Metal legends Iron Maiden have paid tribute to their former frontman Paul Di'Anno, who has died aged 66. Speaking on social media, the band highlight Di'Anno's "pioneering" role as their singer from 1978 until his departure in 1981, with Maiden founder, bassist and lead songwriter Steve Harris revealing that he had been speaking with Di'Anno in recent weeks.
"We are all deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Paul Di'Anno earlier today," the band's statement reads. "Paul's contribution to Iron Maiden was immense and helped set us on the path we have been travelling as a band for almost five decades. His pioneering presence as a frontman and vocalist, both on stage and on our first two albums, will be very fondly remembered not just by us, but by fans around the world."
