Iron Maiden is a British heavy metal band formed in Leyton, East London, in 1975. They are one of the most influential and successful heavy metal bands of all time, known for their powerful music, elaborate stage shows, and iconic mascot, Eddie.
The band’s classic lineup consists of vocalist Bruce Dickinson, bassist and primary songwriter Steve Harris, guitarists Dave Murray, Adrian Smith, and Janick Gers, and drummer Nicko McBrain. Over the years, the lineup has seen some changes, but Harris has remained a constant driving force behind the band.
Iron Maiden’s music is characterized by its intricate guitar work, epic compositions, and Dickinson’s operatic vocals. They are known for their ability to tell stories through their music, drawing inspiration from history, literature, and mythology. Some of their most famous songs include “The Number of the Beast,” “Run to the Hills,” “Fear of the Dark,” and “The Trooper.”
The band’s live performances are legendary, featuring elaborate stage sets, pyrotechnics, and the menacing presence of Eddie, their zombie-like mascot. Iron Maiden’s tours have taken them to every corner of the globe, and they continue to attract massive crowds and sell out arenas and stadiums worldwide.
Throughout their career, Iron Maiden has released numerous critically acclaimed albums and won countless awards. They are considered one of the most successful heavy metal bands in history, with a dedicated fan base known as the “Iron Maiden family.”
1. The Number of the Beast
“The Number of the Beast” is a song by the British heavy metal band Iron Maiden, released on their album of the same name in 1982. It was written by the band’s bassist and primary songwriter, Steve Harris.
“The Number of the Beast” is one of Iron Maiden’s most famous and enduring songs. The lyrics were inspired by a nightmare that Harris had after watching a horror movie. The song tells the story of a protagonist who encounters demonic forces and struggles with his own mortality.
The track features the distinctive vocals of Bruce Dickinson, who joined the band as their lead vocalist for the album “The Number of the Beast.” Dickinson’s powerful and operatic delivery adds to the song’s intensity and drama.
Musically, “The Number of the Beast” is characterized by its driving rhythm, galloping bass lines, and dual guitar harmonies, which are trademarks of Iron Maiden’s sound. The song also includes a memorable guitar solo by Dave Murray and Adrian Smith.
Upon its release, “The Number of the Beast” sparked controversy due to its dark themes and references to Satanism. Despite this, or perhaps because of it, the song became a massive commercial success and remains one of Iron Maiden’s most popular and iconic tracks.
“The Number of the Beast” is often cited as one of the greatest heavy metal songs of all time and has been covered by numerous artists. It continues to be a staple of Iron Maiden’s live performances and is celebrated as a classic in the heavy metal genre.
2. Run to the Hills
“Run to the Hills” is a song by the British heavy metal band Iron Maiden. It was released as the lead single from their third studio album, “The Number of the Beast,” in 1982. The song was written by the band’s bassist and primary songwriter, Steve Harris.
“Run to the Hills” is a fast-paced and energetic heavy metal anthem that tells the story of the colonization of Native American lands by European settlers and the resulting conflicts between the two groups. The lyrics depict the violence and brutality of the historical events, with references to battles, massacres, and the destruction of indigenous cultures.
The song features Iron Maiden’s signature twin guitar harmonies, thunderous drumming, and frontman Bruce Dickinson’s powerful vocals. Its memorable chorus, with the repeated refrain “Run to the hills, run for your lives,” has made it one of the band’s most iconic and enduring songs.
“Run to the Hills” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in the UK Singles Chart and becoming one of Iron Maiden’s most popular and recognizable songs. It remains a staple of their live performances and is often cited as one of the greatest heavy metal songs of all time.
3. Aces High
“Aces High” is a song by the British heavy metal band Iron Maiden, released on their fifth studio album, “Powerslave,” in 1984. It was written by the band’s bassist and primary songwriter, Steve Harris.
“Aces High” is known for its fast-paced tempo, galloping rhythm, and energetic guitar riffs, which are characteristic of Iron Maiden’s signature sound. The song’s lyrics are inspired by the exploits of British pilots during the Battle of Britain in World War II.
