Wasted Years. Iron Maiden.

The original version of this by Iron Maiden is fantastic, with that lead guitar riff played an octave higher than I play it here, starting at the 12th fret and descending all the way down the finger board. The bass player plays a slightly different but complimentary scale.
Marvellous.
But I love the fact that with this heavy rock ballad, if you quieten and slow it down like this it reveals a superbly written (poetic even) story song with meaningful passionate lyrics. We have a story of a hard rock musician who simply misses his home and his girl.
Thank you Iron Maiden. I love this song.
And as always, thank you for listening 🙂🎸
Update September 2023, here is a link to my Tutorial for this version of Wasted Years:-
• Wasted Years Tutorial ...

[@ryanmartin5668]

Lifelong Maiden fan here. I clicked on this because I expected a train wreck. What I got was the purest essence of that song I’ve ever heard. You, sir, have my apologies and my respect.

[@acmaiden5236]

Not gonna lie, I did the same... I changed my mind as soon as he started singing

[@ryanmartin5668]

@@acmaiden5236 dude has a tutorial on how to play this version. It’s my new obsession.

[@jacoblloyd3049]

same lolol this was beautiful 😅🥹

[@A.D.D.O.C.D.T]

Look at his wall ,it was always going to be a bullet train 🚄 🤘

[@theycallmehoz]

Couldn't have put it better myself. Beautiful rendition.

[@marcios5269]

"Ain't it funny how it is? You never miss it til' it's gone away" beautiful

[@stuartclifford8795]

And my heart is lying there and will be till my dying day... Yes beautiful words... Thanks for listening and commenting 🙂 🎸

[@Earthangel63]

And it makes me wonder “WHY?”

[@Earthangel63]

Thanks for looking ❤️

[@theMusangPullOut]

After all these years i just realized this song is all about to reflecting yourself.. How philosophical..

[@JonnyBlade]

There is a lot more to Dickinsons lyrics than most people know. One of the best writers in his genre, no doubt.

[@tiagorada]

I have cried only twice while listening to "Wasted Years". One of them watching Iron Maiden live, in the chorus, thousand people singing together. The other one was few seconds Ago. Thank you, man!

[@stuartclifford8795]

❤

[@ripwreckraceway]

@@stuartclifford8795 Amen to that

[@martindavd]

You don’t realize that metal songs can be converted acoustically, until it’s delivered by the right person.

[@lelin70]

A good song is good or even great in all settings🙏🙏🙏

[@erishkigal1]

I love Stuart's voice and the message he carries with his age. Perfect for this song!

[@briantrend7401]

Man this is great thankyou

[@echoesvayne9790]

.... I generally judge a song based on its ability to be transferred to another style and still have an impact

[@KohleKless]

Yeah,this is very cool,Bruce would be proud!!

[@gcopp81]

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN: This man understands the essence of rock 'n roll .

[@dwad3ify]

That’s bc he’s old enough to have been there for it all 🫡

[@a.c.3024]

this might be the best cover of a Maiden song ever.

[@thefitgm335]

Look at how many grown men are shedding tears in these comments (I'm one of them). This hit so hard.

[@stuartclifford8795]

❤

[@Earthangel63]

That’s cause we old people Wasted our Years and Money and now it’s really hitting home ( at 53 )😢

[@Rockett77]

❤

[@ricklivingston3774]

Stopped st :40. I'm at work.

[@scottsparks5214]

I may have got a bit misty listening to this. But I'll never admit it

[@skytrip5273]

The acoustic version with him singing really brings the wisdom out of the song.

[@juniordaddyman]

I can just picture a man that is a widower that lost his soulmate and is playing this song as a reminder to us all to enjoy everyday and not take it for granted😢😢

[@bcelgato2908]

​@@juniordaddymanI agree. I just lost my wife last year after 30 years together. So yeah, don't take people for granted, don't waste time arguing, and appreciate every moment you get to spend together with your soul mate while you can. I miss her more than words can describe, especially during the holidays.

[@kostaskarachalios-jt1wd]

@@bcelgato2908 You broke my heart man. Wish u to find the strength you need.

[@newcastlemusicstudios]

Same thought...

[@audieconrad8995]

Reminds me a little bit of Johnny Cash's version of Hurt...

[@strangelet4588]

As a die hard maiden fan, this interpretation blew all the covers I’ve heard right out of the water. Well done.

[@kaihendriks9075]

same

[@NInjaTunazier]

Yes sir. Well done Stuart!

