SALISBURY, United Kingdom — Paul Di’Anno, who was the original lead singer for the heavy metal band Iron Maiden, has died at the age of 66.
A statement from Conquest Music says Di’Anno died at his home in Salisbury.
Di’Anno, whose real name was Paul Andrews, was the singer for Iron Maiden from 1978 to 1981 and performed on the group’s first two albums, “Iron Maiden” and “Killers.” He co-wrote the band’s first single, “Running Free,” and the title track of “Killers.” Di’Anno was replaced by Bruce Dickinson after leaving the band in 1981.
“We are all deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Paul Di’Anno earlier today,” says a statement from the band on social media. “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. 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.”
After leaving Iron Maiden, Di’Anno released several solo recordings and also performed with multiple bands, including as Gogmagog, Di’Anno’s Battlezone, Killers, Rockfellas, and Warhorse.
He had been dealing with “severe health issues” in recent years, according to the statement from Conquest, but continued to perform while in a wheelchair. The statement says Di’Anno performed in “well over 100 shows” since 2023.
“It’s just so sad he’s gone,” Iron maiden founder Steve Harris said in a statement. “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.”