, The Trooper just to name a few. And that's just one of several great albums.
Clive Burr by a country mile. Much more energy, aggression and precision in his playing. Maiden just sound like they're misfiring without him. One change too many in my book. Would love to know more about him if you want to make a feature on him.
Bruce Dickinson reckons Clive Burr was the best drummer. He says, "That's not taking anything away from Nicko but Clive had an incredible feel and you can't learn that. I only regret he wasn't given enough time to sort himself out."
Nicko deserves a lot of credit but Clive had a flair and depth to his drumming, proven, among many other places, on The Prisoner. Clive wins it for me.
You see I have a slight preference for Clive even though recognising Nikos brilliance and importantance to the band. Clive had more swing and was a genius at what he did. Beast wouldn't have been anywhere near as good without Clive's input. Niko is a more straight down the line drummer, a very powerful drummer with exceptional technical ability and even though I don't think Clive could have matched that power and precision so important to the later eighties albums I also don't think Niko could have done what Clive achieved on Beast.
Nicko is incredible, of course, but there really was something that little bit special about Clive. The Beast Over Hammersmith and, even more so, the 1982 Reading Festival recordings are testament to this...IMHO. Up The Irons!! 🤘
For me it is Clive Burr. First, his cymbal hits sound more clearer than Nikko's. Not sure if it is recording that makes it sound "muddy" but live he is a awesome drummer and sounds great live. Clive to me was more of a passion drummer while Nikko is more of a technical drummer. Both are great but sometimes I miss the Clive Burr sound. For a great technical drummer watch any of Neil Peart's solo's. Just my opinion though, still love them since 1982.
Nicko is my favourite drummer. His style suits the band perfectly. From his sooty show appearance, listen with Nicko, his stories and interviews the man is totally awesome.
Based on the number of comments (votes) Clive (RIP) wins by miles & he’s my favourite too. I try to imagine him playing on every album from Piece of Mind onwards. He should never have been sacked! Such a loss! Whenever I play the first 3 albums, it’s his impeccable drumming that’ll never be copied or beaten. Clive Burr will always be Iron Maiden’s BEST ever drummer! He was so tight, energetic, unique & played the song, not just the drums. His passion & playing has never been achieved since he was sacked. Why? I hope there are unreleased recordings or demos of Clive still to be released of Piece of Mind sessions or demos. PLEASE! 🥁
Clive > Nicko, and this takes nothing away from Nicko, because he is absolutely phenomenal, but Clive truly had the groove, drive and power!!! Even Steve himself has said that Clive was the best drummer he's ever worked with!
Nicko is a fantastic player, but any song he and Clive both played, feels better with Clive... That right hand he had on the hats is almost impossible to imitate, and a song like Hallowed Be Thy Name illustrates the difference perfectly
I absolutely adore Nicko, but Clive is my favorite because he had so much originality and gave every song a different and appropriate feeling. Thanks for the video! 👍
My introduction to Iron Maiden was Number of the Beast so I am definitely biased toward Clive Burr and Bruce Dickinson. Nicko has certainly grown on me, but my vote is still with Clive RIP. Keep up these great videos on Maiden!
I have always consider Nicko to be the best drummer! He's one of my greatest influences as a drummer. But.. Burr was absolutely genius behind the kit.. he's done perfect job in the 3 albums!
It seemed Clive who was already phenomenol was just getting better. Maybe he'd plateaued but we'll never know. Steve's body language when talking of Clive not sorting himself out is definitely hiding something
They've always had fantastic drummers.. Doug Sampson was and still is a beast behind the kit. Even at 64 he doesn't miss a beat. Clive for me was the best with his Bonham style. Nicko is right for them but he doesn't play the old songs the same way those guys could
There's a certain recording floating around YT listed as being performed at the BBC Studio on November 14th, 1979. According to the stated dates involving the shift in members this was very shortly before Doug left, and it's easily my favorite "Paul era" Maiden production to listen to. Comparisons to drummers from other bands aside, strongly agree on Nicko's position relating to his predecessors.
I went to an antique shop today and picked up Pat Travers' live lp from 1979 (with "Boom! Boom! Out go the Lights" on it.) I was sitting here listening to it and got to looking up the history of Pat Travers and found out Nicko used to play for him.
I met them at backstage and we saw all set down and I never laughed so hard in my life we had a good time I didn't get their autographs I didn't sleep with nobody it was just people having fun they were really good people got to say that and we had fun
I love Nicko as a drummer and as a person. I'm glad they found him and brought him in. He did the drums on Where Eagles Dare with a single bass pedal because he thought dual pedals/double bass drums was "undrummerish".