[@robertbarnes8327]

Same for me too.

[@groundbeef662]

Ive always felt that is a beautiful song and probably overlooked by most non metal and hard rock people as it's maiden, your version shows how delicate and beautiful it is.

[@Raphaelhigginbotham]

Same here

[@mindeloman]

I keep forgetting how old us metal heads are getting. This is a bitter sweet reminder that the music stays young but we get older. As Rob Halford said in Priest's RnR hof speech, "We call ourselves a heavy-metal community that is all-inclusive, no matter what your sexual identity, how you look, the color of your skin, what you believe or don't believe it. Everyone is welcome."

[@marciosouza6290]

So understand Don't waste your time always searching for those wasted years Face up, make your stand Realize you're living in the golden years

[@bigfoot-5150]

Awesome! Turned a metal song into a beautiful haunting melody.😢

[@Patriot-up2td]

I’m 51 now and have been playing this song since I was 13. I’ve never thought to play it this way. You did an excellent job with it. Iron Maiden would be proud.

[@jimlahey5623]

This is shit.

[@TGSamantha091]

I'm 53. Maiden Fan Since early 80's. Love this version

[@chaz-mi1ch]

Me too! We must be about the same age! Rock on!!!

[@chaz-mi1ch]

Priceless! Thank you for inspiring! ROCK ON!!!!

[@alexandremagno6813]

Up the Irons! Bravo! Magnific! True!!! 😮😮😮😮😮😮😮😮😮😮

[@Supe-for-the-soul]

At 51 and undergoing a mid-life crisis, these lyrics have finally taken on a hitherto unseen depth of meaning. And a large part of that is owed to how you delivered this cover. Thank you, sir. I realize these are my golden years. Love from 12,000 feet in the mountains of Bhutan.

[@stuartclifford8795]

Welcome to England Bhutan! 🙂

[@TheBillaro]

bhutan! can i come visit. add me on line. geoffreycurrie

[@mikekolokowsky]

Did you come from Bhutan? I ask because running out to the mountains of Bhutan is what someone in a mid-life crisis would do to cure themself. If you start from there and have a mid-life crisis anyway... I don’t know. Run to a mid level city and get a meaningless desk job to find yourself?

[@Monomate360]

Ive had a midlife crises my entire life lol This is an excellent performance of a really life changing song 😎

[@thomasschuldt4557]

Love and light to you, brother 🙏🌞❤

[@leonardomedina613]

The Maiden guys would be proud of this performing. I ran and took my guitar and played along. Couldn't handle the tears, too much time away from home. Thank you on this man

[@stuartclifford8795]

❤ you know if you look in the description notes there is a link to my tutorial for this? Good luck, enjoy 🙂🎸

[@craigc9975]

I’m imagining Mr Clifford breaking out his guitar while sitting around a camp fire at night with friends and playing this amazing rendition - damn, that would be a hell of a moment!

[@ananda_miaoyin]

That would be great...especially if I could do it. I have a really nice Takamine as well but it doesn't sound like that!

[@jgrn43]

Just lost my father. Life long maiden fan. This is amazing. I understand this song now. Stuart, you are a gift. Thank you sir.

[@stuartclifford8795]

❤

[@jupitercyclops6521]

Bro! Lost my dad (& my hero) 7 yrs ago. My experience has been this; It gets better with time for the most part. There are times when the sorrow is just as bad, but they're way less frequent & the duration isn't as bad. I focus on how fortunate I was to have him in my life at all. PEACE!!

[@mertbatuaktas6090]

I lost my dad 28 days ago and he is die hard iron maiden fan. Time heals I get it now. I'm feeling better and better.

[@BrunoHenrique-jr1uj]

Great great cover in accoustic! Your voice suits very well on that! Stay tuned mate Stuart! 👍🏻 🙂​ Yeahhhh@@stuartclifford8795

[@UnclePorkchop]

this is wholesome

[@birlupis]

I'm a 54-year old lifelong Maiden fan from Buenos Aires, Argentina, and I am bawling my eyes out. Holy. Shit. What a masterful rendition.

[@stuartclifford8795]

Thanks from England 🙂

[@jenniferk507]

Same here.

[@collinhall6583]

🥲

[@derivicus]

I'm 58

[@clappagemcphee]

Abrazos para ti desde sudáfrica, hermano

[@watchroll3310]

When I was 18 years old and I listened to Ironmaiden, old people liked 1950s music. Now, the modern old people listen to Iron maiden.

