
Paul Di’Anno has sadly passed away after struggling with poor health for many years. Paul Di’Anno was 66 years old. Di’Anno was best known as the frontman for Iron Maiden from 1978 to 1981. During these years, he helped make history with The Soundhouse Tapes, Iron Maiden, Killers, and Maiden Japan.
Although he is most famous for his years with Iron Maiden, we should also remember his work with bands like Battlezone, Gogmagog, Killers, Architects of Chaoz, and most recently, Warhorse. A new Paul Di’Anno album was in the making, but recording was sadly never started.
Iron Maiden offers their condolences and writes on their Facebook page:
“We are all deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Paul Di’Anno earlier today. 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.
“It’s just so sad he’s gone,” comments Steve Harris. “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 .”
We were very grateful to have had the chance to catch up a couple of years ago and to spend time with him once more. On behalf of the band, Rod and Andy, and the whole Iron Maiden team, we extend our deepest sympathies to Paul’s family and close friends. Rest In Peace Paul.”
Writer and Paul Di’Anno’s manager Stepjan Juras wrote on his Facebook page:
“On behalf of his family, I am very sad to confirm the death of Paul Andrews, professionally known as Paul Di’Anno.
Paul passed away at his home in Salisbury at the age of 66.
Born in Chingford, East London on 17th May 1958, Paul first came to prominence as lead singer of English Heavy Metal band, Iron Maiden between 1978 and 1981. He sang on their groundbreaking debut album Iron Maiden, and the influential follow up release, Killers.
Since leaving Iron Maiden, Paul Di’Anno had a long and eventful recording career with Battlezone and Killers as well as numerous solo releases and guest appearances.
Despite being troubled by severe health issues in recent years that restricted him to performing in a wheelchair, Paul continued to entertain his fans around the world, racking up well over 100 shows since 2023.
In 2024 he published his new album with the band Warhorse, and only few month later his retrospective album.
His first career retrospective album, The Book of the Beast was released in September 2024 and featured highlights of his recordings since leaving Iron Maiden.
I was so proud to call him my friend and I ask his legion of fans to raise a glass in his memory.”
Blaze Bayley’s Facebook page:
“Very sad to hear of the death of my friend Paul Di’Anno.
Paul & I did quite a few tours & concerts together over the years… Sweden Rock, Ukraine, Australia, Scandinavia. He had a great sense of humour & those were crazy times.
His voice & his music with Iron Maiden & his own projects will live on.
Fondly remembered, sadly missed. RIP.”
Iron Maiden photographer Ross Halfin:
“Paul Di’Anno has left the stage. It really is a strange world. I hadn’t seen Paul in many years, but that early period of Iron Maiden is so classic and my memories are extremely fond. There was a great innocence around that period as we were all starting out at the same time – the stories are too numerous to go into , but I encourage everyone to put on Prowler today and play it loud. I’ve posted some more photos over on my site – link in bio.”