Smith/Kotzen to be joined by special guest Bruce Dickinson for performance

Iron Maiden’s Adrian Smith and Richie Kotzen recently performed a live show in London, where they were joined by a surprise guest, Bruce Dickinson, for a rendition of the classic track, Wasted Years. This performance was a highlight of their show, showcasing the collaborative energy between the two guitarists.

Adrian Smith, known for his work with Iron Maiden, teamed up with Richie Kotzen to form a dynamic duo that goes beyond the confines of the iconic heavy metal band. Their partnership has yielded two studio albums, the latest being Black Light / White Noise, which showcases their shared passion for blues music.

During their London performance, Adrian Smith brought Bruce Dickinson on stage, much to the delight of the audience. The trio delivered a powerhouse performance of Wasted Years, a song penned by Smith himself. Dickinson’s presence added an extra layer of excitement to the performance, highlighting the camaraderie between the musicians.

The track, inspired by Smith’s acquisition of a Roland guitar synthesizer, has been a staple in the Smith/Kotzen repertoire. However, this was the first time that Dickinson joined them on stage, injecting his unique energy into the performance. Smith, known for his loyalty to Jackson guitars, introduced Dickinson as “the one and only, Mr. Bruce Dickinson,” setting the stage for an unforgettable collaboration.

In addition to the stellar guitar work of Smith and Kotzen, bassist Julia Lage played a crucial role in anchoring the performance, flawlessly handling Steve Harris’s iconic bass lines. The chemistry between the musicians was palpable, and they effortlessly delivered a flawless rendition of the classic song.

Each member of Iron Maiden recently received a new Fender signature model, with Smith choosing to stick with his Jackson guitars, a testament to his unwavering loyalty to the brand. Grover Jackson played a pivotal role in convincing Smith to trade his Les Pauls for Super Strats, a decision that has clearly paid off in terms of both sound and performance.

Richie Kotzen’s acclaimed signature Strat, previously only available in Japan, was recently launched worldwide, marking a significant milestone in his career. The collaboration between Smith and Kotzen continues to evolve, showcasing their musical prowess and shared love for the blues.

The London performance was a testament to the enduring legacy of Iron Maiden and the individual talents of Adrian Smith and Richie Kotzen. With Bruce Dickinson’s surprise appearance adding an extra layer of excitement, the show was a memorable experience for fans and musicians alike. The performance of Wasted Years was a standout moment, showcasing the power of collaboration and the timeless appeal of classic rock music.