Iron Maiden’s First Singer Paul Mario Day Dies at 69

Paul Mario Day, the original vocalist who contributed to shaping Iron Maiden in its early years, born on April 19, 1956, has passed away at the age of 69. The announcement was made by his former band More on July 29, 2025, following a lengthy battle with cancer. He died peacefully at home in Australia. 

When Paul joined Iron Maiden in December 1975, he was only 19 years old and the band was brand new. He sang for them at their first live performance in London in May 1976. But within ten months, he was gone - his presence on stage did not match what the band wanted. In later years, Paul expressed that it hurt him a lot, but that hurt also taught him to grow as a singer.

Paul Mario Day, the original vocalist of heavy rock titans Iron Maiden, has died aged 69.

Day’s death was announced by his former band More, who the vocalist joined after leaving Iron Maiden, in a social media message published on July 29th.

More below ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/tYRk73poKU

— Far Out Magazine (@FarOutMag) July 30, 2025

Bigger moments with the band More

In 1980, he co-founded the band More. Their album Warhead, released in 1981, became a fan favorite and they performed at the legendary Monsters of Rock festival alongside Queen-era AC/DC, Whitesnake, and Def Leppard. They will be cemented into heavy metal history with that performance.

A new chapter with Sweet and Wildfire

Paul also led various bands like Wildfire (1983 ‑ 84) and was also part of the resurrected lineup of Sweet in 1985, with Andy Scott and Mick Tucker. Their shows sold fast, especially in Australia and at the famous Marquee Club in London, which appeared on Paul’s live album Live at the Marquee, where listeners could hear Paul’s powerful vocals. 

Andy Scott said: “When Paul walked in to audition, we did not look any further, his vocal performance on Live at the Marquee has stood the test of time.” 

What Paul said about Maiden and what that taught him 

In a 2019 interview, Paul remembered Steve Harris, who wanted a frontman who was proper commanding on the stage.

He knew Maiden needed energy, charisma and character - none of which Paul admitted to having at the time. Learning it the hard way even if it hurt, it was a massive lesson that shaped his later voice and performance. 

Tributes from fans and musicians 

Tributes started pouring in straight away. Others wrote: 'Paul was a massive part of the NWOBHM … he put on memorable shows.' Andy Scott also expressed his condolences to all of Paul’s family and friends and said, 'today is a sad day for his many fans.'

A Fan on twitter wrote:

“Thank you for the hits! Protect him as he transitions...”

Thank you for the hits! Protect him as he transitions. pic.twitter.com/Lmhr4ugT7k

— 🥽 Sonique Saturday (@SoniqueSaturdy) July 30, 2025

Why this matters 

While Paul Mario Day never recorded vocal parts on official Maiden albums, his role in the early days of one of heavy metal's biggest bands helped pave the way for it's success. However, Day's continued work with More and Sweet helped keep him afloat in the metal scene, illustrating how initial struggles can lead to lasting legacies.