Paul Di’Anno, the original lead singer of the iconic heavy metal band Iron Maiden, has died at the age of 66. His passing was confirmed by his record label, Conquest Music, in a statement released on Monday via Facebook. Di’Anno, born Paul Andrews, passed away at his home in Salisbury, England. The label did not disclose the cause of his death.
“On behalf of his family, Conquest Music are sad to confirm the death of Paul Andrews, professionally known as Paul Di’Anno. Paul passed away at his home in Salisbury at the age of 66,” the statement read.
It also paid tribute to Di’Anno’s legacy, adding, “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.”
Iron Maiden, the band that Di’Anno helped propel to fame, also expressed their sadness over the loss of their former frontman. The band shared a tribute on Instagram, recalling their recent reunion with him and acknowledging his contributions to their history.
“We were very grateful to have had the chance to catch up a couple of years ago and to spend time with him once more. On behalf of the band, Rod and Andy, and the whole Iron Maiden team, we extend our deepest sympathies to Paul’s family and close friends. Rest In Peace Paul,” the post read.
Paul Di’Anno was born on May 17, 1958, in Chingford, East London. He became Iron Maiden’s first lead vocalist in 1978, a role he held until 1981. During this time, Di’Anno was the voice behind Iron Maiden’s self-titled debut album, Iron Maiden, released in 1980, and its influential follow-up, Killers, in 1981. Both albums played a significant role in defining the sound of the emerging heavy metal scene.
His powerful voice and raw energy on stage helped shape Iron Maiden’s early identity. The band’s debut album featured hits like “Running Free” and “Phantom of the Opera,” tracks that would become staples in the heavy metal genre.
However, his time with the band was cut short in 1981, as he struggled with a lifestyle of “non-stop partying.”
Di’Anno admitted that his behavior had become unsustainable and was taking a toll on the band and its fans. Following his departure, he was replaced by Bruce Dickinson, who went on to become the band’s most iconic frontman.
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Despite leaving Iron Maiden, Di’Anno continued to make music throughout his career. He performed with various bands and released solo projects, maintaining a dedicated fanbase who followed his work beyond his Iron Maiden years. In September 2024, Di’Anno released Book of the Beast, a retrospective album that highlighted key moments from his career after leaving the band.
News of Di’Anno’s death has deeply affected fans of Iron Maiden and the heavy metal community worldwide. Many took to social media to share their memories of the singer and express their gratitude for his contributions to the music scene.