Iron Maiden is a British heavy metal band formed in Leyton, East London, in 1975. They are one of the most iconic and influential bands in the heavy metal genre. Iron Maiden is known for their elaborate stage shows, mascot Eddie, and their distinct style of music characterized by galloping rhythms, harmonized guitar solos, and operatic vocals.
The band’s original lineup consisted of bassist and primary songwriter Steve Harris, guitarists Dave Murray and Dennis Stratton, vocalist Paul Di’Anno, and drummer Clive Burr. Over the years, the lineup has undergone several changes, with Harris being the only constant member.
Iron Maiden released their self-titled debut album in 1980, which helped establish them as one of the leading bands of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement. They achieved commercial success with their third album, “The Number of the Beast” (1982), which featured the hit singles “Run to the Hills” and the title track.
Throughout their career, Iron Maiden has released numerous critically acclaimed albums and singles, including “Powerslave” (1984), “Somewhere in Time” (1986), “Seventh Son of a Seventh Son” (1988), “Brave New World” (2000), and “The Book of Souls” (2015). They are known for their epic album artwork, often featuring their mascot Eddie in various guises.
Iron Maiden has built a dedicated global fanbase and has sold over 100 million records worldwide. They are renowned for their energetic live performances and have toured extensively around the world, playing to millions of fans in arenas and stadiums.
In addition to their musical achievements, Iron Maiden has received numerous awards and accolades, including a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance and induction into the Hollywood RockWalk and the Kerrang! Hall of Fame.
Overall, Iron Maiden’s impact on heavy metal music and popular culture is profound, and they continue to inspire generations of fans and musicians with their powerful and distinctive sound.
1. The Trooper
“The Trooper” is a song by Iron Maiden, released in 1983 as the second single from their fourth studio album, “Piece of Mind.” It was written by the band’s bassist and primary songwriter, Steve Harris.
“The Trooper” is one of Iron Maiden’s most famous and beloved songs, renowned for its energetic pace, galloping rhythm, and memorable guitar riffs. The lyrics of the song are inspired by the Charge of the Light Brigade, a famous battle during the Crimean War in 1854, and they tell the story of a soldier’s bravery and defiance in the face of overwhelming odds.
The song features Bruce Dickinson’s powerful vocals, which perfectly capture the intensity and emotion of the battle. Guitarists Dave Murray and Adrian Smith deliver blistering solos, while Harris’s driving bass and Nicko McBrain’s thunderous drumming provide the song with its relentless energy.
“The Trooper” has become a staple of Iron Maiden’s live performances and is often considered one of their greatest and most iconic songs. It has been praised by fans and critics alike for its thrilling melody, powerful lyrics, and dynamic instrumentation. The song’s iconic riff and memorable chorus have cemented its status as a classic in the heavy metal genre, and it remains one of Iron Maiden’s most enduring and popular songs.
2. Run to the Hills
“Run to the Hills” is a song by Iron Maiden, released in 1982 as the lead single from their third studio album, “The Number of the Beast.” It was written by the band’s bassist and primary songwriter, Steve Harris.
“Run to the Hills” is one of Iron Maiden’s most well-known and iconic songs, recognized for its fast-paced rhythm, galloping bassline, and powerful vocals. The lyrics of the song explore themes of conflict and oppression, specifically focusing on the historical mistreatment of Native Americans by European settlers.
The song features Bruce Dickinson’s soaring vocals, delivering powerful verses and a memorable chorus. Guitarists Dave Murray and Adrian Smith contribute blistering guitar solos, while Harris’s driving bass and Nicko McBrain’s thunderous drumming provide the song with its relentless energy.
“Run to the Hills” has become a staple of Iron Maiden’s live performances and is often considered one of their greatest and most influential songs. It has been praised by fans and critics for its infectious melody, dynamic instrumentation, and thought-provoking lyrics. The song’s iconic riff and memorable chorus have cemented its status as a classic in the heavy metal genre, and it remains one of Iron Maiden’s most enduring and popular songs.