The track opens with the sound of an aircraft taking off and features lyrics that describe the aerial combat and bravery of the pilots as they engage in dogfights with enemy aircraft. The chorus, with its memorable refrain of “Running, scrambling, flying / Rolling, turning, diving,” captures the adrenaline-fueled excitement of aerial combat.
“Aces High” is notable for its dynamic guitar solos, performed by Dave Murray and Adrian Smith, and Bruce Dickinson’s powerful vocals, which convey the urgency and intensity of the battle. The song’s galloping rhythm and melodic hooks make it a favorite among fans and a highlight of Iron Maiden’s live performances.
Overall, “Aces High” is celebrated as one of Iron Maiden’s most iconic songs, combining thrilling instrumentation with vivid storytelling to create a powerful and memorable anthem that pays homage to the heroism of the pilots who fought in the Battle of Britain.
4. The Trooper
“The Trooper” is a song by the British heavy metal band Iron Maiden, released on their fourth studio album, “Piece of Mind,” in 1983. It was written by the band’s bassist and primary songwriter, Steve Harris.
“The Trooper” is inspired by the Charge of the Light Brigade, a famous battle that took place during the Crimean War in 1854. The lyrics vividly describe the chaos and carnage of the battlefield as the British cavalry charges into enemy fire.
Musically, “The Trooper” is characterized by its galloping rhythm, fast-paced tempo, and memorable guitar riffs, which are played by Dave Murray and Adrian Smith. The song’s iconic guitar solo, performed by Murray, is one of the most recognizable in Iron Maiden’s repertoire.
Bruce Dickinson’s powerful vocals bring the story to life, conveying the bravery and determination of the soldiers as they face overwhelming odds. The chorus, with its anthemic refrain of “The Trooper,” has become a rallying cry for fans at Iron Maiden concerts.
“The Trooper” is considered one of Iron Maiden’s signature songs and is a favorite among fans and critics alike. It has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials. The song’s enduring popularity and timeless appeal make it a classic of the heavy metal genre.
5. 2 Minutes to Midnight
“2 Minutes to Midnight” is a song by the British heavy metal band Iron Maiden. It was released as the lead single from their fifth studio album, “Powerslave,” in 1984. The song was written by the band’s bassist and primary songwriter, Steve Harris.
“2 Minutes to Midnight” is a fast-paced and politically charged heavy metal anthem that addresses the tensions and fears of the Cold War era. The lyrics depict the impending doom of nuclear war and the threat of global destruction. The title refers to the symbolic “Doomsday Clock,” which represents the likelihood of a global catastrophe.
The song features Iron Maiden’s trademark galloping rhythm, powerful guitar riffs, and Bruce Dickinson’s soaring vocals. Its anthemic chorus, with the repeated refrain “2 minutes to midnight, the hands that threaten doom,” has made it one of the band’s most beloved and enduring songs.
“2 Minutes to Midnight” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in the UK Singles Chart and becoming one of Iron Maiden’s most popular and recognizable songs. It remains a staple of their live performances and is often cited as one of the greatest heavy metal songs of all time.
6. Hallowed Be Thy Name
“Hallowed Be Thy Name” is a song by the British heavy metal band Iron Maiden, released on their third studio album, “The Number of the Beast,” in 1982. The song was written by the band’s bassist and primary songwriter, Steve Harris.
“Hallowed Be Thy Name” is widely regarded as one of Iron Maiden’s greatest and most iconic songs. It is known for its epic composition, intricate instrumentation, and thought-provoking lyrics. The song tells the story of a man who is about to be executed and reflects on his life, regrets, and mortality.
Musically, “Hallowed Be Thy Name” features dynamic shifts in tempo and mood, with soaring guitar solos, thunderous drums, and powerful vocals by Bruce Dickinson. The song’s complex arrangements and melodic hooks showcase Iron Maiden’s technical prowess and musical creativity.
The lyrics of “Hallowed Be Thy Name” are introspective and philosophical, exploring themes of death, redemption, and the afterlife. The title is a reference to the Lord’s Prayer, adding a spiritual dimension to the song’s existential reflections.
“Hallowed Be Thy Name” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Iron Maiden’s live performances. It is often cited as one of the greatest heavy metal songs of all time and has been covered by numerous artists across different genres. The song’s enduring popularity and profound impact on the heavy metal genre solidify its status as a classic in the pantheon of rock music.