Nicko is technically more gifted than the others, but based on pure talent and feel, Clive is the best they ever had. Such a shame it didnt work out for Clive long term but he very fact the band did fund raisers for him in the latter part of his life shows how much Clive meant to Maiden. RIP Clive
Sometimes its about more than technical ability. Not to take anything away from nikko. Your drummer has to be able to play of course but the best guy for the band is the consistent, reliable guy that turns up sober to gigs and a huge bonus is if he can act as a buffer between more hostile members... Although that's Bruce in mission from arry.
Bruce wasn’t the buffer, he went in to that with the full intent of winding Nicko up again after things had calmed down a bit 😂 that’s why he recorded it 😂 “What happens if the light truss is about to fall on you?” “Then someone better pull me out the way or else I’m dead!”
2013 in Helsinki i met Nicko just randomly walking alone in the streets. I was only turning 15 so i was very shy but got an autograph. He was super chill guy. Just said "see you tonight". One of the best days of my life
Nicko is most definitely the most technical drummer they've ever had. I love Nicko, but in my opinion as a fellow drummer, Clive is without a doubt my favorite!! R.I.P CLIVE BURR. UP THE IRONS
I always find it amazing that Iron Maiden managed to find the perfect people for this band. Nicko McBrain has just the perfect style that Iron Maiden needed. Nothing more and nothing less. Truly amazing.
One time I was at the South Florida Fair looking at the puppies and kittens that were up for adoption and I walked past this guy I thought I knew, so I said, “Hey!” and waved. He stopped and looked at me and that’s when I realized who he was, so I blurted, “NIKO MCBRAIN?!!” He smiled and said something polite… I can’t even remember because I was so shocked. Lol. I apologized and explained I thought he was someone I knew, like an former guitar teacher or something. He was super cool and nice about it which made me feel a lot less awkward, haha.
Lots of original fans still class Clive Burr as their best drummer. Each to their own. He definitely earned that respect. Nicko wasn't just the natural replacement though, he was the natural progression. And who knows what all those Sooty Show fans would be listening to if it wasn't for Nicko?!!
To me, Nicko is not 'the best' the band has had. Well, I do not like to use terms like 'best' since it is way too arbitrary. Personal prefence, I do have. I got into Maiden around 1986 and bought my first album in 1988 and within a few months I had all their albums up until that point. When it comes to drums, Clive Burr is the man for me. Sure, Nicko is more technical and steady but overall just...slower with less swing. I prefer Clive because he has more groove. Just check out live versions of Phantom of the Opera Burr versus McBrain and you'll feel the difference. Or could you imagine McBrain playing something like Gangland from NotB? Not really, since it's just not his vibe. Also Clive gave the band a lot more speed/energy. I mean, Purgatory anyone? Don't get me wrong. I love Nicko! Especially his work 1983-1988 but I'll always prefer Clive
I loved Clive Burr. I always wished he would have had 1 more album with them..his drumming on beast was so awesome and what I thought made Maiden unique. Perhaps it was because I first saw them on the beast tour in '82 with Clive... I was mezmerized during that show with Iron Maiden. Clive holds a special place in my heart. Nicko is amazing and turned out to be the perfect match for them. His 1st album opened with where Eagles dare. That intro. What a drumming statement...not to mention Nicko is a single kick drumner similar to the might John Bonham.. his single kick is amazing on many tracks. Not to mention he seems like a super cool dude... Just a great guy.
Clive was an amazing drummer no doubt about it but Nicko is the perfect maiden drummer 100% 🤘 His ability, style of playing and his charisma are off the charts. Nicko Rules!
Clive was kicked out of the band long before he had MS. He was kicked out over personality clashes with Steve Harris . MS came along many years latter.
Metal and music owes a lot to iron Maiden and Nicko. My proof is "Piece of Mind". That album is light years ahead of the production of most 80's albums, especially metal. Thanks!
Clive Burr is way better imo. He had a lot more variety and some great drum parts, the songs were far more unique, Nickos kinda done the same thing for the past 38 years. Clive wrote the run to the hills intro.
Love Nicko but I think Clive was their best. Nicko is very much a rhythmic drummer with awesome fills. Meaning he focuses on playing a steady but powerful backbeat. Clive however seemed to do more arrangements with his beats that were very unique. Some of the stuff on the Number of the Beast would have been played a little different with Nicko, I believe a little simpler.
