Iron Maiden is a British heavy metal band formed in 1975, renowned for their powerful music, elaborate stage shows, and iconic mascot, Eddie. They are one of the most influential and successful bands in the heavy metal genre. Here’s a detailed overview:

History and Formation

• Formation: Iron Maiden was founded by bassist Steve Harris in 1975 in London, England. The band initially went through several lineup changes before settling into its classic lineup.
• Early Years: The band’s early years were marked by a series of lineup changes and struggles, but they eventually gained a following with their energetic live performances and distinctive sound.

Members

The classic lineup of Iron Maiden includes:

• Steve Harris – Bass guitar, primary songwriter (founding member)
• Bruce Dickinson – Vocals (joined in 1981, rejoined in 1999)
• Dave Murray – Guitar (joined in 1976)
• Adrian Smith – Guitar (joined in 1980, left in 1990, rejoined in 1999)
• Janick Gers – Guitar (joined in 1990)
• Nicko McBrain – Drums (joined in 1982)

Past members include:

• Paul Di’Anno – Vocals (1978–1981)
• Clive Burr – Drums (1979–1982)
• Dennis Stratton – Guitar (1979–1980)
• Bruce Dickinson – Vocals (1981–1993, 1999–present)
• Blaze Bayley – Vocals (1994–1999)

Discography

Iron Maiden’s discography is extensive and includes many influential and classic albums. Notable releases include:

Studio Albums

1. Iron Maiden (1980)
2. Killers (1981)
3. The Number of the Beast (1982)
4. Piece of Mind (1983)
5. Powerslave (1984)
6. Somewhere in Time (1986)
7. Seventh Son of a Seventh Son (1988)
8. No Prayer for the Dying (1990)
9. Fear of the Dark (1992)
10. The X Factor (1995)
11. Virtual XI (1998)
12. Brave New World (2000)
13. Dance of Death (2003)
14. A Matter of Life and Death (2006)
15. The Final Frontier (2010)
16. The Book of Souls (2015)
17. Senjutsu (2021)

Live Albums

1. Live After Death (1985)
2. A Real Live One (1993)
3. A Real Dead One (1993)
4. Rock in Rio (2002)
5. Death on the Road (2005)
6. Flight 666 (2009) – Live album and documentary
7. En Vivo! (2012)
8. The Book of Souls: Live Chapter (2017)

Compilation Albums

1. Best of the Beast (1996)
2. Edward the Great (2002)
3. Somewhere Back in Time (2008)
4. The Essential Iron Maiden (2011)

Notable Facts

• Mascot Eddie: Iron Maiden’s mascot, Eddie, is one of the most recognizable symbols in heavy metal. He appears on most of their album covers and stage shows.
• Iconic Albums: Albums like The Number of the Beast and Powerslave are considered seminal works in heavy metal.
• Influence: Iron Maiden has had a significant impact on the heavy metal genre, influencing countless bands with their music and style.
• Live Performances: Known for their elaborate and theatrical live shows, Iron Maiden’s concerts often feature elaborate stage setups and pyrotechnics.
• Legacy: Iron Maiden has been praised for their musicianship, lyrical themes, and contributions to the genre, securing their place as one of the most enduring and influential heavy metal bands.

Iron Maiden continues to be a major force in heavy metal, celebrated for their powerful music, iconic imagery, and lasting impact on the genre.