It's been announced that former Iron Maiden member Paul Di'Anno has passed away aged 66

Iron Maiden's Paul Di'Anno dies aged 66 after 'troubled' health battles

21 Oct 2024, 15:37 by Joel Leaver · Irish Mirror

Former Iron Maiden member Paul Di'Anno has passed away aged 66, it's been announced.

Paul is best known for having been the lead vocalist for the heavy metal band from 1978 to 1981. A statement issued on social media on a page for the singer on Monday announced his death and paid tribute. The statement, issued by his record label, on Facebook read: "On behalf of his family, Conquest Music are 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."

It further stated: "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 record label concluded: "Conquest Music are proud to have had [Paul] in our artist family and ask his legion of fans to raise a glass in his memory."

The news has prompted tributes on social media. One person responded to the post: "Rock in peace, Paul. Such a shame." Someone else commented: "RIP Paul. Leaving such a brilliant legacy and great live performances."

A third person reacted to the news: "You were a real rock star. You did an amazing job during the Iron Maiden first era. Your voice will be never forgotten." Whilst another fan commented: "So sad to hear. My condolences to the family." Someone else said: "Very sad news. Saw him live just a couple of months ago [...] Rockin' to the end."

It's been announced that former Iron Maiden member Paul Di'Anno (left), pictured with Dave Murray (centre) and Adrian Smith (right) in 1981, has passed away(Image: Ebet Roberts/Getty Images/Redferns)

Sharing their thoughts, one fan said on the platform: "RIP Paul. I would've seen you next Friday. Thank you for the music. Rock on wherever you are." Paying tribute, another person wrote in a comment: "Very sad news. Rest in peace, Paul. You'll always be loved and remembered."

Paul was a member of the award-winning band Iron Maiden for four years, having been the lead vocalist from 1978 to 1981. He was a member of the group alongside the likes of Steve Harris and Doug Sampson, who are both among the current line-up. The statement announcing his death noted: "He sang on their groundbreaking debut album Iron Maiden and the influential follow up release, Killers."

Following his departure from the group, Paul continued his recording career, including having been a member of other bands like Battlezone and Killers. He also released numerous albums as a solo artist in the years since his time with Iron Maiden. "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," the post added.

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