British heavy metal vocalist, Paul Di’Anno, best known as the original frontman for Iron Maiden, has died at the age of 66.
The news of his death was confirmed by his former band, which paid tribute to him in a heartfelt social media post on Monday.
The band shared their sorrow, writing, “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.”
The tribute was accompanied by a picture of Di’Anno alongside Iron Maiden’s founding bassist Steve Harris.
The statement continued, praising Di’Anno’s influence on the band’s early years. “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. 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.”
Steve Harris, reflecting on his personal connection to Di’Anno, added in a separate quote, “It’s just so sad he’s gone. 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 ⚒⚒.”
Di’Anno fronted Iron Maiden from 1978 until 1981, contributing his vocals to their self-titled debut album ‘Iron Maiden’, 1980, and their second record, ‘Killers’, 1981, both of which are considered crucial to the development of the heavy metal genre.
He was replaced by Bruce Dickinson in 1981, but his mark on the band and its legacy remains undeniable.
The announcement of Di’Anno’s death was also confirmed by his record label, Conquest Music, who posted on Facebook, “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.”
The statement did not specify the cause of death but acknowledged his long battle with severe health issues in recent years. Representatives confirmed the news to Fox News Digital.
Despite his health struggles, Di’Anno continued to perform and entertain fans, completing over 100 shows since 2023, often performing from a wheelchair.
In a 2023 interview with MB Live, Di’Anno spoke about his limited ability to tour due to his medical condition, saying that he had been “off the road for eight years” because his health issues made it impossible to fly.
In 2022, Di’Anno underwent a delayed knee surgery, which resulted in significant medical bills.
However, Iron Maiden stepped in to assist him financially. “They paid for the last couple of months’ worth of treatment,” Di’Anno revealed in the interview, expressing his deep gratitude for their support.
Paul Di’Anno’s time with Iron Maiden may have been brief, but his powerful vocals and raw energy helped shape the band’s early sound, making him an iconic figure in the world of heavy metal.
Following his departure from Iron Maiden, he embarked on a prolific and varied career, recording with bands such as Battlezone and Killers, as well as releasing numerous solo projects and making guest appearances on various albums.
The East London-born singer, whose career spanned over four decades, will be remembered for his significant contributions to heavy metal music and the indelible mark he left on Iron Maiden’s legacy.
