Paul Mario Day, Iron Maiden’s First Vocalist, Remembered as a “Lovely Person and Good Mate”.

Paul Mario Day, Iron Maiden’s First Vocalist, Remembered as a “Lovely Person and Good Mate”.

 

Paul Mario Day, an unsung architect of the band destined to become one of heavy metal’s titans, has died at 69. His passing, confirmed on July 29, 2025, was met with heartfelt tributes from Iron Maiden, his subsequent band MORE, and others in the rock community .

Recruited by bassist Steve Harris in late 1975 at just 19 years old, Day fronted what would become Iron Maiden during its infancy. He delivered vocals at their first-ever performance on May 1, 1976, at St. Nicholas Hall in Poplar—an event that marked a pivotal moment in rock history . Yet his tenure was short-lived; after about ten months, Day was dismissed—critically noted for a perceived lack of stage charisma and energy .

Despite his brief stint, Day’s legacy endured. In later reflections, he acknowledged that the setback served as a profound—if difficult—lesson in commanding presence on stage, ultimately shaping his career ethos .

After departing Iron Maiden, Day continued to contribute meaningfully to the New Wave of British Heavy Metal. He formed MORE in 1980, whose debut album Warhead (1981) earned admiration and landed them at the iconic Monsters of Rock festival alongside AC/DC and Def Leppard . He later fronted Wildfire in the early ’80s before assuming lead vocal duties for the glam‑rock revival of Sweet in 1985—a tenure marked by commercial highlights, including a top‑selling Live at the Marquee album .

In his final years, Day relocated to Australia, remaining active musically and living until his passing following a battle with cancer .

On July 30, 2025, Iron Maiden issued a moving statement via social media:

> “We are deeply saddened that Paul Mario Day, Iron Maiden’s first ever vocalist back in 1975, has passed away. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to Paul’s family and friends. Paul was a lovely person and good mate. Rest in peace Paul.”

His band MORE similarly conveyed admiration for his contribution to the metal movement and mourned the loss of a “huge part of the NWOBHM” . Andy Scott of Sweet echoed the sentiment, vividly recalling Day’s unforgettable audition and offering his own condolences .

Paul Mario Day’s story reminds us that even brief, early chapters can ignite entire careers and movements. Though his time with Maiden was fleeting, his impact on their genesis—and on the wider metal scene—resonates still. As Iron Maiden aptly put it, he was not just a vocalist; he was a “lovely person and good mate.”