Iron Maiden singer Paul Di’Anno dies at just 66 after ‘troubled’ health battles

Former Iron Maiden member Paul Di’Anno has died aged 66, his record label announced in a statement issued on social media, prompting tributes from fans this week

The band Iron Maiden have paid tribute to former bandmate Paul Di’Anno following his death at the age of 66.

Paul is best known for having been the lead vocalist for the heavy metal band from 1978 to 1981. Statement issued on social media on Monday announced his death and paid tribute to him.

A post on Iron Maiden’s social media reads: “We are all deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Paul Di’Anno earlier today. 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.”

It added: “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.”

Whilst a statement issued by Paul’s 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 (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.