Watch Iron Maiden Pause Concert to Honor Late Singer Paul Di’Anno

Having gone through a few lineup changes over the decades, Iron Maiden once welcomed singer Paul Di’Anno to the stage. Part of the band from 1978 to 1981, the singer helped fashion albums like Iron Maiden and Killers. Sadly, the singer parted ways with the group but continued to showcase his love for heavy metal with a promising solo career. Spending time with other bands like Killers, Warhorse, and Battlezones, on October 21st, the singer passed away at 66 years old. Wanting to honor his legacy with the band, singer Bruce Dickinson recently paused a concert to remember the former singer. 

While performing at the Xcel Energy Center in Minnesota, Dickinson stopped the concert to discuss the passing of Di’Anno. He told the crowd,  “I don’t wanna put a downer on the proceedings at all, because our friend, our bandmember Paul Di’Anno passed away, as you are probably aware. And if you’re not aware of that fact, you are now.” He continued, “Paul was instrumental in the first two albums, groundbreaking with ‘Killers’ and the first album. An amazing voice, devoted to rock and roll right up till the last minute of his life.”

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Paul Di’Anno Continued To Perform After Iron Maiden

Having such an impact on heavy metal, Dickinson used the moment to remember just how precious life is. “I’m just gonna ask everybody to just take like a few seconds to just close your eyes in silence and say, just internally, mentally — if you believe in God, if you don’t believe in God, it actually doesn’t matter; just believe in what you believe in and just say, ‘Thanks, boss, for doing what you did.’”

Ending his speech, Dickinson called out to Di’Anno. “So, Paul, if you’re listening, this is a little message from Minneapolis to wherever you are, upstairs or downstairs, Minneapolis, for Paul Di’Anno, scream for me.”  

Although struggling with his health over the last few years, Di’Anno continued to perform. Even when placed in a wheelchair, the rockstar never quit as he performed over 100 shows just last year. While passing away, his legacy in heavy metal will always be remembered.

(Steve Johnston/Shutterstock)