Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden is a British heavy metal band that was formed in Leyton, East London, in 1975 by bassist and primary songwriter Steve Harris. They are considered one of the most influential and successful heavy metal bands in history, known for their powerful music and iconic mascot, “Eddie.” The band’s intense live performances, elaborate stage shows, and distinctive sound have cemented their status as legends in the world of heavy metal.
Members:
– Current members:
– Steve Harris (bass, backing vocals)
– Dave Murray (guitar)
– Adrian Smith (guitar, backing vocals)
– Bruce Dickinson (lead vocals)
– Nicko McBrain (drums)
– Janick Gers (guitar)
Notable Past Members:
– Paul Di’Anno (lead vocals)
– Clive Burr (drums)
– Dennis Stratton (guitar)
Iron Maiden has released a total of 16 studio albums, 12 live albums, four EPs, and numerous singles. They have sold over 100 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling heavy metal bands in history.
Albums:
1. Iron Maiden (1980)
2. Killers (1981)
3. The Number of the Beast (1982)
4. Piece of Mind (1983)
5. Powerslave (1984)
6. Somewhere in Time (1986)
7. Seventh Son of a Seventh Son (1988)
8. No Prayer for the Dying (1990)
9. Fear of the Dark (1992)
10. The X Factor (1995)
11. Virtual XI (1998)
12. Brave New World (2000)
13. Dance of Death (2003)
14. A Matter of Life and Death (2006)
15. The Final Frontier (2010)
16. The Book of Souls (2015)
Hits in the UK:
1. “Run to the Hills” (1982) – #7
2. “Wasted Years” (1986) – #18
3. “Bring Your Daughter… to the Slaughter” (1990) – #1
4. “Be Quick or Be Dead” (1992) – #2
5. “From Here to Eternity” (1992) – #5
6. “Fear of the Dark (Live)” (1993) – #8
7. “Virus” (1996) – #16
8. “The Wicker Man” (2000) – #9
9. “Out of the Silent Planet” (2000) – #20
10. “Wildest Dreams” (2003) – #6
11. “Rainmaker” (2003) – #13
12. “Different World” (2006) – #3
13. “The Reincarnation of Benjamin Breeg” (2006) – #6
14. “El Dorado” (2010) – #5
Iron Maiden has received numerous awards and accolades throughout their career, including a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance in 2011 for the song “El Dorado.” They have also been nominated for multiple Grammy Awards and have won numerous Metal Hammer Golden Gods Awards, Kerrang! Awards, and Brit Awards.
The band’s live shows are renowned for their high-energy performances and elaborate stage productions featuring their iconic mascot, Eddie. Over the years, Eddie has appeared in various forms on album covers, merchandise, and during their live shows, becoming a beloved symbol of the band.
Iron Maiden’s music is characterized by Harris’s galloping basslines, duelling guitar solos, and Dickinson’s operatic vocals. Their lyrics often explore historical, literary, and mythological themes, setting them apart from many other metal bands.
Despite undergoing several lineup changes over the years, Iron Maiden has maintained a loyal fan base and continues to tour and release new music. With their powerful anthems, energetic performances, and innovative music videos, Iron Maiden has left an indelible mark on the world of heavy metal and rock music.