Paul Di’Anno, the original lead singer of Iron Maiden, has passed away at age 66, according to a statement from his label, Conquest Music, on behalf of his family. The cause of death has not been disclosed, though Di’Anno had been battling illness for several years.
Di’Anno served as Iron Maiden’s vocalist from 1978 to 1981, contributing to the band’s first two albums, Iron Maiden and the legendary Killers. After leaving the band, he was replaced by Bruce Dickinson, who remains the frontman to this day.
Following his departure, Di’Anno led the bands Battlezone and Killers, releasing multiple solo projects. Despite significant health challenges, he performed over 100 concerts since 2023, defying the odds. His final retrospective album, The Book of the Beast, was released in September 2024, showcasing highlights from his post-Maiden career.
The official statement reads: “On behalf of his family, Conquest Music are sad to confirm the death of Paul Andrews, professionally known as Paul Di’Anno, at his home in Salisbury at the age of 66. Despite his health struggles, Paul continued to perform for his fans, and we ask his legion of supporters to raise a glass in his memory.”
Di’Anno’s powerful vocals shaped early Iron Maiden tracks like “Running Free” and “Sanctuary.” While there were reports of tension with band founder Steve Harris and manager Rod Smallwood at the time of his exit, Di’Anno later denied these claims, standing by his record and performance legacy.