I dunno man Clive Burr was pretty awesome. That intro to Gangland is one of the best drum fills/intros I ever heard. I don’t know if Nicko could play that. I mean given it’s never been played live and is considered filler by Steve he’ll never have to worry about playing it but still he would not have thought of that drum fill. Still he’s an awesome drummer nonetheless but I liked Clive a bit more.
@@Tomba6556 It’s a cool intro certainly but the Gangland intro is much harder to play as a drummer. Without Clive Gangland never would’ve been written.
I was also thinking about Gangland when Clive Burr was mentioned. Come to think of it, Invaders doesn't come far behind. If you listen to the drums, song might be missing the Gangland intro fill, but otherwise it's more complex. I lost count on how many different drum parts it has and most of them are pretty fast. Verse drums sound actually bit alike. Nicko does play pretty tight though, but the joined the band when songs started slowing down. There hasn't been anything like Purgatory since, though some bits here and there might come close. Bit close at the end of Don't Look To The Eyes Of A Stranger actually has bit similar style, but sounds funny for some reason: th-cam.com/video/pFHD28p-yDw/w-d-xo.html Clive sounds bit like a jazz drummer. Gangland just enforces that even more.
@@infernicide666 you are out of your mind, gangland is a simple groove played fast with triplet drum fills in between, but it´s quite easy to play. Where eagles dare, it´s more complex with a better arrangement, I mean the intro and the song itself, because has some unique thing going on between the kick and ride with the triple feel. I know all of that because I play drums. I really like Clive drumming, probably also more than Nicko drumming but comparing those 2 songs, it´s not a good example of clive skills, because in the end, where eagles dare it´s probably best showcase of nicko abilities.
@@NunoFiliper I can’t tell if he’s playing those triplets on the kick drum or the toms though. Triplets have never been my strong suit though lol. I agree Where Eagles Dare is pretty hard to play as well. It sounds easy but it’s actually more involved than it might appear at first. I saw Nicko play it and it turns out I was playing it wrong all along.
Always liked his playing on POM-7th but Clive burr will always be tops. Can’t beat those 1st 3 albums imo 🤘😎 Nikko always seemed to be a lil “too ahead of the song”
What was wrong with Clive Burr? Why do you discount his contribution & influence? He played on Iron Maiden's biggest album , for the record. So I strongly disagree with this article & this site & it doesn't seem open to debate. Nicko is great but Clive certainly made his mark on their first 3 albums RIP
Clive was perfect for the 3 first records. Fast, very solid and quite straightforward. But if Maidens sound were going to evolve they needed a more versatile drummer. Like Nicko. Nicko is perhaps not as steady as Clive, but Nicko is technically superior. Clive could never have played Where Eagles Dare, Caught Somewhere In Time or Powerslave (just to name a few) the way Nicko does. Maiden needed Nicko to evolve the way they wrote songs. Rhythmically Nicko opened up so many doors.
@@FadirDungeon.... Yea, I don't mind how he plays running free but, Wratchild and run to the hills, isn't great. Clive had some serious speed in his wrists for those high-hats.
Sorry, but Clive Burr was the best and I don’t say that lightly. I am a massive Nicko fan in that I have a replica kit but Clive had groove, feel, and a swing that Nicko hasn’t got.
The question is whether there can be any better drumming in Iron Maiden. I loved them being teenager, but after growing up I noticed the same pattern over and over and over... they release the same album each time, and being a drummer there is nothing special, just giving the tempo
I think if you only look at the last albums, most noticeably the last two, Nicko is the best. He really developed the feel and groove he was lacking on his earlier work. If he had today's skill combined with his' and the band's hunger from the 80s, there would be no discussion. The very best however is when Nicko plays Clive's songs, combining his technical side with Clive's compositions. Magic.
*Who is your favourite Iron Maiden drummer?*
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Either Ron or Clive
Thank you for making this clip. Clive Burr was my favorite drummer. You could find creativity, emotion and power in Clive Burr’s drumming.
Clive.
Nicko
clive and is not even close.
I really like Clive, his drumming on Beast Over Hammersmith is just awesome!
aggressive and tight!
His feel was top notch, too. Smooth as silk.
Clive was just amazing on NOTB. I was worried when I heard that IM were getting a new drummer. When I first heard Where Eagles Dare, I knew everything was going to be just fine! Love both Clive and Nicko!!!
Love Nico but I love the feel that Clive brought to the table. He's my faves.
Nicko’s amazing, and unique, and plays with heart & feel - not like a soulless machine. Certainly one of the greatest ever.
