Paul Di’Anno Dies: Iron Maiden’s First Singer 66

Paul Di’Anno, the lead singer of Iron Maiden from 1978 to 1981 which included the heavy metal band’s first two albums, died in England today after suffering ill health in recent years. He was 66.

His death was announced on the band’s Instagram page.

“We are all deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Paul Di’Anno earlier today,” the band said in a statement. “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.

“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.”

Steve Harris, the band’s cofounder and bassist, said, “It’s just so sad he’s gone. 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.”

Di’Anno sang on the band’s self-titled 1980 debut album and its 1981 follow-up Killers, which included the singles “Purgatory” and “Twilight Zone.” Clashes with other members of the band, reportedly due to Di’Anno’s increasing use of drugs and alcohol, led to the singer’s dismissal following the second album. He was replaced by vocalist Bruce Dickinson, who remains with the band to this day.

During his post-Maiden career, Di’Anno, born Paul Andrews in London on May 17, 1958, fronted heavy metal bands including Killers, Gogmagog, Di’Anno’s Battlezone, Rockfellas and most recently Warhorse.

Despite ill health and use of a wheelchair in recent years, Di’Anno continued to perform. A career retrospective album called The Book of the Beast was released last month.

Complete information on survivors was not immediately available.