Iron Maiden Set Prague Ablaze with Ferocious “Killers” Performance on May 31, 2025
On May 31, 2025, Iron Maiden delivered a monumental performance at Prague’s Letňany Airport, marking one of the most unforgettable nights of the “Run For Your Lives” 50th Anniversary World Tour. Fans from across Europe gathered to celebrate five decades of pure heavy metal, and the band gave them everything they came for—and more.
The night opened with the ominous instrumental “The Ides of March,” a perfect buildup before the explosion of “Murders in the Rue Morgue.” From the first scream to the final drumbeat, it was clear the band had come to make a statement, and the crowd of 60,000 responded with roaring approval.
What followed was an early-career showcase—“Wrathchild” and “Killers”—delivered with ferocity. Bruce Dickinson, stepping into songs originally sung by Paul Di’Anno, gave them a new edge, while still honoring their roots. The crowd, many of whom grew up on these tracks, erupted with every note.
“Phantom of the Opera” brought a shift in tempo and complexity, highlighting the band’s signature blend of melody and aggression. The song’s sudden tempo changes and theatrical flair demonstrated how Iron Maiden raised the bar for metal storytelling even from their earliest days.
The band then dug into the heart of their legacy with “The Number of the Beast,” “The Clairvoyant,” and “Powerslave.” Each track showcased their evolution through the 80s—lyrically rich, sonically complex, and universally loved. Prague’s skies lit up with lights and voices for every chorus.
“2 Minutes to Midnight” launched an all-out singalong, followed by the epic “Rime of the Ancient Mariner.” Clocking in at over 13 minutes, the song never dragged—it mesmerized. Bruce’s storytelling, backed by dramatic lighting and tight instrumentation, held the crowd in suspense.
With “Run to the Hills” and “Seventh Son of a Seventh Son,” the night took a turn toward the spiritual and surreal. These tracks captured the full Iron Maiden experience—part historical epic, part progressive journey, and always fueled by thunderous gallops from Steve Harris’s bass.
The core set reached its climax with “The Trooper,” “Hallowed Be Thy Name,” and “Iron Maiden.” These songs are more than setlist staples—they’re rallying cries. The band’s intensity during these moments reminded everyone why they remain legends after all these years.
As always, the encore was introduced by the spine-tingling “Churchill’s Speech,” leading straight into “Aces High.” The song’s fighter jet riffs and sky-piercing vocals sent a surge of adrenaline through the crowd. Bruce, waving a giant Union Jack, was in full command of the moment.
“Fear of the Dark” followed with a haunting, crowd-led intro. As the riff kicked in, the entire audience swayed in unison. It was one of those sacred Maiden moments—where 60,000 voices merge with the band, and the boundaries between stage and crowd completely dissolve.
The evening ended on a reflective yet triumphant note with “Wasted Years.” With lyrics about lost time and learning from the past, it was a fitting close to a show that celebrated both Iron Maiden’s history and their present strength. The crowd left with full hearts and ringing ears.
Onstage visuals and effects were as dramatic as the music. Giant backdrops, LED screens, and the band’s legendary mascot Eddie made appearances in multiple forms—medieval knight, phantom pilot, and skeletal monster—all adding layers of spectacle to an already epic night.
The Prague show also introduced Simon Dawson as the band’s new touring drummer, following Nicko McBrain’s retirement. Dawson rose to the occasion with precision and energy, winning over fans with his respect for Nicko’s style and his own confident execution.
Fans and critics praised the setlist for its deep cuts and balanced selection. The band managed to celebrate all eras of their career while offering surprises and paying tribute to their earliest days—a move that thrilled both longtime followers and newer fans.
Iron Maiden’s Prague performance wasn’t just a concert—it was a celebration of legacy, endurance, and undying spirit. After 50 years, the band continues to prove that heavy metal isn’t just alive—it’s thriving, evolving, and in their hands, completely unstoppable.
