Bruce Dickinson reminisced about a bold comment he made in 1999 while trying to convince Steve Harris to rejoin Iron Maiden, asserting that the band was superior to Metallica. This revelation came during discussions with Harris, who had recently decided to part ways with Blaze Bayley, Dickinson’s replacement for the past five years. The idea of a reunion originated from band manager Rod Smallwood, leading to a meeting at Smallwood’s home where Dickinson aimed to persuade Harris.

During this conversation, Harris expressed skepticism about Dickinson’s desire to return. In response, Dickinson candidly stated, “I want to come back, Steve, because, in the words of my mates, ‘The world needs Iron Maiden,’ and secondly, I think we can make amazing music.”

When asked if he believed Maiden needed him back, Dickinsоn acknоwledged the pоssibility but refrained frоm expressing it, avоiding sоunding bitter. Instead, he fоcused оn the prоspect оf creating a remarkable future fоr the band, asserting, “We will sweep away the past by dоing an amazing future.”

In a daring move to motivate Harris, Dickinson compared Iron Maiden to Metallica, boldly stating, “Of course, we are better than Metallica!” Despite initial skepticism, Dickinson’s confidence started to resonate with others, leading them to consider the validity of his statement.

Dickinson emphasized the importance of having such a confident attitude, drawing parallels with Mick Jagger’s assertiveness in becoming an iconic figure. In 1999, both Dickinson and guitarist Adrian Smith rejoined Iron Maiden, retaining Janick Gers as a member. The reformed sextet went on to release “Brave New World” in 2000, defying expectations by not opting for a greatest hits album but rather delivering a new and highly acclaimed record.

The reunion marked a successful chapter for Iron Maiden, reigniting their creative spark and propelling them back into the spotlight with “Brave New World.” Dickinson’s unwavering confidence and commitment to creating fresh, exceptional music played a pivotal role in rejuvenating the band’s trajectory.