He was the voice of the first twoIron Maiden albums. Paul Di'Anno, whose real name was Paul Andrews, died on Monday October 21, 2024 at the age of 66. This was announced by the British heavy metal band on its social networks.
" Paul's contribution to Iron Maiden was immense and helped set us on the path we've been on as a band for nearly five decades. His pioneering presence as leader and singer, both on stage and on our first two albums, will live long in our memories, but also in those of our fans around the world," the band members published in a joint message.
For the moment, the cause of death has not been revealed. But Paul Di'Anno had been suffering from health problems. In particular, the artist had contracted septicemia in Argentina in 2015. For several years, he had been using a wheelchair.
Born on May 17, 1958 in Chingford, East London, Paul Di'Anno joined Iron Maiden in 1978, giving the British band a more punk edge. In 1980, Iron Maiden released their first proper self-titled album, which quickly climbed up the British charts. Paul Di'Anno took part in the band's second album,"Killers", before finally being sacked in September 1981, mainly due to his drug abuse. Bruce Dickinson was chosen to replace him.
Despite his forced departure from Iron Maiden, Paul Di'Anno is not giving up music. Quite the opposite, in fact, as the British artist continues to work on various projects, such as with Gogmagog, Battlezone, Killers and Architects of Chaoz.
In December 2023, Paul Di'Anno was present at the Stock de Mennecy in Essonne, France, to give a concert during which the singer naturally covered a few classics recorded alongsideIron Maiden.
