Iron Maiden’s long-time manager Rod Smallwood has taken aim at fans who ignore the band’s request not to film their concerts, saying he hopes those who do “get nothing but a sore arm.”

The outspoken comment came in response to a growing trend of concertgoers recording entire segments of shows on their phones, often blocking the view of fellow fans and distracting from the live experience. Smallwood, who has managed Iron Maiden since 1979, made it clear the band has no time for those who disregard their wishes and treat gigs like personal film shoots.

Iron Maiden’s Clear Message: Live in the Moment
For years, Iron Maiden have encouraged fans to be fully present during their shows, preferring the roar of the crowd and the raw atmosphere of a live metal gig over a sea of glowing screens. The band’s iconic frontman Bruce Dickinson has even been known to call out fans mid-performance for filming instead of enjoying the moment.

Now, Smallwood has echoed those sentiments with a blunt message for mobile-happy gig-goers. “If you’re filming with your arms in the air for the whole show, you’re ruining it for the people behind you,” he said. “You’re not in the moment. You're not watching the band. You're not singing. You're not even really there.”

He added, “I hope your arm gets sore. I hope you miss half the set. And I hope you realise what a better time you’d have had just watching the bloody show.”

Fans Divided Over Filming Ban
The comments have sparked debate among Iron Maiden’s loyal fanbase. While many support the band’s stance — applauding the desire to maintain an immersive, shared experience — others argue that taking the occasional video or photo helps capture memories, particularly for fans who may never see the group again.

However, there’s a big difference between a quick snapshot and holding up a phone for half the night, something Smallwood and the band view as disruptive, not only to the atmosphere but to the connection between artist and audience.

Iron Maiden are far from alone in taking a stand. Artists such as Jack White, Alicia Keys and Bob Dylan have famously banned mobile phones from their gigs entirely, using special pouches to lock devices away until after the show. Maiden haven’t gone that far — yet — but Smallwood’s comments suggest their patience is wearing thin.

The Heart of Heavy Metal Shows
Iron Maiden concerts are known for their theatricality, energy and engagement with the crowd. From the giant Eddie mascots to the pyrotechnics and stagecraft, the band puts on a show designed to be experienced live — not through a screen.

At the core of their appeal is the unspoken contract between band and fans: to share something unrepeatable and visceral. That’s what Smallwood is so keen to protect. “We give it everything on stage,” he said. “All we ask is that fans do the same from the other side of the barrier.”

As Iron Maiden continue their The Future Past tour, with dates across Europe and North America, the message is clear — come for the music, not the memories you’ll filter later.

An Ongoing Debate in the Digital Age
The discussion around filming at gigs is part of a broader conversation about how technology shapes live experiences. While phones can connect people, they can also distance them from what’s happening right in front of them.

Iron Maiden’s stance may seem harsh to some, but it reflects a desire to protect the purity of the live moment. For a band that’s built its legacy on epic, full-throttle performances, that commitment to the here-and-now matters more than ever.

So next time you’re at a Maiden gig, maybe leave the phone in your pocket — and raise your fist instead.