Iron Maiden, the iconic English heavy metal band, originated in Leyton, East London, in 1975 under the visionary leadership of bassist and primary songwriter, Steve Harris.
Over the years, their lineup has evolved, but the core members have remained constant, featuring Steve Harris, lead vocalist Bruce Dickinson, drummer Nicko McBrain, and guitar virtuosos Dave Murray, Adrian Smith, and Janick Gers.
As trailblazers of the influential new wave of British heavy metal movement, Iron Maiden achieved remarkable success with a string of albums that achieved Platinum and Gold status in both the UK and the US. Notable releases include their debut album in 1980, “Killers” in 1981, and the game-changing “The Number of the Beast” in 1982, which marked Bruce Dickinson’s entrance as the lead vocalist, succeeding Paul Di’Anno. Dickinson’s inclusion marked a pivotal moment in their journey, solidifying their status as heavy metal luminaries. “The Number of the Beast” stands as one of the most revered heavy metal albums of all time, boasting nearly 20 million copies sold worldwide.
Following a period of turbulence during the 1990s, Iron Maiden’s resurgence commenced in 1999 with the triumphant return of Bruce Dickinson and guitarist Adrian Smith. This resurgence ushered in a new era of popularity, characterized by a series of acclaimed albums and immensely successful tours. Their latest triumvirate of albums — “The Final Frontier” (2010), “The Book of Souls” (2015), and “Senjutsu” (2021) — have all achieved the coveted No. 1 spot in more than 20 countries. Remarkably, Iron Maiden’s album sales have surpassed a staggering 130 million copies worldwide, accompanied by over 600 certifications attesting to their enduring impact.
Beyond their chart-topping achievements, the band and its members have garnered a multitude of prestigious industry accolades. These include Grammy Awards, Brit Awards, the Silver Clef Award, the Nordoff-Robbins Award, Ivor Novello Awards, Juno Awards, and entries in the Guinness Book of World Records. Their enduring legacy is further underscored by their inclusion in permanent exhibitions at renowned institutions such as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the British Music Experience, the Rock in Rio Wall of Fame, and the Wacken Open Air Hall of Fame. In a remarkable honor, Royal Mail UK commemorated Iron Maiden’s legacy in 2023 by issuing dedicated postal stamps and cards, cementing their place in the annals of music history.