- Paul Di'Anno, Iron Maiden's original singer, dies at 66
- Vocalist shaped band's early sound
- Band members pay tribute
Paul Di’Anno, the pioneering vocalist who helped establish Iron Maiden as a cornerstone of the new wave of British heavy metal, has passed away at the age of 66.
Di’Anno, born Paul Andrews, played a crucial role in shaping the band’s early sound, featuring on their debut albums “Iron Maiden” and “Killers.” His raw, aggressive vocals influenced a generation of metal bands, including Metallica, Pantera, and Sepultura.
“Iron Maiden’s current members paid tribute, saying they were “all deeply saddened” by his death. Bassist Steve Harris reflected, “It’s just so sad he’s gone… At least he was still gigging until recently, it was something that kept him going, to be out there whenever he could. He will be missed by us all. Rest in peace mate.”
The band acknowledged Di’Anno’s immense contribution, stating, “His pioneering presence as a frontman and vocalist, both on stage and on our first two albums, will be very fondly remembered not just by us, but by fans around the world.”
Di’Anno’s departure from Iron Maiden in 1981 was marked by excess and personal struggles. He admitted to partying “non-stop, 24 hours a day,” acknowledging the impact on the band, fans, and himself.
Despite health issues, including lymphedema, Di’Anno maintained an active music career, releasing a career retrospective album, “The Book of the Beast,” last month. A documentary about his life is slated for release later this year.
Conquest Music, Di’Anno’s record label, announced his passing, saying, “Conquest Music are proud to have had Paul Di’Anno in our artist family and ask his legion of fans to raise a glass in his memory.”
Di’Anno’s legacy as a metal pioneer and influential vocalist remains, with Iron Maiden’s current members and fans around the world paying tribute to his enduring impact.
