British heavy metal singer Paul Di'Anno, of the group Paul Di'Anno's Killers, during a rehearsal in New York on December 1, 1990. Photo: Getty Images
Paul Di’Anno’s voice drove heavy metal band Iron Maiden to prominence, but his self-destructive behaviour meant that he never got to enjoy their fame. Di’Anno sang with the British band from 1978-81, a span which included Iron Maiden’s self-titled debut album and its follow-up Killers. Di’Anno was known for his aggressive voice, which gave the band a more punk-style sound, but he was also a trouble magnet: he was forced to miss most of his debut Iron Maiden show after being arrested for carrying a knife. In 1981 he was fired from the band due to his unpredictable behaviour and drug usage. He was replaced by Bruce Dickinson, the group’s current singer, but continued to make guest appearances. Di’Anno recorded a number of solo albums and performed as part of other bands including Battlezone and Killers. He died on October 21, aged 66 — ODT, Agencies
