Paul Mario Day, the original vocalist of Iron Maiden, has died at the age of 69 following a battle with cancer. The British-born singer fronted the band in their earliest formation in the mid-1970s before going on to lead acts such as More, Wildfire, and Sweet. Day’s passing was confirmed on Tuesday (29th) by Sweet guitarist Andy Scott, who shared a heartfelt tribute via Sweet’s social media, stating:

“Paul Mario Day RIP

IN 1985 Mick Tucker and myself put together the first new line-up of Sweet after the hiatus of the original band. We needed a singer and when Paul arrived for the audition we looked no further. Our first dates were in Australia, total sell-outs which boded well for the future. Europe followed suit and 3 sold out nights at the Marquee in London produced a live album, video and DVD. “Live at the Marquee” did well in various charts around the world and Paul’s vocal performance has stood the test of time.

PMD was the original singer with Iron Maiden and had a stint with the band More before joining Sweet.

He passed away peacefully at his home in Australia. My  deepest condolences to his wife Cecily and family and friends.

A sad day for all Sweet fans.

Andy x”

Fellow band MORE also honored Day’s memory with their own statement on social media:

“Band statement:

We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the great MORE vocalist Paul Mario Day.

Paul was a huge part of the NWOBHM from his time in an early version of Iron Maiden and of course his fantastic performance on the Warhead album. He was a well loved figure in British rock music and played many memorable shows not least the legendary 1981 Monsters of Rock show at Castle Donninton with AC/DC Whitesnake/David Coverdale as well as tours with Iron Maiden Def Leppard and many other legendary artists

Mike Freeland remembers him fondly as a ‘bloody great vocalist!’

It’s an honour for us to continue to play his music and we will always think of him every time we hit the opening notes to ‘Warhead’.

We send our deepest condolences to Paul’s family and friends and also the many fans around the world who love his music.

Play his music loud and sing along!

Thank you

Rock in peace Paul “

Earlier today (30th), Iron Maiden issued a tribute, remembering Day’s contributions to the band’s early days:

“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.”

Zenae Zukowski

See Full Bio