Former Iron Maiden Vocalist Paul Di’Anno Passes Away At 66

OAN Staff Brooke Mallory
3:58 PM – Monday, October 21, 2024

Former Iron Maiden member Paul Deano died on Monday at the age of 66, according to his family.

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Paul Andrews, known by his stage name Paul Deano, died at his home in Salisbury, Wiltshire, after battling a number of health problems.

The cause of death was not disclosed, but he had suffered from health problems for many years. Deano has been using a wheelchair since undergoing knee surgery in 2022, and had a weakened immune system after suffering from sepsis nine years ago.

He fronted the band on the albums Iron Maiden (1980) and Killers (1981) before current vocalist Bruce Dickinson took over.

“On behalf of the family, Conquest Music regrets the passing of Paul Andrews, known professionally as Paul Deano. Paul passed away at his home in Salisbury at the age of 66,” the statement began.

“Born on 17 May 1958 in Chingford, East London, Paul first came to prominence as the lead singer of British heavy metal band Iron Maiden from 1978 to 1981. He sang on his breakthrough debut album, “Iron Maiden,'' and also sang on his seminal follow-up, “Iron Maiden.'''', Murderer. Since leaving Iron Maiden, Paul Di'Anno has had a long and eventful recording career with bands like Battlezone and the Killers, as well as numerous solo releases and guest appearances. Despite suffering serious health issues in recent years that have limited his ability to perform from a wheelchair, Paul continues to entertain fans around the world, performing well over 100 shows since 2023. 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. Conquest Music is proud to have Paul Di'Anno join our family of artists and invites all of his fans to raise a glass in his memory.”

Paul left the heavy metal band in 1981 after developing a severe cocaine addiction.

“We weren't just smoking a few cokes, we were doing it non-stop 24/7…The band had so many commitments that we couldn't see a way through.” He previously admitted.

Founded in London's East End in 1975, Iron Maiden has sold more than 110 million records across 17 studio albums.

Current members of Iron Maiden also released a statement.

“We are all deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Paul Di'Anno earlier today. Paul's contribution to Iron Maiden was immeasurable and he continues on our journey as a band for almost 50 years. His pioneering presence both on stage and on our first two albums as a frontman and vocalist will be fondly remembered by us and fans around the world. We met again a few years ago and are so grateful to have had the opportunity to spend time with him again. On behalf of the band, Rod and Andy, and the entire Iron Maiden team, we are very grateful to have had the opportunity to meet him again several years ago. , we extend our deepest condolences to Paul's family and close friends. We pray for Paul's repose in peace,” their statement read.

Paul has six children from five previous marriages.

The band, whose current members include Adrian Smith, Bruce Dickinson, Steve Harris, Dave Murray, Nikko McBrain and Janick Gers, have announced their 50-member list.^th The anniversary tour took place one week before the tragic news of Paul's passing. From May 27th^th In Budapest, Hungary, the group will perform at 27 stadiums, festivals, and arena events across the continent.