I don't know why Clive was asked to leave the band in 1982 on the tour in the United States. Ive heard that the band said he was partying hard and not keeping up live. Ive heard that Clive said he wasn't partying any harder than anyone else in the band and he was fine I don't know I wasn't there. Clive also said that Nicko was a fan of the band and used to be Eddie on stage. Clives Dad passed away on that tour in the United Stated and he had to return to England for the funeral. Nicko filled in as drummer and when Clive got back to the band on tour he was asked to leave. I don't know what the story is only they do. I love both Clive and Nicko. I will say I don't think they would have ever been where they are now without the first 3 albums being so strong, especially Number of The Beast. A lot of that is due to Clive Burrs drumming. Just my opinion.
Nicko and Clive have different styles but both amazing drummers.
For me Clive was the best Drummer. Much more powerfull and ass kicking beats. Nickos tech is different. Not bad and today the best choice for Maiden for shure. But Clive sounded more aggressive and straight forward.
I agree
Will be amazing to hear Clive drumming on Brave New World era for example. Than we can compare. For now on ,they both amazing.
Clive is simply a pure and natural drummer! His style cannot be replicated. Best drummer they've ever had. It's like Bon Scott and Brian Johnson. Bon was the original and most unique thing about AC/DC...same with Clive's contribution to IM's drums.
The most unique thing about AC/DC were the Young brothers guitars.
I don't know if he's the "best", but I like Nicko a lot. He seems like a very nice guy. So yeah, he is my favourite.
Nicko is a great drummer with great technique, but Clive just had such flow, and an excitement that lifted the whole band. I think the grooves that Clive and Steve have on the Killers album are some of the best in the whole of hard rock/heavy metal.
Agreed.
Right said!
Nicko is nowhere near Clive's level
Nicko had stated that Maiden had him on a retainer during the Beast U.S tour because of problems with Clive. There is a bootleg called Night of the Living Dead on TH-cam of Maiden playing in New York in 1982. This was near the end of Maidens U.S tour. Clive’s drumming is phenomenal on it. So it is curious when it was said that they were having problems with his drumming on that tour. It is only one gig though
Clive's drumming has something that makes my heart beat
The perfect Maiden drummer played on their first 3 albums.
Clive Burr. Was awesome.
100% and its not even close. 👍🏻
@@AaronRodgers12Pack Clive Burr help write 3 songs in 3 years yet Mcbrain only help write 2 songs in 40 years. Well Steve Harris and Clive Burr always fought. Thunderstick was great with Sampson.
I loved Clive Burr... His unique drumming gave Maiden a very unique sound... I saw them with him on the beast tour in '82... It changed my musical life..
If he was so perfect why did he get fired? #TeamNicko
To me Clive was like their Cliff Burton. Run to the Hills is one hell of an example.
Nicko is a fantastic drummer also, more technical, but also (for obvious reasons) more experienced.
You said it.
Everybody can play run to the hills like clive, nicko focuses more to the footwork and thats harder
@ Not gonna argue about drums, 'cause I don't play them. I was thinking more in the creation of the music, instead of the drum skill. Run to the Hills drums are symbolic from the beginning to the end.
Thanks for sharing !
"More technical" 😆
@ absolutely correct! Run to the hills is simple fills using the highest to lowest toms. He does the same exact fill every single time. If you listen to Nicko songs, he continually changes them up and adds in a lot of variety.
Clive was perfect
Clive Burr is still one of my favorite drummers.
🤘❤️🇨🇦
I completely disagree with the entire premise. First of all, no drummer is "better' than another. People can most certainly have preferences, but both Clive and Nicko brought very unique and amazing skills to the table. They had completely different grooves, feel, time and pocket!
IF, Nicko is the perfect drummers, why don't any of the songs that Nicko plays from the first three albums never feel correct? Songs like "Wrathchild", "22 Acacia Ave.", "The Prisoner", and others don't remotely have that special and unique feel and groove that Clive Burr brought to the table. His punk flare was exceptional and his cobra like right hand has never duplicated. Clive Burr was a monster player.
Nicko is also a huge player! His power and brilliant right foot took Maiden to a completely different place. But not BETTER one.
LOVE them both and respect them both.
Agree 100%-especially on the old stuff.
Nicko's missing a certain swing.....
He is still a monster.
Steve Harris gave Nicko freedom on the prior albums that Clive was on. I saw an interview were Steve specifically says that. However, as Maiden changed musically guitar and style wise, Steve felt the need for a more versatile drummer. I saw interviews of this as well. Clive is awesome no doubt. Just not as versatile as Nicko
Nicko has no groove - Clive had GROOVE in spades. That's the difference.
