Why was Paul Mario Day replaced as the original Iron Maiden frontman: Cause of Death and Legacy
Paul Mario Day, the original lead singer of Iron Maiden, has sadly passed away at the age of 69 after a prolonged illness, with reports indicating he had been battling cancer, although an official cause of death has not been confirmed by his family. Despite his short tenure with the band, Day’s early contributions were instrumental in shaping the New Wave of British Heavy Metal movement. Following his time with Iron Maiden, Day continued to make significant contributions to the UK rock and metal scenes by working with other bands like More, Sweet, and Wildfire.
Day’s journey with Iron Maiden began in late 1975 when he was recruited as the band’s first lead vocalist by bassist Steve Harris. His inaugural live performance with the band occurred on May 1, 1976, at St Nicholas Hall in Poplar, which was followed by a residency in nearby Stratford. However, after approximately ten months, Day was dismissed from the band. Harris reportedly felt that Day lacked the stage presence necessary to propel the band to greater success. In hindsight, Day acknowledged the feedback from Harris, agreeing with the sentiment but expressed uncertainty about how to embody the commanding presence required. Following his departure, Dennis Wilcock, Paul Di’Anno, and eventually Bruce Dickinson took over as the frontmen for Iron Maiden, contributing to its eventual rise to global stardom.
In the aftermath of his time with Iron Maiden, Day went on to form the band More in 1980, becoming a recognizable figure in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal movement. More released the album “Warhead” and performed at the prestigious Monsters of Rock festival at Donington Park in 1981. They also had the opportunity to support Iron Maiden during the Killers tour. Day later fronted Wildfire before joining the re-formed version of the glam-rock band Sweet, led by Andy Scott. Scott fondly recalled that at Day’s audition, “We looked no further.” Day quickly became a prominent figure in live music and retained a devoted fan base.
Throughout the mid-1980s, Day relocated to Australia, where he continued to be involved in the music scene with bands like Defaced and Buffalo Crows until his final years before succumbing to his illness. He spent his last days in Newcastle, New South Wales, and is survived by his wife, Cecily.
Day’s passing on July 29, 2025, marked a significant loss within the music community. Tributes poured in from various corners, with Iron Maiden remembering him as “a lovely person and a good mate.” More also honored his contribution, highlighting his impact within the NWOBHM scene and reminiscing about his memorable performances. Andy Scott emphasized Day’s natural fit for Sweet from the moment he auditioned.
Although Day never recorded a studio album with Iron Maiden, his place in the band’s early narrative solidifies his place in heavy metal history. His involvement with bands like More, Wildfire, and Sweet, along with his festival appearances and live shows, played a pivotal role in shaping the British rock scene. Day’s legacy lives on, revered by fans and music historians alike for his early influence on one of the UK’s most iconic metal acts. His passing marks the end of an era, commemorating a musician whose early work paved the way for future generations of heavy metal artists.