Former Iron Maiden guitarist Dennis Stratton has shared his thoughts on the band’s upcoming induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2026.
Stratton, who played on the band’s self-titled debut album in 1980 and contributed to classics such as “Phantom of the Opera,” “Running Free,” and “Iron Maiden,” will be inducted alongside current and former members including Bruce Dickinson, Steve Harris, Adrian Smith, Dave Murray, Janick Gers, Paul Di’Anno, Blaze Bayley, Nicko McBrain, and Clive Burr.
In a new interview on the Serbian podcast “Rock Talk” with journalist Jadranka Janković Nešić, Stratton expressed genuine excitement while acknowledging the band’s complicated history with the institution.
“Well, absolutely, absolutely over the moon, to be honest.”
He recalled speaking with Steve Harris about the possibility of induction as far back as 2020 during lockdown. Stratton also addressed Bruce Dickinson’s famous 2018 criticism of the Rock Hall, where the singer called it “an utter and complete load of bollocks.” He stated he respects Bruce’s opinion and the band’s stance:
“Yes, I have to respect what Bruce said, and Bruce’s statement, the band are behind him, and I suppose the management are. So, still being part of that lineup for the induction, then I have to go along with it.”
When asked whether he will attend the ceremony this fall, Stratton made it clear the decision is not his alone:
“Again, I have to say that the decision lies with the band and with the management, and whatever decision they make, I will respect that. It’d be absolutely fantastic for me, Nicko and Blaze to accept the award on their behalf, but I don’t know whether or not that will happen… It’s out of our hands, really.”
He added that he would be thrilled to receive a physical award or plaque to show his grandchildren and described the induction as “the icing on the cake” after decades of hard work.
Dennis Stratton’s humble and respectful approach is admirable. Despite only being in the band for a short but influential period, his contributions helped shape Iron Maiden’s early sound. His willingness to defer to the current lineup and management while still expressing personal excitement shows class. The Rock Hall induction, long overdue for many fans, finally puts to rest years of tension and politics surrounding the band’s eligibility.
