The original singer of the popular 1980s heavy metal band has died aged 66

SALISBURY, United Kingdom – Paul Di'Anno, the original lead singer of heavy metal band Iron Maiden, has died at the age of 66.

A statement from Conquest Music said Di'Anno died at his home in Salisbury.

Di'Anno, whose real name was Paul Andrews, was Iron Maiden's singer from 1978 to 1981 and appeared 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 from “Killers.” Di'Anno was replaced by Bruce Dickinson after he left the band in 1981.

“We are all deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Paul Di'Anno today,” the band said in a statement on social media. “Paul's contribution to Iron Maiden was immense and helped set us on the path we have been on as a band for almost five decades. His groundbreaking presence as a frontman and vocalist, both on stage and on our first two albums, will be fondly remembered not only by us, but by fans around the world.”

After leaving Iron Maiden, Di'Anno released several solo recordings and also performed with several bands including Gogmagog, Di'Anno's Battlezone, Killers, Rockfellas and Warhorse.

According to Conquest's statement, he had struggled with “serious health problems” in recent years but continued to perform in a wheelchair. The statement said Di'Anno has appeared in “well over 100 shows” since 2023.

“It’s just so sad that he’s gone,” Iron Maiden founder Steve Harris said in a statement. “I only recently had contact with him when we wrote to each other about West Ham and its ups and downs. At least he was still performing until recently, being outside whenever he could was something that kept him going. We will all miss him. Rest in peace, buddy.”