[@metal-marco]

My wife just came in to hear who is singin so beautifully (She's a singer herself). Thanks for an emotional moment. It sounds very honest.

[@stuartclifford8795]

From the heart 🙂 Thanks for listening and commenting and thanks to your wife too. I'm so glad my music is shared in this way 🙂🎸

[@chubbrock659]

What does that mean? “Sounds honest”

[@stuartclifford8795]

@@chubbrock659 from the heart ❤ 🙂🎸

[@metal-marco]

@@chubbrock659 Thats what it says: If he was a 14 year old upperclass insta-addict singing about "wasted years" i wouldn't believe him....;)

[@chubbrock659]

@@metal-marco gotcha, that makes sense

[@LovingGoodContent]

This is what KZbin was made for. I adore humanity. I aspire to be this man's energy.

[@robertkay9871]

As a 58 yo Iron Maiden fan, I love how this guy has his own take on the song 😄

[@Joe-tr4oh]

I'm 60 years old iron maiden rocks forever

[@peppito2775]

I am 45 years old and I‘ve been a MAIDEN fan for 34 years and I am very touched by this version. Thank you!

[@lemondrop2920]

Same age, same impression. Easy! For me, this song says it all. Realizing the meaning of these lyrics is giving me pure inner peace. Of course, there are people my age with more money, a shinier car and whatsoever. But: I am healthy. I have two healthy kids and a wonderful relationship. I have no worries about tomorrow. This is my time and I am aware of it each night I go to bed. If things should change to the worse, I know what I had. If not: my life is a gift

[@MrPauloteixeira21]

Congratulations Stuart, today you made a 38-year-old grown man shed a tear on public transport on the way to work with your brilliant interpretation. I've been listening to Maiden since I was a child, influenced by my brothers and whenever I feel sad, wondering if I'm living my years well, this song reminds me that yes, I am. Big hug from São Paulo, Brazil. Keep rocking!

[@stuartclifford8795]

Big hugs back from England. Thanks for your kind words and thanks for listening and commenting 🙂 🎸

[@willc8755]

Put a tear in my heart also🤙🤘

[@ProphetTomas]

I too shed tears.

[@ronenos2396]

Im not sure why but your comment brought me to tears…Life huh 🤍respect🤘🏼

[@stuartclifford8795]

@@ronenos2396 it's very heartwarming for me to know that my passion for the music and the words gets through to people. Thank you for listening and commenting it makes my day 🙂🎸

[@mstevinson1568]

I'm almost 60 years old, an old Iron Maiden fan. Curiously click on this video. Brought me to tears. You are AWESOME! Please do more.

[@Lllllll76540]

Me the same...

[@Waltorian]

Me too. They were one of the bands that saved my life through high school in the early 80s.

[@user-vp6ef3iv6e]

Dude, RIGHT?!

[@shaynewest8757]

Or Adrian Smith who actually wrote it

[@priestof1s]

Lifelong Iron Maiden fan here. Outstanding job! We are dying off and it does my heart good to see a man sit down and throw out one of the great ones. In an age of trash spewing out of the speakers what a way to scream LONG LIVE MAIDEN!

[@dennisroach5424]

Rockstar! Wherever you are now, they're the golden years

[@navaskin]

I heard this at 14. I'm 51 as well. What a ride. This version brought me to tears. At 14 it was a warning. At 51 it's a beautiful reflection. Lots of crazy. So many beautiful moments! I'm celebrating life at this tender age. Thank you for sharing. This is in my rotation.

[@charterofrightsandfreedoms6064]

Well Said

[@michelleisaacson6069]

Same here. Was 15 when I heard it and 52 now....perfectly said

[@sjnix7044]

Somewhere in Time was my first Maiden show at (Scream for me) Long Beach Arena. What you just said is the PERFECT encapsulation of what this song represents both the original and this version for me at 52. I'm a little teary thinking about it but it's a good teary. :)

[@jongreen6422]

I also listened to this when I was younger this is a beautiful version

[@user-gf2nd2ig1y]

Well Said,.... AMAZING Version,..I Was Automatically Drawn in somehow,👍 Thank you,I'm Grateful

[@slavisakovacevic5575]

I just hope Bruce himself, hear this somethimes in his life.

[@craigbrown1672]

Adrian’s song my bro

[@ketapillar]

Needs more cowbell!