@@cjones3093 I don't believe that is true. Listen to Nicko's playing on the Pat Travers masterpiece "Putting It Straight". That is some amazing drumming. They are just very , VERY different drummers. My point is..love them both for who they are.
Funny, IMHO, the versions of 22 Acacia Avenue and Phantom of the Opera, played by Nicko on side 4 of Live After Death, are immensely superior than the original ones. I mean, 10.000x better, to say the least.
Clive was and will always be the best!!!!
RIP
Clive Burr was the best (by far) drummer of Iron Maiden. Nicko is a nice guy full of charisma.
im a drummer. youre tripping
I’m a drummer and you’re not tripping.😆
Clive = Tight and fast. Nicko = Groovie and playful. Both great but I prefer Nicko.
Just one thing that hasn't been discussed here is Clive Burr's struggle with 'MS', seriously effecting his drum playing ability. He didn't say anything to begin with, but had no choice in the end as he was missing his queues and rhythm of the songs. This also made him appear to have a drug and alcohol problem which was far from the truth. I believe he eventully told everyone in a meeting and all were devistateted at the news. They agreed to carry on until it became too noticable and eventually Clive made the decission fo stand down. Clive passed away from the disease on 12 March 2013.
"Up The Irons!!!!" RIP Clive Burr.
Amazing how so many talented musicians were found from within such a small area of East London, not just in the current line up but also past members especially Burr (and also Di'Anno and Stratton.)
Yes. Please do in depths on each drummer! Love your maiden documentaries.
Since I was introduced to Maiden from the very beginning, even prior to the release of the first album, I consider Clive “my guy”. Of course, I’m from the States so that was 1980.
Clives live work on Phantom of the Opera is my measuring stick. With Clive, the song has balls. With Nicko, it's slower and doesn't kick you in the head.
Faster doesn't always mean better. Clive = Speed, Nicko = Groove.
Clive is my favorite by a long shot. Nicko have a couple great moments, but Clive’s run was untouchable.
Drifter, Innocent Exile, Murders in the Rue Morgue, The Number of the beast, run to the hills, every drum section on his era songs were amazing.
Where Eagles Dare, Revelations, Die with your boots on, Flight of the Icarus, The Trooper just to name a few. And that's just one of several great albums.
Clive Burr by a country mile. Much more energy, aggression and precision in his playing. Maiden just sound like they're misfiring without him. One change too many in my book. Would love to know more about him if you want to make a feature on him.
Misfiring. Wow
Bruce Dickinson reckons Clive Burr was the best drummer. He says, "That's not taking anything away from Nicko but Clive had an incredible feel and you can't learn that. I only regret he wasn't given enough time to sort himself out."
Bruce was out of the band when he said. I get the impression he may have been taking some pot shots at the band.
@@damiangrimm1430 Bruce said that in an interview after "Brave New World".
@@Thomas828 No it wasn’t actually. It was in Mick Walls book, which I have. It was written in the edition before Bruce rejoined
Nicko deserves a lot of credit but Clive had a flair and depth to his drumming, proven, among many other places, on The Prisoner. Clive wins it for me.
You see I have a slight preference for Clive even though recognising Nikos brilliance and importantance to the band. Clive had more swing and was a genius at what he did. Beast wouldn't have been anywhere near as good without Clive's input. Niko is a more straight down the line drummer, a very powerful drummer with exceptional technical ability and even though I don't think Clive could have matched that power and precision so important to the later eighties albums I also don't think Niko could have done what Clive achieved on Beast.
Nicko is incredible, of course, but there really was something that little bit special about Clive. The Beast Over Hammersmith and, even more so, the 1982 Reading Festival recordings are testament to this...IMHO. Up The Irons!! 🤘
For me it is Clive Burr. First, his cymbal hits sound more clearer than Nikko's. Not sure if it is recording that makes it sound "muddy" but live he is a awesome drummer and sounds great live. Clive to me was more of a passion drummer while Nikko is more of a technical drummer. Both are great but sometimes I miss the Clive Burr sound. For a great technical drummer watch any of Neil Peart's solo's. Just my opinion though, still love them since 1982.
Nicko is my favourite drummer. His style suits the band perfectly. From his sooty show appearance, listen with Nicko, his stories and interviews the man is totally awesome.
Probably Clive.
