Tributes Pour In for Former Iron Maiden Frontman Paul Di’Anno, Who Has Died at 66

Paul Di’Anno, the iconic former lead singer of heavy metal legends Iron Maiden, has sadly passed away at the age of 66. The news was confirmed through a heartfelt statement by Di’Anno’s record label, Conquest Music, which urged his dedicated fans to “raise a glass in his memory” during this difficult time.

Di’Anno joined Iron Maiden in 1978, contributing his powerful vocals to the band’s self-titled debut album and the follow-up, ‘Killers’. However, his journey with the band was cut short in 1981 due to his erratic behavior and struggles with substance abuse. He was subsequently replaced by Bruce Dickinson, the current frontman who has played a pivotal role in the band’s enduring success. Despite his departure, Di’Anno made several guest appearances with the band over the years, showcasing his lasting connection to their roots.

Following his exit from Iron Maiden, Di’Anno embarked on a solo career and collaborated with various bands, including Battlezone, Praying Mantis, and Killers. Even as he faced significant health challenges later in life, including lymphedema, a condition that leads to severe swelling, he continued to tour and perform, demonstrating his unwavering passion for music.

Iron Maiden took to social media platform X to pay tribute to Di’Anno, stating that his contributions to their early sound “helped set us on the path we have been traveling as a band for almost five decades.” They emphasized that his “pioneering presence” would be “fondly remembered not just by us, but by fans around the world.”

Steve Harris, the band’s bass player and founder, expressed his sorrow in the post, saying, “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.”

Many prominent figures in the heavy music scene, including Slash from Guns N’ Roses and the band Anthrax, have also shared their condolences and memories of Di’Anno, highlighting his significant impact on the genre.

• Slash: “A true pioneer of heavy metal.”
• Anthrax: “His voice defined a generation.”

In addition, a documentary chronicling the life and legacy of Paul Di’Anno is set to be released at the end of the year, promising to shed light on the man behind the music and his indelible mark on the heavy metal landscape.