Original Iron Maiden vocalist Paul Mario Day dies at age 69
Paul Mario Day, the original lead vocalist of the iconic heavy metal band Iron Maiden, passed away at the age of 69 in his Australian home. Although Day had been battling cancer, the exact cause of his death has not been disclosed. Beginning his career in music at a young age, Day joined Iron Maiden in 1975 when he was only 19 years old. However, his tenure with the band was short-lived, lasting just 10 months.
Reflecting on his time with Iron Maiden, Day mentioned how they were relatively unknown at the start, performing in small pubs with little recognition. Despite the challenges, Day and the band poured their hearts into their music, striving to captivate audiences and make a name for themselves in the music industry.
Following his departure from Iron Maiden, Day went on to front other notable bands like “More” and “Wildfire” before joining forces with guitarist Andy Scott and drummer Mick Tucker to form a new lineup of Sweet in 1985. Scott fondly remembered Day’s audition for the band, noting that his vocal talents immediately caught their attention. Their performances were met with great success, selling out venues in Australia and Europe. One of their most notable shows was the legendary Monsters of Rock festival in 1981 at Castle Donington, where they shared the stage with acclaimed artists like AC/DC and Whitesnake/David Coverdale.
Day’s impact on the music scene extended beyond his time with Iron Maiden, as he continued to play a significant role in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement. His contributions to albums like “Warhead” showcased his exceptional vocal abilities and solidified his position as a respected figure in British rock music.
The band More, in a statement shared on social media, paid tribute to Day, highlighting his legacy in the music industry and his memorable performances with various legendary artists. From touring with Iron Maiden and Def Leppard to headlining sold-out shows at prestigious venues like the Marquee in London, Day’s talent and passion for music left an enduring mark on fans and fellow musicians alike.
Paul Mario Day’s untimely passing has left a void in the music world, but his legacy as a pioneering vocalist and influential figure in heavy metal and rock music will continue to be celebrated and remembered by fans worldwide.