Paul Di’Anno, former singer of metal band Iron Maiden, has passed away at the age of 66.
Di’Anno was the band’s lead singer from 1978 to 1981 and sang on the group’s debut album as well as its follow-up album. Killer. He was eventually replaced by Bruce Dickinson, who remained the band’s leader since his introduction. His passing was announced in a statement from his family.
“On behalf of his family, Conquest Music is saddened to confirm the passing of Paul Andrews, professionally known as Paul Di’Anno,” said the statement released by Diversity speak.
“Paul died at his home in Salisbury at the age of 66. Born in Chingford, East London on 17 May 1958, Paul first rose to fame as the lead singer of the British Heavy Metal band, Iron Maiden from 1978 to 1981. He followed up their groundbreaking debut album Iron Maiden and the seminal follow-up release, Killers,” it continued.
No cause of death has been given at this time, although the newspaper reported that Di’Anno had been struggling with illness for several years. After his years with Iron Maiden, Di’Anno became the frontman of the bands Battlezone and Killers, and released several solo albums.
“Conquest Music is proud to have Paul Di’Anno in our family of artists and ask his legions of fans to raise a glass in his memory,” the statement concluded.
Iron Maiden has since paid tribute to Di’Anno in a post on the group’s social media accounts.
“We were all extremely saddened to learn of the passing of Paul Di’Anno earlier today. Paul’s contributions to Iron Maiden were immeasurable and helped set us on the path on which we has been around as a band for nearly five decades. His pioneering presence as a frontman and vocalist, both on stage and on our first two albums, me, will be deeply missed not only by us but also by fans around the world,” they said.
“We are so grateful to have had the opportunity to meet him again a few years ago and spend time with him again. On behalf of the band, Rod and Andy and the entire Iron Maiden team, we thank Deepest sympathy to Paul’s family and close friends. Rest in peace, Paul,” the group added.
Although health problems have kept him unwell in recent years, he has still managed to perform more than 100 shows since 2023, at times even having to take the stage in a wheelchair. He still plans to perform in 2025.
Tags Iron Maid, Deceased