Iron Maiden vocalist Paul Di'Anno dies at 66, tributes pour in for his 'groundbreaking' metal music

SALISBURY, ENGLAND: Former Iron Maiden singer Paul Di'Anno, born Paul Andrews, has died at the age of 66.

His record label confirmed that the singer died at his home in Salisbury, Wiltshire on Monday, October 21.

Di'Anno, known for his powerful vocals during Iron Maiden's early years, was the frontman for the band between 1978 and 1981, lending his voice to their debut albums 'Iron Maiden' and 'Killers'.

Paul Di'Anno's early career with 'groundbreaking' debut for Iron Maiden

A statement from Conquest Music, released on behalf of Paul Di'Anno's family, also called "Paul Di", announced his death on Monday.

"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 at the age of 66," the statement said.

The statement further highlighted his role in Iron Maiden's early years, saying, "Born in Chingford, East London on 17th May 1958, Paul first came to prominence as lead singer of English Heavy Metal band, Iron Maiden between 1978 and 1981."

Di'Anno fronted the band for their first two albums, 'Iron Maiden' in 1980 and 'Killers' in 1981, before being replaced by Bruce Dickinson.

Iron Maiden 'deeply saddened' by Paul Di'Anno's death

Iron Maiden, consisting of Steve Harris, Dave Murray, Adrian Smith, Bruce Dickinson, Nicko McBrain, and Janick Gers is currently on a world tour.

The Future Past World tour is currently in the USA. In a statement, the band said, "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," they added.

"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," they wrote in the statement. 

“It’s just so sad he’s gone,” Steve Harris said, adding, “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," he said according to the statement. 

"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," the band added.

"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," the statement concluded. 

Paul Di'Anno's post-Iron Maiden career: Wheelchair-bound singer performs in over 100 shows since 2023

Although Paul Di'Anno is best known for his time with Iron Maiden, he had an extensive career after leaving the band.

"He sang on their groundbreaking debut album 'Iron Maiden', and the influential follow-up release, 'Killers'," according to the statement, as per Metro. 

He went on to perform in several other bands including Battlezone, Gogmagog, Killers, and Architects of Chaoz.

"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," according to the statement.

Despite battling "severe health issues in recent years", which led him to perform in a "wheelchair," Di'Anno continued to tour.

In 2023, Di'Anno performed from a wheelchair at his first UK concert in a decade, held at KK's Steelmill in Wolverhampton, England.

"Paul continued to entertain his fans around the world, racking up well over 100 shows since 2023," contained the statement.

In September 2024, Di'Anno released his first career retrospective album titled 'The Book of the Beast', which featured highlights from his post-Iron Maiden career.

"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," the statement concluded.

Fans mourn Paul Di'Anno's death, call it a 'sad day in Maiden and metal history'

Fans across social media have expressed their sorrow over Paul Di'Anno's death, with one writing on X (formerly Twitter), "I loved Paul era maiden. Sad news this. First saw them at a pub in London... They should retire Phantom of the opera in tribute."

Another added, "Wow, the old days. Yes, a sad day in Maiden and metal history."

Other fans shared personal memories of Di'Anno's performances, with one noting, "Never heard of Maiden the day I went to the concert in 81. Went to see Priest. But was blown away by Paul and Maiden. RIP ... Killers is my fav of all."

Many of his fans and followers have expressed their sadness, with one writing, "Sorry to hear of his passing—all the best to his family and friends..." and another sharing, "Great memories mate. Sad day."

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