Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden, an English heavy metal band, was formed in Leyton, East London, in 1975 by bassist and primary songwriter Steve Harris. The band's discography has grown to forty-one albums, including sixteen studio albums, twelve live albums, four EPs, and seven compilations. Pioneers of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, Iron Maiden achieved initial success during the early 1980s. The highlight of their career came with the release of The Number of the Beast, which marked their debut at number one on the UK Albums Chart and became a Top Ten hit across many other countries.
Iron Maiden's lineup has seen several changes over the years, with Harris being the only constant member. The band's classic lineup was established in 1982 when Bruce Dickinson replaced Paul Di'Anno as lead vocalist and Nicko McBrain replaced Clive Burr on drums. Iron Maiden's distinctive sound is characterized by their fast-paced guitar solos, operatic vocal style, and narrative songwriting. Their lyrical themes often draw from mythology, history, literature, and film, contributing to their unique and enduring appeal in the heavy metal genre.
Despite undergoing several lineup changes and experiencing occasional dips in popularity, Iron Maiden has remained a major force in the global music scene. They have performed thousands of live shows around the world, influencing countless other bands and musicians. With over 100 million records sold worldwide, they are considered one of the most successful heavy metal bands in history. Their legacy extends beyond music, with the band's mascot, Eddie, becoming an iconic figure in the world of rock and metal. Iron Maiden's enduring influence and relentless dedication to their craft have cemented their place in the annals of music history.