Iron Maiden's Paul Di'Anno dies aged 66 as heavy metal community mourns

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Former Iron Maiden vocalist Paul Di'Anno has died at the age of 66, his record label confirmed.

Known for fronting the iconic heavy metal band from 1978 to 1981, Di'Anno's passing was announced on a social media page dedicated to him on Monday. The statement released by Conquest Music on Facebook said: "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 went on to say: "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, reports the Mirror.

"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."

Fans have been expressing their sorrow and paying homage to the late singer online. One fan wrote: "Rock in peace, Paul. Such a shame."

Another shared: "RIP Paul. Leaving such a brilliant legacy and great live performances."

A third tribute read: "You were a real rock star. You did an amazing job during the Iron Maiden first era. Your voice will be never forgotten."

Meanwhile, another admirer stated: "So sad to hear. My condolences to the family."

And one more fan reflected: "Very sad news. Saw him live just a couple of months ago [...] Rockin' to the end."

Devastated fans have taken to social media to express their sorrow over the passing of Paul, with one fan posting: "RIP Paul. I would've seen you next Friday. Thank you for the music. Rock on wherever you are."

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Another heartfelt tribute read: "Very sad news. Rest in peace, Paul. You'll always be loved and remembered."

Paul contributed significantly to Iron Maiden's early success as their frontman from 1978 to 1981, working alongside band members including Steve Harris and Doug Sampson, who remain with the band today. The announcement of his passing highlighted his contributions: "He sang on their groundbreaking debut album Iron Maiden and the influential follow up release, Killers."

After leaving Iron Maiden, Paul forged ahead with his career in music, joining bands such as Battlezone and Killers, and he continued to release albums as a solo artist.

Fans recall the publication of his retrospective collection in September 2024, titled the Book of the Beast, which encompassed the best of his post-Iron Maiden work.

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