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Paul Di'Anno: Iron Maiden 'deeply saddened' after former singer's death | Ents & Arts News

Paul Di'Anno: Iron Maiden 'deeply saddened' after former singer's death | Ents & Arts News
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Members of heavy metal band Iron Maiden said they were “deeply saddened” by the death of their former bandmate Paul Di'Anno.

Di'Anno sang with the British band between 1978 and 1981 and was featured on their self-titled debut album and follow-up Killers – with songs such as “Running Free”, “Sanctuary” and “Remember Tomorrow”.

His death was announced by the record label Conquest Records on behalf of his family on Monday.

He died at the age of 66 at his home in Salisbury, it said.

A statement released on Iron Maiden The official X account said: “We are all deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Paul Di'Anno today.”

“Paul’s contribution to Iron Maiden was immense and helped set us on the path we have followed as a band for almost five decades.”

“His groundbreaking presence as a frontman and vocalist, both on stage and on our first two albums, will be fondly remembered not only by us, but by fans around the world.”

“On behalf of the band, Rod and Andy and the entire Iron Maiden team, we extend our deepest condolences to Paul’s family and close friends. Rest in peace, Paul.”

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Steve Harris, bassist and founder of Iron Maiden, was quoted as saying, “It's just so sad that he's gone.”

**FILE PHOTO** Paul Di'Anno has passed away. NEW YORK CITY - NY JULY 23: Paul Di'Anno of Iron Maiden performs at the Palladium during the Killers Tour as the opening act for Judas Priest on July 23, 1981 in New York City, New York. Photo credit: mpi04/MediaPunch /IPX
Picture:
Di'Anno in 1981. Image: mpi04/MediaPunch/IPX via AP

He said he spoke with Di'Anno recently and added: “At least he was still performing until recently, being out there whenever he could was something that kept him going.”

“We will all miss him. Rest in peace, buddy.”

**FILE PHOTO** Paul Di'Anno has passed away. NEW YORK CITY - NY JULY 23: Paul Di'Anno, Steve Harris and Dave Murray of Iron Maiden perform at the Palladium during The Killers Tour as opening act for Judas Priest on July 23, 1981 in New York City, New York. Photo credit: mpi04/MediaPunch /IPX
Picture:
Di'Anno, Steve Harris and Dave Murray of Iron Maiden during the Killers Tour. Image: AP

Di'Anno was known for his aggressive voice, which gave the band a more punk-like sound.

He had to miss most of his first Iron Maiden show after being arrested for carrying a knife.

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In 1981 he was released from the band due to his erratic behavior and drug use. He was replaced by Bruce Dickinson, the group's current vocalist, but continued to appear as a guest.

After leaving the band, Di'Anno recorded a number of solo albums and performed as part of other bands including Battlezone and Killers.

He married five times and had six children.

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