[@slavisakovacevic5575]

I dont get it 😂​@@ketapillar

[@michaelinnes992]

Brilliant song; Brilliant,heartfelt, inspirational performance. I listen over and over again. For those who seek😅 a better place and time. That lies ahead, not in our cherry picked imaginations of days gone by. Thank you for the time and persistence in developing your gift to share later in life. You inspire me to look ahead and achieve again

[@billyd7882]

Wow. This man does justice to the original.

[@sulfur_25]

I'm just a 19-year-old boy, but it make me sad and happy at the same time. Hello from Ukraine!

[@stuartclifford8795]

Hello Ukraine from England. Thank you so much for listening and commenting it makes my day. We're all thinking and hoping and supporting you all 🇺🇦🙂🎸

[@dr.thrashfinger4915]

Hello Ukraine from the world! Or at least the USA. Stay safe my son. Music will bring the world together.

[@TheDudeAbides369]

I'm 60 and Iron Maiden is my favorite band of all time. Your amazing acoustic rendition brought tears to my eyes! Well played, man. well played...

same here man

[@TGSamantha091]

Indeed same

😶@@TGSamantha091

[@jeroendekker1053]

Same here man 👍😢 That was really the golden years

[@winx4930]

😫😫😫😫😩😓😯😄

[@alan220781]

As a Maiden diehard I never realized how emotional and powerful the lyric is until I heard this magnifique cover. Well done Sir. Up the Irons.🤘🏻

[@whaackjob1]

That's exactly what I thought.

[@johnwagg1538]

This really puts a total different perspective on the song for me. It does seem like the lyrics hit harder. Great cover

[@mangdiddlesDOTcom]

Same here

[@johnoreilly9827]

😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅

[@johnoreilly9827]

😅go😅d bless hi😅m he is correct 😅😊😅😅😅😅😅th😅e golden years😅

[@jimanleo8312]

I would love to think that Bruce and the boys have heard this ( admittedly there are thousands of covers) and realize how deeply they have impacted all of the EdHeads on this planet. Never a dull moment- even if it makes me cry.

[@emreeerdogan]

Just amazing. Gave a new life to this song. And what a performance. Thank you!

[@koosvan100]

Never too old to be cool. Great version of the song.

[@thelastrebelshow1627]

Something tells me he was cool long before he go old.

[@user-zq2vu4bs5x]

NEVER underestimate an old man 🤘

[@allisonmackay3818]

How old do you think Iron Maiden are? 😉

[@JV-df9em]

It’s funny, I’ve been listening to Maiden my entire life, and I don’t think I ever truly LISTENED to the lyrics. Wow.

[@allisonmackay3818]

Oh I don't believe that. But some of their songs are sleeper gems, I agree. They hide behind the Powerslaves and Troopers...

[@LearnCompositionOnline]

This is their best. I don’t hear it for their e C D

[@enriqueponce1410]

Thank you...Just...Thank you :')

[@gmutt26]

Wow. Somewhere in time was the first cd I ever bought 30 years ago. This should be released as a single. Sounds amazing.

[@TomNewman127]

I've been listening to this song for over 20 years, but it's only now that the lyrics have finally showed themselves and touched my soul. Thank you

[@1878religion]

I felt the same about the lyrics 🤘

[@mareker]

Same here

[@timothymelbinger4089]

Agreed

[@TomRamsayMusic]

Totally agree 🙌🙌

[@emmanuelbisson8978]

Very right indeed.

[@stevebeck57]

I’m 65 years old and sat with my jaw dropped. I sent this video to my grandson who has 2 bands. He was amazed at the acoustic version.♥️👍🏼🙏 Great job!

[@MisterMeEu]

Me too

[@barrieprice7073]

Fantastic mate love the feeling you put into it

[@Lee-pf3bw]

Stolen arrangement but great result

[@sixril3870]

@@Lee-pf3bw do you have the original arrangement please ?

[@Chrishagen]

@@Lee-pf3bwbullsh!t. Stolen from whom? Always one hater.

[@patricemoniez]

I'm French, 55 years old... And I cry with this so emotional version... Thank you so much 🙏😭❤️

[@fese6513]

You made me think about my life a little. Bless you, old man.

[@mediumdoubledouble9012]

This is what happens when you take away everything away from a studio version and see the skeleton of a song. Truly well written songs will always last no matter how basic it’s covered. This is a perfect example. I love it, this is the best way to learn any song. Break it right down to this, then build on it.

[@natmanprime4295]

this guy and ryan adams show me that acoustic is better version

[@cleberantonio8194]

I wouldnt say skeleton of the song, but the core, the soul.

[@keithpye2701]

Brilliant my friend

[@matthewbodmer5552]

Brilliant, for sure. Cheers to this man.

[@briancolman4142]

Truth

[@peatmarshnotfound]

I lost my father in November 2023 at 58 years old. I'm 31 and I never realized how our lives had been spent so beautifully until I didn't have him anymore. Thanks for this.

[@stuartclifford8795]

❤

[@LEFTYSMOKER]

toutes mes condoléances.

[@Samurai78420]

Not comparing, but I lost mine in 2017. He was 62. My best friend and band mate since I was a kid. I'm still in the late stages of denial. My heart goes out to you my friend.

[@peatmarshnotfound]

@@Samurai78420 My father had lost his only 2 years before. I'm not sure he ever made it past denial. I'm learning to do what makes us happy. No point in us being unhappy if this is all we get. It is nice to know people understand. Thank you.

[@realjoakim1337]

Lost mine when he was 49. I was a bit over 20, now 38. He was a huge Iron Maiden fan. Love this version, many thanks for the upload.

[@angshumansarma8425]

Old timer singing the lyrics hit even harder❤❤❤

[@jampz5978]

Absolutley outstanding sir!!!!!!! Just an incredible and touching song stripped back like that! Eddie would be proud

[@jamesschmidt5813]

I wish there was a double like button. One like isn't enough.

[@mystifyme7328]

I hardly know what to say !! 56 years, a guitarist for 35 of them. Wow memories..An excellent track, and brilliant version both in style and vocal. A treat Stuart. I salute you.

[@pacoonate2034]

What you said!! Pure talent

[@georgelaird8703]

Absolutely I love this version, Stuart you need a Ivor Novello for this pal 🎉

[@georgelaird8703]

Hopefully the band will reach out, knowing them they will,the humblest of metal bands 🤘

[@NewSlaveAge]

Ik geniet. 🥰

[@user-xy3dt3cq6c]

When he sings it, it's like wisdom being passed down to those who are just starting out on the road of life

[@RogerioSantos-bi4ji]

no words... 👏👏👏

[@451dskots88]

Wasted Years has always been my favorite Iron Maiden song... Sir you did this song some serious justice.

[@hieroglyfiharri4601]

This version is the best

[@danielcraveneri9269]

🤙😈🤘💜

[@reubensane5539]

I never thought an Iron Maiden metal song would make such a perfect melancholy, folk song ,beautiful.

[@The-Real-Blissful-Ignorance]

Check out Beth Patterson, she has a terrific cover of Wasted Years.

[@mikespearwood3914]

@@The-Real-Blissful-Ignorance Exactly what this reminded me of!

[@ShedDwellerMakerandRepairer]

Thats exactly what every iron maiden song is, just with a metallic twist.😂

[@joelsero]

Great songs with melodies do, regardless of the instrumentation. This concept seems to have been lost on at least a generation of popular and metal music.

[@jordanleblanc1379]

Lovely!🤘

[@lzylightnin]

Somebody's grandpa got 2 million views because he showed a lot of people how heavy this song is I, for one, really didn't *hear* these lyrics till I saw this. And Iron Maiden was my first favorite band in the 80s

[@chiragmajumder1717]

This is a masterpiece. Maiden rules, you rule . These are the golden years

[@m_tal939]

Never heard any one do an acoustic version of a Maiden song. Makes you realise how great the lyrics are. Brilliantly done.

[@stuartclifford8795]

Thanks Steve. Yes indeed beautiful lyrics I agree. I'm just learning another Maiden song "Como estais amigo" which I hope to upload in a week or two.🙂 Thank you for listening and commenting it makes my day 😊 🎸

[@pedroteran5885]

There is a Maiden acoustic cover project with multiple albums called Maiden United. It had a couple of Within Temptation musicians and Damian Wilson on vocals, who was (or is said to have been, anyway) shortlisted to replace Bruce Dickinson when he left the band. For instance, their take on The Evil That Men Do is really good. Btw, great cover, Stuart! 😊 I'm very much expecting your Cómo Estáis Amigos.

