Former Iron Maiden Singer Paul Di’Anno Dead at Age 66

Former Iron Maiden singer Paul Di’Anno, who appeared on the band’s first two albums, has died at age 66

Paul Di'Anno of Iron Maiden Dead at Age 66

Former Iron Maiden singer Paul Di’Anno has died at age 66.

His death was confirmed by Conquest Music on behalf of his family. The record label shared that Di’Anno died at his home in Salisbury, England. No cause of death was provided.

“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,” read the statement, released via Facebook on Monday, October 21. “He sang on their groundbreaking debut album ‘Iron Maiden,’ and the influential follow up release, ‘Killers.’”

The statement continued, “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.”

The statement noted that he released his “first career retrospective album” titled The Book of the Beast in September, which featured “highlights of his recordings since leaving Iron Maiden.”

“Conquest Music are proud to have had Paul Di’Anno in our artist family and ask his legion of fans to raise a glass in his memory,” the statement concluded.

Paul Di'Anno of Iron Maiden Dead at Age 66 — Courtesy of Paul Di’Anno/Instagram

Di’Anno was the lead singer of Iron Maiden from 1978 until he left the band in 1981. He was replaced by Bruce Dickinson, who has remained in the band.

Di’Anno continued to pursue a career in music and had been performing in a wheelchair due to health issues. BBC reported that Di’Anno suffered from lymphedema, which causes a swelling of body tissue.

Iron Maiden shared in a statement on Monday that they are “deeply saddened” about Di’Anno’s death.

“Paul’s contribution to Iron Maiden was immense and helped set us on the path we have been traveling as a band for almost five decades,” read the statement, shared via X on Monday. “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.”

Iron Maiden bassist Steve Harris said in the statement that it’s “just so sad” that Di’Anno is “gone.” He added, “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.”

The statement from Iron Maiden noted that they “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,” the statement concluded. “Rest In Peace Paul.”