Based on the number of comments (votes) Clive (RIP) wins by miles & he’s my favourite too. I try to imagine him playing on every album from Piece of Mind onwards. He should never have been sacked! Such a loss! Whenever I play the first 3 albums, it’s his impeccable drumming that’ll never be copied or beaten. Clive Burr will always be Iron Maiden’s BEST ever drummer! He was so tight, energetic, unique & played the song, not just the drums. His passion & playing has never been achieved since he was sacked. Why? I hope there are unreleased recordings or demos of Clive still to be released of Piece of Mind sessions or demos. PLEASE! 🥁
Clive > Nicko, and this takes nothing away from Nicko, because he is absolutely phenomenal, but Clive truly had the groove, drive and power!!! Even Steve himself has said that Clive was the best drummer he's ever worked with!
I have always preferred the drumming of Clive burr over Nicko
I think Clive brought more to the song
I don't know if he's the best, but he's a beast! Perfect fit for Iron Maiden, that's for sure.
Nicko is a fantastic player, but any song he and Clive both played, feels better with Clive... That right hand he had on the hats is almost impossible to imitate, and a song like Hallowed Be Thy Name illustrates the difference perfectly
Personally I'm team Clive
I absolutely adore Nicko, but Clive is my favorite because he had so much originality and gave every song a different and appropriate feeling. Thanks for the video! 👍
Nice history lesson here. I enjoyed it I only knew Clive and Nico
Nikos the best after seing the rock in reo for the 1st time , i thought his playing was top notch , that DVD will always be a favorite !!
My introduction to Iron Maiden was Number of the Beast so I am definitely biased toward Clive Burr and Bruce Dickinson. Nicko has certainly grown on me, but my vote is still with Clive RIP. Keep up these great videos on Maiden!
I have always consider Nicko to be the best drummer! He's one of my greatest influences as a drummer. But.. Burr was absolutely genius behind the kit.. he's done perfect job in the 3 albums!
Great video once again!!
It seemed Clive who was already phenomenol was just getting better. Maybe he'd plateaued but we'll never know. Steve's body language when talking of Clive not sorting himself out is definitely hiding something
Clive is GOAT 🤘
Nicko was hired as they needed someone good looking in the band! And that's straight from him and proves what a great sense of humour he has.
Nicko is just a freak! Can't imagine anyone handling the drums like he does!
They've always had fantastic drummers.. Doug Sampson was and still is a beast behind the kit. Even at 64 he doesn't miss a beat. Clive for me was the best with his Bonham style. Nicko is right for them but he doesn't play the old songs the same way those guys could
Dude, nicko is way more bonhamish
There's a certain recording floating around YT listed as being performed at the BBC Studio on November 14th, 1979. According to the stated dates involving the shift in members this was very shortly before Doug left, and it's easily my favorite "Paul era" Maiden production to listen to. Comparisons to drummers from other bands aside, strongly agree on Nicko's position relating to his predecessors.
I knew straight away when I saw this video, that 99% of comments would go in favour of Clive...
I went to an antique shop today and picked up Pat Travers' live lp from 1979 (with "Boom! Boom! Out go the Lights" on it.) I was sitting here listening to it and got to looking up the history of Pat Travers and found out Nicko used to play for him.
They pretty much already had that with Clive
I met them at backstage and we saw all set down and I never laughed so hard in my life we had a good time I didn't get their autographs I didn't sleep with nobody it was just people having fun they were really good people got to say that and we had fun
I love Nicko as a drummer and as a person. I'm glad they found him and brought him in. He did the drums on Where Eagles Dare with a single bass pedal because he thought dual pedals/double bass drums was "undrummerish".
Nicko is technically more gifted than the others, but based on pure talent and feel, Clive is the best they ever had. Such a shame it didnt work out for Clive long term but he very fact the band did fund raisers for him in the latter part of his life shows how much Clive meant to Maiden. RIP Clive
Clive Burr was Maiden's best drummer by far.
Sometimes its about more than technical ability. Not to take anything away from nikko. Your drummer has to be able to play of course but the best guy for the band is the consistent, reliable guy that turns up sober to gigs and a huge bonus is if he can act as a buffer between more hostile members... Although that's Bruce in mission from arry.
Bruce wasn’t the buffer, he went in to that with the full intent of winding Nicko up again after things had calmed down a bit 😂 that’s why he recorded it 😂
“What happens if the light truss is about to fall on you?”
“Then someone better pull me out the way or else I’m dead!”
Clive Burr was insanely BA
2013 in Helsinki i met Nicko just randomly walking alone in the streets. I was only turning 15 so i was very shy but got an autograph. He was super chill guy. Just said "see you tonight". One of the best days of my life
Fun fact : Nicko is also the most funny drummer in the business
Nicko is an absolute God on the drums. He makes it look so effortless too. Amazing drummer.