[@frostillicusband]

​@@pedroteran5885there's also Nylon Maiden but those are mostly classical guitar instrumental covers, with occasional guest vocals

[@kevinmacleod6761]

Hi from up here in Alness in the Highlands of Scotland. That was a fantastic cover version. Very impressive.😊

[@Duncan8er]

If you watch the movie Spun, it has an acoustic version of Number of the Beast. I think Billy Corban was the music director for the film.

[@hildebrandosantos3325]

U made me understand why Iron Maiden has millions of fans. You are a star shining in this planet sir. Greetings from Brazil!

[@stuartclifford8795]

And thanks from England 🙂

[@faronmoody5910]

You're a bad ass!!! Much Love!!!

[@ra-a_tsukuyomigt9298]

I honestly like this way more than the original. You're voice and the way you play guitar is just perfect

[@RH-xs8gz]

I’m sitting here with my jaw on the floor. This is truly one of the best covers of any song I’ve ever heard. I applaud you sir for taking a great song and interpreting it in such an unexpected way. 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@stuartclifford8795]

Wow, thank you! 🙂🎸

[@slawomirlitwinowicz6694]

Few years ago, while I listened that song, I was depressed. Time passed, and now I understand the meaning of this masterpiece. Greetings from Poland

[@JohnDoe-fz7hz]

Polish guy depressed? no cars to snitch 😉Just Kidding. Hope you solved it and being well🙌🙌

[@erishkigal1]

to jest w ogóle genialny kawałek, pozdrawiam!

[@stuartclifford8795]

Thank you so much and welcome to England. I'm glad you like my acoustic version of this brilliant song. Hope you're no longer depressed 🙂. Thanks for listening and commenting it makes my day 😊 🎸

[@carlgreen7981]

Really enjoyed this Stuart. I play guitar myself and this has inspired me to try and improve. Keep up the good work. 👍🏻

[@jasonbecker7899]

Beautiful cover. Greetings from Chile

[@gangsterSoup]

Absolutely beautiful ❤️

[@mikewilson8594]

Ive listened to this again. Still comforting and peaceful many listens, later!

[@zerozerohero7189]

As a man of 51 years, having loved this song since its release and now watching an older gentleman play it, there's something very profound about it all

[@joevallone7313]

I feel the same way. it kinda hits harder than the original.

[@richporak]

I’m 51 and that was one of my all time favorite Maiden songs and this guy brought a tear to my eye. Amazing !!!!

[@cdbig9er]

Same here brother.

[@TimothyHuffGuitar]

52 here and yes...this was very emotionally captivating and moved me.

[@iraevans2013]

47… somewhere in time was my first maiden album. Ty

[@charliepearson1678]

Yup

[@pumpalBo]

48, same thoughts

[@CurriedBat]

I used to listen to this song on repeat during my tree planting days. I only ever planted as fast while listening to Led Zeppelin IV. One of the most beautiful songs I've ever heard, this acoustic version is incredible.

[@ErikMoratzka]

Are you kidding me?! Please, make more of these. So many of the rock ballads are trapped by their genre’s reputation, and are actually beautifully written lyrics and, when stripped of the noise, are often delicate and hauntingly beautiful compositions. This is a great example. Some of RUSH’s songs would be good material as well.

[@stuartclifford8795]

Thanks Erik. If you look down the list on my channel there are a couple more Maiden songs there including my most recent "Paschendale ". Thanks for listening and commenting it makes my day 🙂 🎸

[@ScarbadosSlim]

As a 56 year old and life long Iron Maiden fan, can I say what an absolutely wonderful cover this is. As a long time sufferer of depression, this song helps me to focus on the positives and the love that surrounds me today and to let go of the negatives of the past. The original version and this beautiful 'calm' version echo the opposing states of mind I find myself in. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.

[@stephanedorion992]

It's absolutely perfect. I was 20... doesn't feel the same 37 years later... Rock will never die.

[@joshybrisby8854]

KZbin needs a "love" button. And even that would underestimate this. Just superb.

[@mnkydoo4290]

Wow. That brought me shivers down my spine. Such a beautiful cover 🙏

[@Shogunwario]

I never realized how well written that song was. This was really great.

[@coachwhitford7315]

Like Chris Cornell's version of Michael Jackson's Billie Jean. Appreciate the song far more. Well done sir.

[@sebdos]

All adrian smith songs are like this, unczn feel he wrote them Raw

[@DM.98]

How much power with only an acoustic guitar and a beautiful voice...Thank you Sir you have my respect. Greetings from Italy

[@stuartclifford8795]

Thanks from England 🙂

[@AndrewLeslie-ok7dh]

Brilliant man, this song touches my heart almost every time, peace be with you, and all.

