This article is fueled by my deep appreciation for Iron Maiden. It stems not from any disdain for Bruce Dickinson, but rather from the profound resonance that the band’s initial two albums with Paul Di’Anno left on me.
Within the past ten years, I shared a meaningful dialogue with Paul. I’ve always been proactive in my approach, believing that failure to try ensures defeat. It was through this mindset that a conversational lottery ticket materialized in the form of a cherished interaction with Paul.
Much to my astonishment, Paul replied in mere hours. We engaged in a warm chat about his anticipated musical trajectory while simultaneously acknowledging the uncertainties that our respective health challenges imposed on our careers.
Irrespective of your existing notions of Paul, I can personally attest to his kind heartedness. The conversation we shared was incredibly authentic, firmly grounded in our shared human experiences.
Iron Maiden was Steve Harris’ brainchild. The band had been a revolving door of talented individuals until finally Dave Murray, a formidable rock guitarist, and formidable drummer Doug Sampson joined the fray. The quest for the right vocalist led them to the unassuming Red Lion Pub where they fortuitously stumbled upon Paul Di’Anno.
Postulating on Paul’s aptitude, Steve Harris noted the distinctly raspy quality of Paul’s voice that brought a unique edge to their music. This was when Murray emerged as the solo guitarist, prompting Harris to acknowledge his ability to superbly carry the guitar sections single handedly. However, the vision of incorporating a second guitarist who could align with Murray’s skill was always challenging to actualize.
Iron Maiden set the foundation for what was to come with a demo they recorded on New Year’s Eve in 1978. Comprising four songs, this demo landed in the hands of Neal Kay, the manager of the renowned “Bandwagon Heavy Metal Soundhouse”. Eventually, it reached Rod Smallwood who soon became the band’s manager. As the band’s popularity soared, they released the demo as “The Soundhouse Tapes” on their own record label.
The release of the recording set ablaze the music industry, with an approximate 5,000 copies flying off the shelves within a month. This phenomenon culminated in a remarkable milestone as Iron Maiden inked a significant deal with EMI in December 1979.
Doug Sampson left due to health issues and was replaced by ex-Samson drummer Clive Burr and Guitarist Dennis Stratton joined.
Iron Maiden released their self-titled album in 1980. This was a headline tour of the UK, before opening for Kiss on their 1980 Unmasked Tour’s European leg. They were also supporting Judas Priest on select dates. Iron Maiden appeared, to much acclaim, at the Reading Festival 1980.
Dennis Stratton was dismissed from the band as a result of creative and personal differences and was replaced by Adrian Smith in October 1980. Maiden Played at the Rainbow Theatre in London.” Live at the Rainbow” was released in 1981 and the edits of songs “Iron Maiden” and “Wrathchild” received heavy rotation on MTV during its first hours on the air as the first metal videos ever.
Iron Maiden – Live At The Rainbow 1980
Iron Maiden seemed to bridge the gap between Metal and Punk, and Paul’s vocals were Brash to Beautiful. The Twin Guitar attack was a force to be reckoned with as well. Recently I read a statement in a Guitar group that the Fender Stratocaster was NOT capable of properly playing Metal, my response was two words. Dave Murray.
The Band worked like dogs, even to the present day they never rested on their laurels. Next came “Killers”.in 1981. Much of the songs were written before the first album was released.
Iron Maiden Killers live 1980(Paul Di’Anno)
The record was followed by the band’s first world tour, which included their debut performance in the United States, opening for Judas Priest. Iron Maiden played 45 shows in North America to several hundred thousand fans, including two headline gigs in Canada. Maiden booked 132 shows to promote their second album.
Musicians played the small or mid-size venues. Mostly using a standard type of stage equipment which included 200 lamps & smoke machines. Then two backdrops with Eddie, and four members of the crew wearing Eddie’s masks during the “Iron Maiden” song live performance.
Eddie The Head Iron Maiden Iron Maiden – Live in Milan, Italy, March 30th, 1981 [with Paul Di’Anno]
The cover illustration runs for cover Derek Riggs’s book became the first of much more iconic in the history of the genre. “Killers” sold much better worldwide than their debut, hitting the million mark a year after its release
The Band toured and recorded in Japan as well and the live album “Maiden Japan” was another huge success and quite the Historical document.
Iron Maiden – Maiden Japan (FULL ALBUM) By 1981, Paul Di’Anno was demonstrating increasingly self-destructive behavior, particularly due to his drug usage, about which Di’Anno comments, “it wasn’t just that I was snorting a bit of coke, though; I was just going for it non-stop, 24 hours a day, every day … the band had commitments piling up that went on for months, years, and I just couldn’t see my way to the end of it. I knew I’d never last the whole tour. It was too much.” With his performances waning, Di’Anno was immediately dismissed following the Killer World Tour, at which point the band had already selected his replacement. Enter Bruce Dickinson.
Funnily Paul avoided the whole “Devil’s Music” Robert Johnson and PMRC flack. Maiden’s next album with Bruce “ Number of the Beast” was the catalyst for that insanity to come.
If there were ill feelings at the time, time heals as Di’Anno now wishes Bruce and all continued success from the stage every time he has performed for many years
Paul Di’Anno aka ‘The Beast’ in Interview
I’ve compiled some footage finds here that are of various quality. I’m just glad to know cameras were rolling.
Iron Maiden is an all-time favorite of mine and I hope to see them as scheduled this year. To all, I wish you health and a mighty “UP THE IRONS!”
Flashback Interview: Paul Di’Anno (ex-Iron Maiden) 2001
The “Flashback Interview: Paul Di’Anno (ex-Iron Maiden) 2001” offers a glimpse into the past, revisiting the era when Paul Di’Anno was the frontman of Iron Maiden. Conducted in 2001, this interview provides valuable insights into Di’Anno’s time with the band, shedding light on his experiences, perspectives, and contributions to Iron Maiden’s early success. It serves as a nostalgic reminder of a significant chapter in the history of one of metal’s most influential bands, offering fans a chance to connect with the charismatic vocalist who helped shape Iron Maiden’s distinctive sound.
IRON MAIDEN – Live At Ruskin Arms (1980)
The iconic “IRON MAIDEN – Live At Ruskin Arms (1980)” concert stands as a pivotal moment in the band’s history. Held at the historic Ruskin Arms venue in 1980, this performance captured Iron Maiden at the cusp of their rise to heavy metal stardom. With their electrifying stage presence and raw energy, the band delivered a powerhouse performance, captivating the audience with their blistering riffs, thunderous drums, and Paul Di’Anno’s charismatic vocals. This show not only showcased Iron Maiden’s immense talent but also solidified their reputation as one of the most formidable live acts in the metal scene. The Ruskin Arms concert remains a cherished memory for fans and a testament to Iron Maiden’s enduring legacy in the realm of heavy metal music.
The Soundhouse Tapes Full Album
“The Soundhouse Tapes” full album holds a revered place in the annals of heavy metal history, serving as the seminal debut release of Iron Maiden. Recorded on New Year’s Eve in 1978, this demo epitomizes the raw energy and untamed talent that would propel Iron Maiden to legendary status. Comprising four tracks, including iconic songs like “Iron Maiden” and “Prowler,” the album showcases the band’s signature blend of aggressive riffs, thunderous rhythms, and Paul Di’Anno’s gritty vocals. With its DIY ethos and grassroots success, “The Soundhouse Tapes” not only laid the groundwork for Iron Maiden’s future triumphs but also solidified their position as pioneers of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal movement. This album remains a cherished artifact for fans, symbolizing the humble beginnings of one of metal’s most enduring and influential bands.
