Conquest Music has confirmed the death of former Iron Maiden vocalist Paul Di’Anno. Paul passed away at his home in Salisbury at the age of 66. Conquest Music have released the following statement:
Born in Chingford, East London on 17 May 1958, Paul first came to prominence as lead singer of English Heavy Metal band Iron Maiden between 1978 and 1981. He sang on their groundbreaking debut album Iron Maiden and the influential follow-up release, Killers.
Since leaving Iron Maiden, Paul Di’Anno had a long and eventful recording career with Battlezone and Killers, as well as numerous solo releases and guest appearances.
Despite being troubled by severe health issues in recent years that restricted him to performing in a wheelchair, Paul continued to entertain his fans around the world, racking up well over 100 shows since 2023.
His first career retrospective album, The Book Of The Beast, was released in September 2024 and featured highlights of his recordings since leaving Iron Maiden.
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.
More details to follow.
The Early Years of Iron Maiden
Paul Di’Anno’s rise to fame began with Iron Maiden, one of the most influential heavy metal bands of all time. Di’Anno joined the band in 1978 and quickly made his mark on the band’s sound. His powerful vocals and dynamic stage presence helped to define Iron Maiden’s early sound, which was characterized by its aggressive, fast-paced energy and complex musical arrangements. Di’Anno’s time with Iron Maiden was short-lived but impactful, as he performed on the band’s first two albums, "Iron Maiden" (1980) and "Killers" (1981). He was replaced by Bruce Dickinson in 1981, a change that would mark the beginning of a new chapter for the band. During his tenure, Di’Anno performed over 100 shows and became a legend among heavy metal fans.
A Life After Iron Maiden
After leaving Iron Maiden, Di'Anno had a long and eventful career. He released numerous solo albums, formed several bands, and toured extensively. He also had his share of personal struggles, including addiction and health problems. Despite these challenges, Di'Anno continued to make music and perform until the end of his life.
Career Highlights
Di'Anno's musical legacy includes his involvement in various bands, including:
- Battlezone (1984-1986)
- Killers (1985-1989)
- Gogmagog (1987)
- Di’Anno (1989-2024)
He also released several solo albums, notably:
- The Mad – The Bad – The Sad (2000)
- The Book Of The Beast (2024)
A Lasting Legacy
Paul Di’Anno’s passing is a major loss for the world of heavy metal. He was a talented singer, songwriter, and performer. His impact on the genre can be seen in the countless bands that have been inspired by Iron Maiden’s early sound, which Di’Anno played a crucial role in creating. His music and legacy will live on for generations to come.
Final Curtain
Paul Di'Anno, a singer who played a pivotal role in heavy metal's early years, has died at the age of 66. Despite his struggles and challenges, he left an indelible mark on the genre and will be remembered for his powerful vocals, his dynamic stage presence, and his passion for heavy metal music. His departure is a reminder that even those who have achieved great things can face significant obstacles. Di’Anno's legacy will continue to inspire aspiring musicians and fans worldwide.
