Iron Maiden: The Legacy

 

 Iron Maiden in their early years

 

Following the release of Royal Mail's special edition stamps featuring Iron Maiden's work spanning over 4 decades, we take a look at the history and impact of this legendary band.

Iron Maiden is one of the most influential and enduring bands in the history of heavy metal. Formed in London in 1975, the band quickly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the burgeoning British heavy metal scene. Over the course of their career, Iron Maiden has released 16 studio albums, sold over 100 million records worldwide, and played thousands of live shows to millions of fans. 

 

THE EARLY YEARS

Iron Maiden was formed in East London by bassist Steve Harris. After recruiting a lineup that included vocalist Paul Di'Anno, the band began playing gigs around London and quickly gained a reputation as one of the most exciting and dynamic live acts on the scene. Their self-financed debut EP, The Soundhouse Tapes, was released in 1979 and sold out of its initial run of 1,000 copies in a matter of weeks.

The release of the EP caught the attention of record labels and the band signed with EMI and released their first full-length album, Iron Maiden, in 1980. The album was a critical and commercial success, reaching the Top 20 of the UK Albums Chart and solidifying the band's place in the heavy metal pantheon.

  

THE RISE AND FAME

Iron Maiden's follow-up album, Killers, was released in 1981 and featured the band's first hit single, "Wrathchild." The band embarked on a heavy touring schedule, performing in front of growing crowds at venues around the world. They released several more albums over the next few years, including The Number of the Beast and Piece of Mind, which solidified their position as one of the top heavy metal bands in the world.

In 1983, Bruce Dickinson, who would become one of the band's most iconic vocalist, joined the band. The band's next album, Powerslave, was released in 1984 and was a commercial and critical success, reaching the Top 10 of the UK Albums Chart and solidifying their position as one of the top bands in the heavy metal genre.

 

Legacy Of The Beast Tour - May 26 2022, Tallinn, Estonia - Photo: John McMurtrie 

 

THE LEGACY

Iron Maiden has continued to release albums and tour extensively over the years, with several line-up changes along the way. The band has sold over 100 million records worldwide and has been cited as an influence by countless heavy metal and hard rock bands. Their popularity shows no signs of waning and they continue to perform to sold-out crowds around the world, with the band's most recent album, The Book of Souls, being released in 2015.

The band's iconic mascot Eddie, which appears on many of their album covers and in their live shows, has become one of the most recognizable figures in heavy metal. The band's stage shows are also known for being elaborate and theatrical, featuring pyrotechnics, smoke, and other special effects.

To conclude, Iron Maiden is one of the most important and enduring bands in the history of heavy metal. They have been a major influence on countless bands, and continue to inspire new generations of fans with their powerful music and live performances. Iron Maiden's legacy is secure and they will be remembered as one of the greatest and important band in the world of heavy metal music.

 

SHOP IRON MAIDEN T-SHIRTS

If stamps aren't your thing we have an amazing range of Iron Maiden tees to choose from. Wear your tee with pride and get loud! 

 

 

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