[@user-ou1xd9om4t]

Respect from Russian fan of Iron Maiden! 👍

[@stuartclifford8795]

Thanks from England 🙂 🎸

[@oldsniper3322]

Brother as a 60 yr old metalist from the 80-2014 I must say this is the best damn acoustic version I have ever heard. And one of my old favs to boot. Well delivered and well played. This will bring a lot of meaning to many of our generation, that failed to understand it then. Bravo As a musician I'm touched, Thank You.

[@PacAnimal]

These lyrics are so much more impactful when they're recited by an older performer. Beautiful interpretation. Reminds me of how what Johnny Cash did with "Hurt".

[@scowlistic]

💯

[@mattgraves7915]

Goosebumps

[@danielwymer3273]

Sometimes people forget the songs meaning due to style and image of a band. Great job at realizing the songs meaning.

[@mosherj666]

I've been a Maiden fan 44 years, and this interpretation of Wasted Years is magnificent. 😁🤘

[@killmatt2687]

I'm 50 years old now a fellow guitar player for over 30. And it's unbelievable how much the meaning of this song has changed from when I was 11 years old listening to this with a young impressionable mind and today today with 40 years past. You killed it... you owned this and I look forward to listening to it many more times.

[@paulmuwadeeb2161]

Spot on - I could have wrote this myself word for word, it's exactly how I feel too.

[@twoshady518]

same here. 50 with 30+ guitar years in. this was amazing to listen to. fist bump*

[@GilesQorey]

Also, 50, a Yank, raised in Britain, now in Texas. Saw Maiden at Donington and seen them 15 times total. I just want to ditto what killmatt2687 said. Exactly mate. Exactly. This song just became something even more profound played acoustically.

[@WanBerry]

53 here minus 20+ guitar years after an accident with 2 plates of metal in my left arm ever since.. This version really touchy but bring joy to my young at heart!❤🎉🎉

[@davidkay1948]

I agree with most of the songs I listen to

[@eduardocarias4106]

I would do anything to have a father or a grandpa just like him. What a treasure you are, sir Stuart.

[@stuartclifford8795]

Thanks so much Eduardo. Yes it's nice being a grandpa 👍. Thanks for listening and commenting it makes my day 🙂

[@dextarantino9941]

@@stuartclifford8795 Seeing you say making comments makes your day just made my day. Thank you Stuart, for all the happiness you spread. Much love

[@albertoserra9313]

Grande interpretação! Forte abraço e boa noite

[@meraharjuna5049]

I use to perfom this song in a full version of. I. Maiden and givin all out as its very power melodic heavy metal tune... But just realize that its more than heavy metal - its full of calmness when heard u did with your soothing voc & guitar work... Simply amaizing sir...love & respect from 🇲🇾❤

[@stuartclifford8795]

@@meraharjuna5049 ❤

[@amorim31]

Great version, what a good vibe in a imortal classic. Thanks from Brazil. Obrigado!

[@stuartclifford8795]

Thanks from England 🙂 🎸

[@user-bg7tn5rq4b]

The best acoustic cover of Iron Maiden 🎉🤘👏

[@stuartclifford8795]

Wow thank you so much. It gives me great pleasure to share my music, and warm comments like yours make my day. Thanks again 🙂 🎸

[@peterbos3487]

For an also great acoustic version of this song see the Dutch Artist Anneke, kzbin.info/www/bejne/qYK3hZybbpVmq5Y

[@TabuRobo]

Indeed!

[@B0nezee]

You forget how beautiful the lyrics are to this song with how great the guitar in it is. This is absolutely beautiful.

[@kenduffy5397]

It’s a beautiful song because it’s the absolutely true! The older you get, the more you realize how you wasted so many of your years over worrying, thinking, if I could, I should, I can’t, I shouldn’t, am I good enough, I was wrong, she was right, all those years wasted away while you could have been living life!

[@brettluster7967]

Great adaptation! 1st time I really HEARD the lyrics. It's a KEEPER'. 😎👍🏼👍🏼

[@styxxtheanimal5720]

@@kenduffy5397 Well said, and yes my thoughts exactly

[@kenduffy5397]

@@brettluster7967 I’ve heard the song a million times; both on the album & live. However, I never really could make out the lyrics. There’s a lot of great songs that tell a story. (Storytelling through music, has been around since the beginning of mankind) After hearing every word in this lyrical masterpiece? I have zero problems with putting it in my top FIVE! Because I’m 51 & I’ve always been a worrier! (Not a doer) Had I taken the time out in my 20s & 30s to realize how INCREDIBLY short our lives are? (I didn’t start school until late) I’m a history major & it opened my eyes that our lives are nothing more than a nanosecond in this universe!