7. Wasted Years
“Wasted Years” is a song by the British heavy metal band Iron Maiden. It was released as the lead single from their sixth studio album, “Somewhere in Time,” in 1986. The song was written by the band’s guitarist and primary songwriter, Adrian Smith.
“Wasted Years” is a mid-tempo heavy metal anthem that reflects on the passage of time and the regrets that come with missed opportunities. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and reflection as the narrator looks back on the choices they’ve made and the paths they’ve taken in life.
The song features Iron Maiden’s signature twin guitar harmonies, melodic solos, and Bruce Dickinson’s powerful vocals. Its memorable chorus, with the repeated refrain “So understand, don’t waste your time always searching for those wasted years,” has made it one of the band’s most beloved and enduring songs.
“Wasted Years” was a commercial success, reaching the top 20 in the UK Singles Chart and becoming one of Iron Maiden’s most popular and recognizable songs. It remains a staple of their live performances and is often cited as one of the highlights of the “Somewhere in Time” album.
8. Fear of the Dark
“Fear of the Dark” is a song by the British heavy metal band Iron Maiden, released on their ninth studio album of the same name in 1992. The song was written by the band’s bassist and primary songwriter, Steve Harris.
“Fear of the Dark” is one of Iron Maiden’s most famous and enduring songs. It is characterized by its ominous atmosphere, melodic guitar riffs, and powerful vocals by Bruce Dickinson. The song’s lyrics explore the theme of fear and the sense of unease that comes with darkness, both literal and metaphorical.
The chorus, with its anthemic refrain of “Fear of the dark, fear of the dark / I have a constant fear that something’s always near,” has become a rallying cry for Iron Maiden fans around the world. The song’s infectious melody and memorable hooks make it a favorite among fans and a highlight of the band’s live performances.
“Fear of the Dark” has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials. Its enduring popularity and universal themes have cemented its status as one of Iron Maiden’s signature songs and a classic of the heavy metal genre.
9. Iron Maiden
“Iron Maiden” is the self-titled debut studio album by the British heavy metal band Iron Maiden. It was released on April 14, 1980, through EMI Records.
The album features nine tracks, including classics like “Prowler,” “Remember Tomorrow,” and “Phantom of the Opera.” The songs showcase the band’s signature galloping rhythms, dual guitar harmonies, and Bruce Dickinson’s powerful vocals.
“Iron Maiden” received positive reviews from critics and helped establish the band as one of the leaders of the burgeoning New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement. While it did not achieve significant commercial success upon its release, the album has since become a classic of the heavy metal genre and a fan favorite.
The album’s iconic cover art, featuring the band’s mascot Eddie, was created by artist Derek Riggs and has become synonymous with Iron Maiden’s image. “Iron Maiden” laid the groundwork for the band’s future success and remains a cornerstone of their extensive discography.
10. The Wicker Man
“The Wicker Man” is a song by the British heavy metal band Iron Maiden, released on their twelfth studio album, “Brave New World,” in 2000. The song was written by the band’s vocalist, Bruce Dickinson, and guitarist, Adrian Smith, along with their producer, Kevin Shirley.
“The Wicker Man” is known for its energetic and driving rhythm, catchy guitar riffs, and powerful vocals by Bruce Dickinson. The song’s lyrics are inspired by the 1973 British horror film of the same name, which depicts a remote Scottish island where a pagan cult performs human sacrifices.
In the song, the protagonist confronts the horrors of the cult and the destruction it brings, while also expressing defiance and determination to resist its influence. The chorus, with its anthemic refrain of “Your time will come, your time will come,” captures the theme of karma and the inevitable consequences of one’s actions.
“The Wicker Man” became one of Iron Maiden’s most popular and successful songs, receiving significant airplay on rock radio stations and earning praise from fans and critics alike. It is often cited as one of the highlights of “Brave New World” and has become a staple of Iron Maiden’s live performances.
The song’s infectious energy and memorable hooks have solidified its status as a classic in Iron Maiden’s repertoire and a favorite among fans of the heavy metal genre.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
