Iron Maiden frontman Paul Di’Anno has died aged 66. The news of his death was announced by his record label, Conquest Music, on behalf of his family.
“On behalf of his family, Conquest Music is saddened to confirm the passing of Paul Andrews, also known as Paul Di’Anno,” the company said in a statement. “Paul died at his home in Salisbury aged 66.
Born in Chingford, East London, on May 17, 1958, Paul Di Anno rose to prominence as the lead singer of English heavy metal band Iron Maiden between 1978 and 1981. He sang on their debut album. “Iron Maiden” and on the influential follow-up album titled “Assassins”.
His drug addiction caused Iron Maiden to kick him out of the band. He was replaced by Bruce Dickinson in late 1981 and became the voice of the band.
For years, Di Anno stubbornly refused to play Iron Maiden songs at his shows, despite public pleas. This led to the dissolution of the first band he formed after his departure from Iron Maiden.
After leaving Iron Maiden, he had a long and eventful recording career with them. Battle Zone and Assassinsas well as several solo releases and guest appearances.
Despite having suffered serious health problems in recent years that limited him to performing in a wheelchair, Paul continued to perform, counting more than 100 concerts in 2023.
The first retrospective album of his career, ‘The Book of the Beast’, was released in September 2024 and contained highlights of his recordings after leaving Iron Maiden.
Iron Maiden: Paul Di Anno’s “farewell”
With a photo of Steve Harris and a long message, Iron Maiden said goodbye to Paul Di Anno.
“We were deeply saddened to learn of Paul Di’Anno’s passing. Paul’s contribution to Iron Maiden was immense and helped us embark on the path the band has followed for almost 5 decades. His pioneering presence as a vocalist and vocalist, both on stage and on his first two albums, will be remembered not only by us, but also by fans around the world,” said the band.
“It’s so sad he’s gone,” Steve Harris said. “I got in touch with him recently and we texted about West Ham. At least he was playing until recently, that was something that gave him life, being where he could. We will all miss him. Rest in peace my friend,” Harris wrote.
Monday, October 21, 2024
We are all deeply saddened to learn of Paul Di’Anno’s passing earlier today. Paul’s contribution to Iron Maiden was immense and helped set us on the path we have been on as a band for almost five decades. His pioneering presence as… pic.twitter.com/pqskpLPBwc
-Iron Maiden (@IronMaiden) October 21, 2024
“We are grateful that we had the opportunity to meet again a few years ago and spend more time with him. On behalf of the band, Rod and Andy, and the entire Iron Maiden team, we send our condolences to Paul’s family and close friends. Rest in peace, Paul.”