As Iron Maiden celebrate their 50th anniversary, fans are being treated to a series honoring the band’s legacy. From a tribute album for the late Paul Di’Anno, the band’s original frontman, to a unique collectible that celebrates their famous “flying tour bus,” and a documentary set for release in 2025, there’s much to look forward to. Here’s a breakdown of each announcement.
‘In Memory Of’: Paul Di’Anno Tribute Album Arrives May 16
Metalville Records will release In Memory Of, a compilation honoring the late Paul Di’Anno, on May 16. The former Iron Maiden frontman, who passed away in October, would have turned 67 on May 17.
The album features highlights from Di’Anno’s time with Metalville Records. The release also includes rare photos and exclusive liner notes by Iron Maiden biographer Matthias Mader. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the charity Metality e.V.
Track List:
01) Paul Di’Anno – “Impaler” (live)
02) Architects of Chaoz – “Je Suis Charlie” (prev. unreleased)
03) Architects of Chaoz – “Switched Off… Released”
04) Paul Di’Anno – “The Beast Arises” (live)
05) Paul Di’Anno – “Marshall Lokjaw” (live)
06) Architects of Chaoz – “Rejected”
07) Architects of Chaoz – “You’ve Been Kissed by the Wings of the Angel of Death”
08) Paul Di’Anno – “Running Free” (live)
09) Architects of Chaoz – “Apache Falls”
10) Paul Di’Anno – “Blitzkrieg Bob” (live)
11) Architects of Chaoz – “Killers” (prev. unreleased live)
12) Architects of Chaoz – “Soldier of Fortune”
Aviationtag Unveils Exclusive Iron Maiden Ed Force One Edition
Aviationtag has launched the Aviationtag x Iron Maiden Edition: Ed Force One, celebrating the legacy of the band’s iconic Boeing 747-400, TF-AAK. Used during Iron Maiden’s 2016 The Book of Souls world tour, Ed Force One transported the band, crew, and stage equipment, with frontman Bruce Dickinson—also a licensed pilot—taking the controls.
Each collectible Aviationtag is crafted from the scrapped aircraft’s upcycled material, featuring the Ed Force One logo on the front and Iron Maiden’s mascot, Eddie, on the back. A special booklet includes an exclusive interview with Dickinson reflecting on the plane’s storied history. For more information, go to this location.
Iron Maiden documentary announced for 2025 release
Universal Pictures Content Group has begun production on an official Iron Maiden documentary, set for international theatrical release in fall 2025 to mark the band’s 50th anniversary. The film will feature exclusive interviews with past and present members, including the final interview with late original vocalist Paul Di’Anno, along with rare archival footage and newly animated sequences bringing their mascot, Eddie, to life.
The documentary explores Iron Maiden’s legacy through the perspectives of the band and devoted fans, including Javier Bardem, Lars Ulrich, and Gene Simmons. It also examines the cultural impact of heavy metal and the band’s global influence.
Directed by Malcolm Venville and produced by Dominic Freeman, the film will coincide with Iron Maiden’s Run for Your Lives tour, kicking off in Budapest in May.
Helen Parker – Executive Vice President, Universal Pictures Content Group and Exec Producer said:
“We’re thrilled Iron Maiden have entrusted us to bring their legacy to cinemas around the world. Working closely with the band and their passionate fans has been an unrivalled experience allowing us to tell their story in a unique way and celebrate their incomparable fearless creativity in their 50th anniversary year.”
Rod Smallwood – Manager, Iron Maiden adds:
“We’re proud Universal Pictures Content Group has chosen to share the unique story of Iron Maiden with the world. We have given them unrestricted access to the band, our fans and musical peers. We trust that they will excite not only music fans but also anyone who loves a story of an underdog beating the odds to become and remain one of Britain’s biggest musical exports since our first record released 45 years ago.”
Feature Image Photo Credit: JOHN McMURTRIE