Nicko is most definitely the most technical drummer they've ever had. I love Nicko, but in my opinion as a fellow drummer, Clive is without a doubt my favorite!! R.I.P CLIVE BURR. UP THE IRONS
Agree about Clive; he was the right drummer for Maiden up to that point in their career, but Nicko helped them get to the next level.
I always find it amazing that Iron Maiden managed to find the perfect people for this band. Nicko McBrain has just the perfect style that Iron Maiden needed. Nothing more and nothing less. Truly amazing.
That is probably why they have been around for over 40 years. Steve and Rob Smallwood know how to pick a band.
clive burr was the best
One time I was at the South Florida Fair looking at the puppies and kittens that were up for adoption and I walked past this guy I thought I knew, so I said, “Hey!” and waved. He stopped and looked at me and that’s when I realized who he was, so I blurted, “NIKO MCBRAIN?!!” He smiled and said something polite… I can’t even remember because I was so shocked. Lol. I apologized and explained I thought he was someone I knew, like an former guitar teacher or something. He was super cool and nice about it which made me feel a lot less awkward, haha.
Lots of original fans still class Clive Burr as their best drummer. Each to their own. He definitely earned that respect. Nicko wasn't just the natural replacement though, he was the natural progression. And who knows what all those Sooty Show fans would be listening to if it wasn't for Nicko?!!
Clive was amazing as well. If he stayed he would have worked just as good.
To me, Nicko is not 'the best' the band has had.
Well, I do not like to use terms like 'best' since it is way too arbitrary. Personal prefence, I do have.
I got into Maiden around 1986 and bought my first album in 1988 and within a few months I had all their albums up until that point.
When it comes to drums, Clive Burr is the man for me. Sure, Nicko is more technical and steady but overall just...slower with less swing.
I prefer Clive because he has more groove. Just check out live versions of Phantom of the Opera Burr versus McBrain and you'll feel the difference. Or could you imagine McBrain playing something like Gangland from NotB? Not really, since it's just not his vibe. Also Clive gave the band a lot more speed/energy. I mean, Purgatory anyone?
Don't get me wrong. I love Nicko! Especially his work 1983-1988 but I'll always prefer Clive
I loved Clive Burr. I always wished he would have had 1 more album with them..his drumming on beast was so awesome and what I thought made Maiden unique. Perhaps it was because I first saw them on the beast tour in '82 with Clive... I was mezmerized during that show with Iron Maiden. Clive holds a special place in my heart. Nicko is amazing and turned out to be the perfect match for them. His 1st album opened with where Eagles dare. That intro. What a drumming statement...not to mention Nicko is a single kick drumner similar to the might John Bonham.. his single kick is amazing on many tracks. Not to mention he seems like a super cool dude... Just a great guy.
Clive Burr was THE Iron Maiden drummer.
It is too bad we've never known why he left.
Clive was an amazing drummer no doubt about it but Nicko is the perfect maiden drummer 100% 🤘 His ability, style of playing and his charisma are off the charts. Nicko Rules!
Who played on the high percentage of Iron Maiden hit singles?
Who gave full commitment every world tour, recording sessions with Iron Maiden?
They are both great drummers, there is no doubt
Clive would have still been there if it wasn't for MS!!!! Rest peacefully Clive Burr. Nico is fantastic!!
Clive was kicked out of the band long before he had MS. He was kicked out over personality clashes with Steve Harris . MS came along many years latter.
Metal and music owes a lot to iron Maiden and Nicko. My proof is "Piece of Mind". That album is light years ahead of the production of most 80's albums, especially metal. Thanks!
Clive Burr is way better imo. He had a lot more variety and some great drum parts, the songs were far more unique, Nickos kinda done the same thing for the past 38 years.
Clive wrote the run to the hills intro.
Love Nicko but I think Clive was their best. Nicko is very much a rhythmic drummer with awesome fills. Meaning he focuses on playing a steady but powerful backbeat. Clive however seemed to do more arrangements with his beats that were very unique. Some of the stuff on the Number of the Beast would have been played a little different with Nicko, I believe a little simpler.
I dunno man Clive Burr was pretty awesome. That intro to Gangland is one of the best drum fills/intros I ever heard. I don’t know if Nicko could play that. I mean given it’s never been played live and is considered filler by Steve he’ll never have to worry about playing it but still he would not have thought of that drum fill. Still he’s an awesome drummer nonetheless but I liked Clive a bit more.
Nicko says hi with Where Eagles Dare intro.
