Paul Di’Anno, former frontman for iconic heavy metal band Iron Maiden, passed away last month at the age of 66 in Salisbury, England, a spokesperson revealed.
Fox News reported that Di'Anno's demise was attributed to a cardiac complication, specifically a tear in the membrane around his heart, which led to heart failure.
The revelation of his cause of death was made public through a social media post following the completion of an autopsy.
The post shared on Facebook mentioned that Di'Anno's departure from this world was sudden, and his loved ones hoped it was without discomfort. The autopsy results were released with the consent of Di'Anno's family, as confirmed by his representatives.
Di'Anno, born Paul Andrews on May 17, 1958, in Chingford, East London, achieved fame as the lead vocalist for Iron Maiden.
His tenure with the band spanned from 1978 to 1981, during which he was the powerful voice behind the band's first two albums, "Iron Maiden" and "Killers."
These albums laid the groundwork for Iron Maiden’s ascent in the heavy metal scene, introducing their aggressive and distinctive sound to audiences worldwide. Paul Di'Anno’s raw vocal style and dynamic stage presence significantly contributed to the band's early success.
Despite his profound influence on the world of metal music, Di'Anno faced numerous health setbacks in the latter part of his life.
During the 2010s, he encountered several medical challenges, including undergoing knee surgery in 2014 and grappling with a non-malignant lung abscess. These issues gradually had an impact on his mobility.
Yet, his passion for performance remained unwavering. Even as his health fluctuated, Di'Anno managed to perform over 100 shows since the start of 2023, often taking to the stage in a wheelchair. This nuptial point reflects his dedication to his craft and his fans, continuing to deliver powerful performances despite physical limitations.
Following his passing, family, friends, and fans celebrated his life through various tributes. A heartfelt farewell was organized at Underworld Camden, London, bringing together those who appreciated his contribution to music. Cheryl and Michelle, his sisters, detailed the specifics surrounding his passing, stating that "a tear in the sac" surrounding his heart resulted in the fatal event.
His representatives, Conquest Music, also paid homage to his legacy and urged his devoted supporters to honor his memory. "On behalf of his family," they noted, "Conquest Music are sad to confirm the death of Paul Andrews," whom the world knew as Paul Di’Anno.
In conversations with Classic Rock, Di’Anno openly discussed his challenging journey with health.
Recounting an alarming episode, he shared how a scan post-collapse revealed a substantial “black shadow” on his lungs. Though initially thought life-threatening, it was identified as a non-malignant abscess.
He reflected on this experience as both shocking and a wake-up call, expressing a mix of fortune and misfortune over recent hardships.
"I suppose I’m pretty damn lucky," Di’Anno admitted, emphasizing resilience amid adversity.
As fans and the music industry come to terms with his passing, it is evident that Paul Di’Anno's impact on heavy metal will endure. His contributions helped shape the genre, setting a template others would follow. Fans continue to honor him, celebrating his life and artistic legacy through raised glasses and unwavering remembrance.
The world bids farewell to a legendary figure whose name remains synonymous with one of the most groundbreaking bands in heavy metal history. May Paul Di'Anno rest in peace, his voice forever resonating with those who live and breathe metal music.
