Iron Maiden 80 81: The Early Years of a Heavy Metal Powerhouse

Iron Maiden's early years, from 1980 to 1981, were a time of rapid growth and success for the heavy metal band. This article takes a look back at those formative years, examining the band's early sound, lineup changes, and key performances that helped to establish them as one of the most popular and influential metal bands of all time.

Iron Maiden: '80 '81

by Greg Prato

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3969 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	220 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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The Early Sound

Iron Maiden's early sound was heavily influenced by the new wave of British heavy metal (NWOBHM) movement of the late 1970s. Bands like Judas Priest, Saxon, and Motörhead had helped to popularize a more aggressive and energetic style of heavy metal, and Iron Maiden quickly adopted this sound. Their early songs, such as "Running Free" and "Iron Maiden," featured fast tempos, galloping bass lines, and soaring guitar solos.

In addition to their NWOBHM influences, Iron Maiden also drew inspiration from classic rock bands such as Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple. These influences can be heard in the band's epic songwriting and their use of complex guitar harmonies.

Lineup Changes

Iron Maiden's early years were also marked by a number of lineup changes. The band's original lineup consisted of vocalist Paul Di'Anno, guitarists Dave Murray and Dennis Stratton, bassist Steve Harris, and drummer Clive Burr. However, Di'Anno was fired from the band in 1981 due to his excessive drinking and drug use. He was replaced by Bruce Dickinson, who would go on to become one of the most iconic heavy metal singers of all time.

Stratton was also fired from the band in 1981, and was replaced by Adrian Smith. Smith's arrival helped to solidify Iron Maiden's sound, and he would go on to become one of the band's most important members.

Key Performances

Iron Maiden's early years were also marked by a number of key performances that helped to establish them as one of the most popular metal bands in the world. In 1980, the band played at the Reading Festival, which was one of the most important heavy metal festivals of the time. Their performance at the festival was a huge success, and helped to introduce them to a wider audience.

In 1981, Iron Maiden released their debut album, Iron Maiden. The album was a critical and commercial success, and helped to solidify the band's status as one of the most important bands in heavy metal. The album featured a number of classic tracks, including "The Trooper," "Phantom of the Opera," and "Run to the Hills."

Iron Maiden's early years were a time of rapid growth and success for the band. Their early sound, lineup changes, and key performances helped to establish them as one of the most popular and influential metal bands of all time.

Iron Maiden's early years were a time of great change and growth for the band. They quickly established themselves as one of the most popular and influential metal bands in the world, and their music continues to inspire and excite fans to this day.

Iron Maiden: '80 '81

by Greg Prato

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3969 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	220 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE