Paul Di’Anno, the original lead singer of Iron Maiden, passed away at 66 due to a tear in the sac surrounding his heart, which filled with blood from his main aorta, causing his heart to stop. Di’Anno died suddenly at his home in Salisbury, England, on October 21, as confirmed by his family and record label, Conquest Music. Known for his role in Iron Maiden from 1978 to 1981, Di’Anno’s health had been compromised in recent years, leading him to perform in a wheelchair. Despite his health struggles, he continued to engage with fans, performing over 100 shows since 2023.
Following his passing, friends, family, and fans gathered at a tribute concert at Underworld Camden to honor his legacy. Iron Maiden’s current frontman, Bruce Dickinson, paid homage to Di’Anno, remembering him for his dedication to rock music and his “amazing voice.”
Di’Anno’s death came just a week after Iron Maiden announced a 50th-anniversary tour, a significant milestone for the band and its fanbase. The music world remembers Di’Anno for his unique impact on Iron Maiden’s early years, shaping the band’s heavy metal sound before his departure due to struggles with addiction.
