The heavy metal world has lost one of its early pioneers. Paul Mario Day, the original vocalist for Iron Maiden, has passed away at the age of 69 after a battle with cancer. Though his name may not be as widely recognized as some who came after him, Day’s contributions to the foundations of British heavy metal were significant—and deserve to be remembered.
Born in the UK and later settling in Australia, Paul Mario Day was the first-ever frontman of Iron Maiden, joining the fledgling band in its earliest incarnation in 1975. At the time, the group was still finding its sound, playing pubs and clubs in East London with a raw energy that hinted at what was to come. Though his time with Maiden was short—he parted ways with the band before they recorded any official material—his role in shaping their early identity is a part of the band’s origin story. Iron Maiden founder Steve Harris has acknowledged Day’s role in those formative years.
After leaving Maiden, Day went on to sing with More, a band that gained attention during the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) explosion. More played the legendary Monsters of Rock festival at Donington in 1981, sharing the stage with giants like Whitesnake and AC/DC, and released a pair of well-received albums that showcased Day’s powerful vocals.
Later, Paul joined Wildfire, another British metal outfit, before taking on what would become a defining chapter of his career—joining Sweet, the glam rock legends known for hits like Ballroom Blitz and Fox on the Run. In 1985, original Sweet members Andy Scott and Mick Tucker were rebuilding the band, and when Paul showed up for an audition, they “looked no further.” With Day at the mic, the revamped Sweet found new life, embarking on sold-out tours in Australia and Europe. Their performances at London’s famed Marquee Club resulted in the Live at the Marquee album and video—releases that still hold up, with fans often praising Day’s commanding vocal presence.
Sweet guitarist Andy Scott remembered Day fondly, writing:
“When Paul arrived for the audition, we looked no further… Live at the Marquee did well in various charts around the world and Paul’s vocal performance has stood the test of time.”
Paul Mario Day passed away peacefully at his home in Australia, leaving behind his wife Cecily, family, and a legacy that stretches across decades of rock and metal history.
He may not have become a household name, but for fans who dig deep into the roots of metal and glam, Paul Mario Day remains a figure of respect—a singer who helped light the fire that so many others would carry forward.
Rest in peace, PMD.
You may have left the stage, but your voice still echoes.
