Rock icon Paul Mario Day, widely recognized as the frontman of Iron Maiden, passed away in Australia.
Paul Mario Day, Pioneering Vocalist of Iron Maiden and British Heavy Metal, Passes Away
Paul Mario Day, a significant figure in the new wave of British heavy metal, passed away on 29 July 2025 at the age of 69. The cause and location of his death were not specified.
Day began his career in music as the first lead vocalist of Iron Maiden in December 1975, joining the band at the tender age of 19. He took part in the band's early live performances but was replaced by Dennis Wilcock due to a reported lack of stage charisma. Despite this, Day claimed co-authorship of the song "Strange World" on Iron Maiden’s 1980 debut album.
Following his departure from Iron Maiden, Day formed the band More, which was part of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM). More performed at the famous Donington Monsters of Rock Festival in 1981, solidifying Day's place in the history of British heavy metal.
Day's musical journey continued with the bands Wildfire (1983–1984) and Sweet, for whom he became lead vocalist in 1985. With Sweet, he recorded a live album at the Marquee Club in London in 1986. After relocating to Australia, he continued singing and writing for local bands such as Defaced (a cover band) and Crimzon Lake, a hard rock band. He also appeared as a guest musician on the Australian progressive metal band Buffalo Crows’ album Bovonic Empire.
In 2019, the original 1975 Iron Maiden lineup reunited for a concert in London with Day on vocals. The death of Day was described as peaceful by Andy Scott, a member of Sweet who announced the sad news. Iron Maiden also expressed their condolences for the passing of Day, who left a lasting mark on the music industry, particularly in British heavy metal.
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Celebrities from the music industry, including Paul Mario Day, left an indelible mark on the British heavy metal scene. His contributions, spanning from Iron Maiden to More, solidified his status as an entertainment icon of this genre.