[@username604error5]

How could Maiden have crafted this Banging classic of its time …. which would become a recapitulation for our senior years and souls …. That is some Divine Metal Gods stuff at work ❤ Peace ☮️ and Blessings to all ❤

[@mightyjudo65]

I'm not articulate enough to express how moved I was by this, so I'll just like and subscribe and say thanks.❤

[@KrispyChickenGaming]

I'm not kidding when I say I listened to this with tears in my eyes. It was beautiful.

[@MARKIEBANUNCE]

Same here

[@apollo2010ism]

Me too!@@MARKIEBANUNCE

[@innocentvictim9920]

Probably the absolute best cover of this Iron Maiden song I’ve ever heard, cried all the way through it. Magnificent in my opinion.

[@RonTimmonsM1]

Absolutely phenomenal and precious

[@Willie_Wahzoo]

Excellent work. Beautiful playing and singing, sir.

[@david894]

I am a Maiden die hard fan. I saw them live in 1986 with the Somewhere in Time album, and of course love Wasted Years. I am a bit of a purist, but I have to say this version is an absolutely beautiful rendition of a great classic. Well done sir!!! I enjoyed it immensely. Thank you.

[@torreyamrhein4089]

I saw them same tour. Market Square arena in Indianapolis. They truly gave us their best in my opinion.

[@thorstenm4119]

i see it Ruhrstadion, Bochum, Germany on August 28, 1988 from the Seventh Tour , i was 17 years old , greats germany

[@user-jv3bq4gx3z]

Can u imagine this old guy with clive burr

[@wayneharris1361]

I’ve been a Maiden fan for 44 years, Dave is a dear personal friend. I’m sending this to him tonight. This is totally on point. I get it. Bravo🔥🤘🏽🔥

[@wayneharris1361]

i sent your version off to Dave Murray last night, he responded right away, he Loved it, Cheers!

[@chrisw5742]

@@wayneharris1361 That is super awesome. :-) This version is breathtaking.

[@Barbarosa1234]

@@wayneharris1361 wow that’s so cool of you to send this to Dave and awesome of Dave to respond and give the thumbs up - which this amazing rendition definitely deserves. So cool all the way around 😊 Up the Irons! 😎👍🏻

[@JC-du6sn]

Look up Within Heaven's Gates by Rebecca Springer. Page 64 😇

[@wayneharris1361]

i dont know Adrian, we've never met, but I've been a fan for decades@@NoName-sn3fq

[@JonnyBlade]

I had some downtime at work and clicked on this, expecting whatever.... I had to stop listening. Can't sit at work and cry and blow my nose. This is a beautiful cover.

[@Idkwhtpsipto]

I am a 117 year old Maiden fan and I’ve never cried like this before

[@blackerpanther3329]

Lololol!

[@pasousam]

Alright Johnny, your time with Mommie's phone is up now.

[@timothyfavorite1875]

Noob, Im 147. I heard Iron Maiden perform at Queen Elizabeths inauguration.

[@rxw5520]

You’re 117 years old and an iron maiden fan, or you’ve been an Iron Maiden fan for 117 years? It was unclear to me from your original statement.

[@HenriqueMinuzo]

Bilbo Baggins

[@SavDog262]

I realize he’s living in his golden years like a boss!! Well done sir!

[@nuestromundo5815]

God bless you.

[@Dmitri_I]

Great performance! It turned out very emotional, it really touches me to the depths of my soul. Thank you very much from all Iron Maiden fans.

[@dubbelkagge]

I am usually allergic to maidencovers. 99.9% of them are a shame. But this, sir. This is purely and utterly perfection. Very well done!

[@raultorres6283]

Totally agree!

[@captainzeppos]

This. This is not a "cover". This is someone very talented transforming a well known song to something else, to his own song. I'm not ashamed to say I like this song better than the original, and I've been listening to the original for decades now.

[@gomongio]

Same happens to me whenever I hear a Maiden song made for singer A but sung by any of the other two. Bruce never could make Paul’s songs justice, Blaze’s voice is totally different than the ones of his predecessors.