Iron Maiden

Iron Maiden is one of the biggest heavy metal bands in history, known for their fast guitar work, long thematic songs, and iconic skeletal mascot, Eddie. The band was formed on Christmas Day in 1975 by bassist and main songwriter Steve Harris. Harris grew up in Leyton, East London. In the early days, the band cut their teeth playing local London pubs. Venues like the Cart & Horses in Stratford and the Ruskin Arms in Manor Park became legendary ground zero spots for their early concerts. That working-class, East End pub energy shaped their aggressive early style and gave rise to the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. The lineup went through constant changes during the late '70s. The band's classic history breaks down into a few distinct eras: 1980–1981 (The Early Days) Fronted by gritty vocalist Paul Di'Anno alongside Steve Harris, guitarist Dave Murray, guitarist Dennis Stratton, and drummer Clive Burr. Guitarist Adrian Smith joined shortly after to replace Stratton. They released their self-titled debut and Killers. 1982–1989 (The Bruce Dickinson years) Bruce Dickinson replaced Di'Anno on vocals, bringing an explosive, operatic style. Nicko McBrain took over on drums in 1982. This core five (Harris, Murray, Smith, Dickinson, McBrain) recorded timeless records like The Number of the Beast, Piece of Mind, and Powerslave. 1990–1998 (The Blaze Bayley years): Adrian Smith left in 1990 and was replaced by Janick Gers. Dickinson left in 1993 to pursue solo work and was replaced by Blaze Bayley for two albums. 1999–2024 (The Reunion & Trio Guitars): Both Dickinson and Smith rejoined the band in 1999, but Gers stayed on, expanding them into a unique three-guitar powerhouse. 2024 - Present - (Drummer replacement): Nicko McBrain retires from touring and is replaced by Simon Dawson, the drummer from the band British Lion of which Steve Harris is also a member. Following Nicko McBrains retirement from touring the current line up in 2026 is as follows: - Steve Harris – Bass - Dave Murray – Guitar - Adrian Smith – Guitar - Bruce Dickinson – Lead Vocals - Simon Dawson – Drums - Janick Gers – Guitar