Paul Di'Anno, the former lead singer of the iconic heavy metal band Iron Maiden, has passed away at the age of 66. His death was confirmed by the band via social media and their record label, Conquest Music. The cause of death has not been disclosed, but it was noted that Di'Anno had been dealing with significant health issues in recent years, which left him wheelchair-bound. Despite these challenges, he managed to perform over 100 concerts globally since 2023, showcasing his dedication to his fans and music.
Born Paul Andrews in Chingford, East London, on May 17, 1958, Di'Anno joined Iron Maiden in 1978, contributing to their self-titled debut album released in 1980 and its follow-up, 'Killers,' in 1981. His distinctive raspy voice was instrumental in establishing the band's early sound and their rise in the heavy metal scene. However, after a successful world tour in 1981, Di'Anno was replaced by Bruce Dickinson due to his struggles with addiction, which he later acknowledged as detrimental to the band and himself.
Following his departure from Iron Maiden, Di'Anno pursued a solo career, forming bands like Battlezone and Killers, and continued to influence the heavy metal genre. His recent retrospective album, 'The Book of the Beast,' released in September 2024, celebrated his legacy and contributions to heavy metal. Additionally, a documentary about his life is set to be released later this year, ensuring his impact on the music world endures.
Iron Maiden, one of the most significant bands in heavy metal history, expressed deep sorrow over Di'Anno's passing. In their tribute, they highlighted his immense contribution to the band's success and the lasting memory he leaves for fans. Iron Maiden is also set to headline the Eurockéennes de Belfort festival in July 2025, further cementing their legacy in the music industry.
