Paul Di’Anno sang on the first two albums of the heavy metal band Iron Maiden. He was then replaced by Bruce Dickinson. Now Di’Anno, who had long had health problems, has died.
The British heavy metal band Iron Maiden mourns the death of their former singer Paul Di’Anno. The frontman, who sang on the first two albums “Iron Maiden” and “Killers”, died at his home in Salisbury aged 66. His record company Conquest Records announced this on Monday evening, citing Di’Anno’s family. The musician had been struggling with health problems for a long time and recently performed concerts in a wheelchair.
Iron Maiden members ‘deeply dismayed’
“We are all deeply shocked,” Iron Maiden said in a statement. “Paul’s contribution to Iron Maiden was immense, setting us on the path we have been on as a band for almost five decades now. His pioneering presence as a frontman and vocalist, both on stage and on our first two albums, will not only Not only will we, but also fans around the world, have great memories.”
Paul Di’Anno was born in Chingford, east London. In 1978, bassist and bandleader Steve Harris brought him to Iron Maiden. The band initially caused a stir in the club scene. In 1980 the debut album “Iron Maiden” was released, with which the Brits became known throughout Europe and became leading representatives of the so-called New Wave of British Heavy Metal.
Separation due to excessive lifestyle
After the second album “Killers” the band separated from Di’Anno. He later admitted that his excessive lifestyle involving alcohol and drugs was the reason for the breakup. He was replaced by Bruce Dickinson, who is still there today with interruptions in the 90s.
Di’Anno began a solo career, which did not bring him much success, while Iron Maiden became one of the most successful heavy metal bands in music history. He also sang in the bands Battlezone and Killers. Di’Anno was married five times and had six children.
Steve Harris: “It’s just so sad”
He stayed in touch with his former bandmates until the end. “It’s just so sad that he’s gone,” Steve Harris said now. “We wrote to each other recently, it was about (our favorite football club) West Ham and the ups and downs. At least he performed whenever he could until shortly before his death. That’s what drove him. We will all be him “Rest in peace, buddy.”
Source: Stern
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