Paul Di’Anno, the former frontman of Iron Maiden, has died aged 66.
The heavy metal singer was the lead vocalist for the group between 1978 and 1981, and featured on the band's first two albums, Iron Maiden and Killers, establishing them as a crucial part of the new wave of British heavy metal.
His death was announced today (October 21) in a statement by his record label Conquest Music, who said they “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,” per MetalTalk. He died at his home in Salisbury, Wiltshire.
Iron Maiden posted this tribute on Instagram:
“We are all deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Paul Di’Anno earlier today. Paul’s contribution to Iron Maiden was immense and helped set us on the path we have been travelling as a band for almost five decades. His pioneering presence as a frontman and vocalist, both onstage and on our first two albums, will be very fondly remembered not just by us, but by fans around the world.
“‘It’s just so sad he’s gone,’ comments Steve Harris. ‘I was in touch with him only recently as we texted each other about West Ham and their ups and downs. 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.’
“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.”
No cause of death has yet been announced.
Paul Di'Anno, born Paul Andrews on May 17, 1958, was a pioneering British vocalist whose raw, gritty voice defined the early sound of heavy metal. He rose to fame as the original lead singer of Iron Maiden, joining the band in 1978. His distinctive voice and rebellious stage presence were integral to the band's early success, helping to shape their identity with landmark albums like Iron Maiden (1980) and Killers (1981). Di'Anno’s unique delivery, full of intensity and aggression, became a defining feature of Maiden’s nascent sound and influenced countless metal bands that followed.
Despite his departure from the band in 1981 due to personal and professional differences, Di'Anno’s impact on Iron Maiden’s legacy remains undeniable. Following his departure, he formed his own band Battlezone and later pursued a solo career, continuing to perform and record music. Throughout his life, Di'Anno battled personal challenges and health issues but remained a passionate figure in the rock and metal communities.
