“They’re 16 bars, and that’s it. There’s no extended solos”: Adrian Smith on why making music outside of Iron Maiden lets him stretch his soloing wings

Adrian Smith and Richie Kotzen, shot for Guitarist magazine .

Adrian Smith says his work alongside Richie Kotzen is more freeing than life in Iron Maiden, as he has more room to express himself.

The Jackson signature artist joined Maiden in 1980, five years into their existence, and has remained with them ever since, save for a spell away during the 1990s when he was in the running to join Def Leppard. During that time, he's proved an invaluable figure.