@@Tomba6556 It’s a cool intro certainly but the Gangland intro is much harder to play as a drummer. Without Clive Gangland never would’ve been written.
I was also thinking about Gangland when Clive Burr was mentioned.
Come to think of it, Invaders doesn't come far behind. If you listen to the drums, song might be missing the Gangland intro fill, but otherwise it's more complex. I lost count on how many different drum parts it has and most of them are pretty fast. Verse drums sound actually bit alike.
Nicko does play pretty tight though, but the joined the band when songs started slowing down. There hasn't been anything like Purgatory since, though some bits here and there might come close. Bit close at the end of Don't Look To The Eyes Of A Stranger actually has bit similar style, but sounds funny for some reason: th-cam.com/video/pFHD28p-yDw/w-d-xo.html
Clive sounds bit like a jazz drummer. Gangland just enforces that even more.
@@infernicide666 you are out of your mind, gangland is a simple groove played fast with triplet drum fills in between, but it´s quite easy to play. Where eagles dare, it´s more complex with a better arrangement, I mean the intro and the song itself, because has some unique thing going on between the kick and ride with the triple feel. I know all of that because I play drums. I really like Clive drumming, probably also more than Nicko drumming but comparing those 2 songs, it´s not a good example of clive skills, because in the end, where eagles dare it´s probably best showcase of nicko abilities.
@@NunoFiliper I can’t tell if he’s playing those triplets on the kick drum or the toms though. Triplets have never been my strong suit though lol. I agree Where Eagles Dare is pretty hard to play as well. It sounds easy but it’s actually more involved than it might appear at first. I saw Nicko play it and it turns out I was playing it wrong all along.
Always liked his playing on POM-7th but Clive burr will always be tops. Can’t beat those 1st 3 albums imo 🤘😎 Nikko always seemed to be a lil “too ahead of the song”
I think the fact that other drummers would go backstage and watch Nicko in action speaks volumes.
What was wrong with Clive Burr? Why do you discount his contribution & influence? He played on Iron Maiden's biggest album , for the record. So I strongly disagree with this article & this site & it doesn't seem open to debate. Nicko is great but Clive certainly made his mark on their first 3 albums RIP
i never realised what a great drummer david carridine was.. Some people are blessed with all the talent
I saw an evening with Bruce Dickenson & he was talking about Thunderstick.
Clive Burr will still be my favourite
Clive was perfect for the 3 first records. Fast, very solid and quite straightforward. But if Maidens sound were going to evolve they needed a more versatile drummer. Like Nicko. Nicko is perhaps not as steady as Clive, but Nicko is technically superior. Clive could never have played Where Eagles Dare, Caught Somewhere In Time or Powerslave (just to name a few) the way Nicko does. Maiden needed Nicko to evolve the way they wrote songs. Rhythmically Nicko opened up so many doors.
You are absolutely right
Just like Nicko can't play Run to the hills, Wratchild or Running free...
@@chilly6470 I agree he doesn't play Run To The Hills as well. But I like the groove he adds to running free and wrathchild.
@@FadirDungeon.... Yea, I don't mind how he plays running free but, Wratchild and run to the hills, isn't great.
Clive had some serious speed in his wrists for those high-hats.
The best drummer Iron Maiden ever had was: Clive Burr!!! 😈🤘🎸🥁
Let me tell you a true story...Clive Burr was the drummer on the 2 best Iron Maiden albums of all time... End of true story.
You have no idea what your talking about pilgrim. Clive Burr was beyond perfect on The Number of the Beast.
There was nothing wrong with Clive though
Sorry, but Clive Burr was the best and I don’t say that lightly. I am a massive Nicko fan in that I have a replica kit but Clive had groove, feel, and a swing that Nicko hasn’t got.
Erm, every drummer has performed “Iron Maiden”. For mine Clive played that song best.
The question is whether there can be any better drumming in Iron Maiden. I loved them being teenager, but after growing up I noticed the same pattern over and over and over... they release the same album each time, and being a drummer there is nothing special, just giving the tempo
Clive Burr all the way for me. Pity he passed away so young 😔
I think if you only look at the last albums, most noticeably the last two, Nicko is the best. He really developed the feel and groove he was lacking on his earlier work. If he had today's skill combined with his' and the band's hunger from the 80s, there would be no discussion. The very best however is when Nicko plays Clive's songs, combining his technical side with Clive's compositions. Magic.
Clive was the man.
Nicko the fucking octopus . The King of NVBHM drumming. But I love Clive too. They both fit they are time with Maiden.
Clive always.