The band were flying into Tokyo from Seoul, South Korea following a show there; on approaching Narita Airport in Tokyo, Ed Force One was advised to reroute to Nagoya, as the earthquake/tsunami had just become apparent. The band stayed the night in Nagoya and left the following day.
In an effort to help the battered country at the time, Maiden announced that they would donate the proceeds from sales of the Japanese event shirt available from the band’s official shop (i.e. the shirt without tour dates on) to a charity assisting victims of the earthquake. The band did the same with the stock of event shirts in Tokyo, which were due to be sold onsite at the Tokyo venue (i.e. the shirt with tour dates on).
Now, the band has announced the results of their campaign.
“The terrific support from our fans has resulted in over £36,000 [approximately $57,000 US] being raised in proceeds from the sales of the Japanese event shirt through the Iron Maiden shop and a retail version of the shirt which was sold in the USA,” Maiden announced in a statement. “The band have channeled all their profits and royalties into the fund, which has been donated to the Japanese Red Cross charity.”
“We’d like to thank everyone who took part in this initiative in support of our fellow Maiden fans in Japan and the many others affected by the tsunami.”
Immediately following the spring weather damage, bassist Steve Harris posted a message of support to fans in Japan and all who have been affected by the natural disasters.
"We are extremely saddened by the calamitous events of the last day or so which led to the cancellation or our two shows in Tokyo,” wrote Harris. “Our deepest sympathies go out to everyone affected by this disaster -- our fans in Japan, the people of Japan and those in many other places suffering from the Tsunami. We are also aware that a number of fans flew into Tokyo from various parts of the world to see a Maiden show there and we hope you guys are safe and sound. We have had a long relationship with this wonderful country and have always been made to feel most welcome - this would have been something like our 16th tour. Our sincerest condolences to all those who have suffered and to the families and friends of those who tragically lost their lives."
If you would like to assist the Japanese Red Cross in their relief efforts, you can donate to them directly here.
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