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Paul Di'Anno, who was born Paul Andrews and became the first lead singer of Iron Maiden, has died at the age of 66. Di'Anno was a seminal figure in the early era of heavy metal, contributing significantly to the band's first two albums, *Iron Maiden* and *Killers*, which played a crucial role in defining the new wave of British heavy metal. His departure from the band in 1981 marked the end of an era, but his influence persisted in the genre.

Iron Maiden's current lineup paid their respects, expressing profound sorrow over his passing. Bassist Steve Harris shared on social media that it was "just so sad he's gone," noting that performing was a passion that kept Di'Anno invigorated until recently. Harris added, "He will be missed by us all. Rest in peace mate." The band's collective statement praised Di'Anno's immense contributions, highlighting that his pioneering role as the frontman had set Iron Maiden on a path that has lasted nearly five decades. They remarked that his impact would be fondly remembered by fans globally.

The news of Di'Anno's death was shared by Conquest Music, his record label, representing his family. They announced that he had "passed away at his home in Salisbury," though no cause of death was disclosed. The label expressed pride in having Di'Anno as part of their artist family and encouraged fans to honor him in memory.

Born in Chingford, east London, in 1958, Di'Anno immersed himself in music from a young age, singing with various bands while working as a butcher and a chef. His breakthrough came in 1977 when he connected with Steve Harris, the Iron Maiden bassist, who was on the lookout for a frontman for his burgeoning metal band. Di'Anno's audition won him the spot, and together they began carving out a unique sound amid the punk rock surge of their time.

Iron Maiden faced initial challenges in gaining gigs outside London, leading them to produce a demo tape known as the *Soundhouse Tapes*. The three-track demo, which sold 5,000 copies via mail order, garnered them a dedicated following. By 1979, Iron Maiden had secured a record deal with EMI and started working on their debut album, *Iron Maiden*. Despite its rushed production, the album's blend of punk intensity and rock riffs became a cornerstone for heavy metal in the 1980s, debuting at number four on the UK albums chart in April 1980.

Following that success, their second album, *Killers*, released in 1981, showcased an even harder sound. However, after a world tour, Di'Anno either exited or was dismissed from the band due to his excessive lifestyle, which he later admitted was not fair to the band or himself. Subsequently, Bruce Dickinson took over as lead vocalist, and Iron Maiden soared to greater heights with hits like "Run To The Hills" and "Can I Play With Madness."

Despite his departure, Di'Anno never harbored ill feelings towards his former bandmates or Bruce Dickinson. Dispelling rumors, he affirmed that he had been well-compensated for his contributions to Iron Maiden's early success. After his tenure with Iron Maiden, Di'Anno continued to influence the heavy metal scene, inspiring bands like Metallica, Pantera, and Sepultura. He persevered in the music world, performing both as a solo artist and as a member of bands such as Gogmagog, Battlezone, Praying Mantis, and Killers.