Iron Maiden announces more details of 2025 'Run For Your Lives' world tour

They have achieved plenty of things, such as being commemorated on British stamps.

Still, they are not done. British heavy metal icons Iron Maiden have unveiled their "Run For Your Lives" world tour, set to commence in May 2025 in Budapest, Hungary. This tour marks the band's 50th anniversary, celebrating their formation by bassist Steve Harris in 1975. In a recent video message, lead vocalist Bruce Dickinson expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming tour, highlighting its unique setlist and elaborate production.

He promised, "We’re gonna be doing stuff we’ve never, ever done before."

He mentioned that the tour is largely sold out, indicating the sustained popularity and influence of the band. Dickinson also noted that the tour will extend into 2026 to reach additional regions and have a "setlist for the ages. The "Run For Your Lives" tour will feature a special setlist focusing on Iron Maiden's first nine studio albums, from their 1980 self-titled debut to 1992's Fear of the Dark.

Why Iron Maiden will win big by looking back

This selection of older songs makes sense from a business perspective, and promises a nostalgic experience for long-time fans, with performances of tracks that have not been featured live in many years. That being said, things will be a little different. Iron Maiden's current lineup includes founding member Steve Harris on bass, along with Dave Murray, Adrian Smith, and Janick Gers on guitars, Bruce Dickinson on vocals, and Nicko McBrain on drums.

However, recent reports indicate that McBrain has announced his retirement from touring after 42 years with the band, following health challenges. Simon Dawson is stepping up to the kit in his place. At the most, then, one might irresponsibly speculate that McBrain could make 1 or 2 surprise appearances...but that might be improbable, if not impossible, purely from a medical health perspective.

Sustained success will be strengthened by the tour

Over their five-decade career, Iron Maiden has achieved significant milestones, including over 100 million album sales worldwide and nearly 2,500 live performances. They have been honored with numerous awards, such as the Ivor Novello Award for international achievement in 2002. The "Run For Your Lives" tour is scheduled to visit various countries across Europe, with dates announced through July 2025 in Germany.

The tour will also include performances in the UK and Ireland, with stops in cities like Glasgow, Manchester, Birmingham, Dublin, and London. Special guests for the tour include American rock band Halestorm and Swedish metal band Avatar, who will join Iron Maiden on different legs of the tour.

Tickets for the tour have been in high demand, with many shows already sold out. Fans who have secured tickets can anticipate a "once-in-a-lifetime" live experience, as described by Dickinson, featuring a setlist for the ages and a spectacular new show. As Iron Maiden embarks on this milestone tour, they continue their legacy as one of the most influential bands in heavy metal history.

Their commitment to delivering dynamic live performances and connecting with audiences worldwide remains unwavering, even as they adapt to lineup changes and the evolving music landscape.