3. Fear of the Dark
“Fear of the Dark” is a song by Iron Maiden, released in 1992 as the title track of their ninth studio album. 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 iconic and enduring songs, known for its haunting melody, atmospheric lyrics, and powerful chorus. The song explores the theme of fear and the feeling of being consumed by darkness, both literally and metaphorically.
The song features Bruce Dickinson’s emotive vocals, which convey a sense of vulnerability and uncertainty, as well as moments of fierce defiance. Guitarists Dave Murray and Janick Gers deliver atmospheric guitar riffs and melodic solos, while Harris’s driving bass and Nicko McBrain’s dynamic drumming contribute to the song’s dramatic intensity.
“Fear of the Dark” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Iron Maiden’s live performances. It has been praised for its evocative lyrics, memorable melody, and powerful delivery, and it remains one of the band’s most beloved and enduring songs. The song’s title has also become synonymous with Iron Maiden’s image and ethos, representing their connection to the darker themes of heavy metal music.
4. Hallowed Be Thy Name
“Hallowed Be Thy Name” is a song by Iron Maiden, released in 1982 as the final track on their third studio album, “The Number of the Beast.” It was written by the band’s bassist and primary songwriter, Steve Harris.
“Hallowed Be Thy Name” is considered one of Iron Maiden’s greatest and most iconic songs, known for its epic structure, complex instrumentation, and thought-provoking lyrics. The song’s title is taken from the Lord’s Prayer, and the lyrics explore themes of fear, mortality, and the afterlife.
The song features Bruce Dickinson’s powerful and emotive vocals, which range from haunting whispers to soaring screams. Guitarists Dave Murray and Adrian Smith deliver intricate guitar riffs and melodic solos, while Harris’s driving bass and Nicko McBrain’s dynamic drumming provide the song with its relentless energy.
“Hallowed Be Thy Name” is renowned for its epic length, clocking in at over seven minutes, and its dramatic shifts in tempo and intensity. The song builds to a climactic finale, with Dickinson’s impassioned vocals and the band’s thunderous instrumentation creating a powerful sense of catharsis.
“Hallowed Be Thy Name” has become a fan favorite and a staple of Iron Maiden’s live performances. It has been praised for its ambitious composition, emotional depth, and powerful delivery, and it remains one of the band’s most revered and celebrated songs.
5. Number of the Beast
“The Number of the Beast” is a song by Iron Maiden, released in 1982 as the title track of their third studio album. 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 iconic songs, known for its powerful vocals, intricate instrumentation, and dark subject matter. The song’s lyrics explore themes of fear, religion, and the occult, drawing inspiration from horror movies and literature.
The song features Bruce Dickinson’s dynamic and theatrical vocals, which range from sinister whispers to piercing screams. Guitarists Dave Murray and Adrian Smith deliver blistering guitar riffs and melodic solos, while Harris’s driving bass and Nicko McBrain’s thunderous drumming provide the song with its relentless energy.
“The Number of the Beast” is celebrated for its epic structure, dramatic tempo changes, and memorable chorus. The song’s ominous atmosphere and powerful imagery have made it a fan favorite and a staple of Iron Maiden’s live performances.
“The Number of the Beast” has been praised for its ambitious composition, complex lyrics, and powerful delivery, and it remains one of Iron Maiden’s most enduring and beloved songs. It has cemented its status as a classic in the heavy metal genre and continues to be celebrated by fans around the world.
6. Aces High
“Aces High” is a song by Iron Maiden, released in 1984 as the lead track on their fifth studio album, “Powerslave.” The song was written by the band’s bassist and primary songwriter, Steve Harris.
“Aces High” is known for its energetic and fast-paced tempo, inspired by the subject matter of aerial combat during World War II. The lyrics of the song vividly describe the experiences of fighter pilots as they engage in dogfights against enemy aircraft.
The song features Bruce Dickinson’s powerful and soaring vocals, which capture the intensity and adrenaline of aerial combat. Guitarists Dave Murray and Adrian Smith deliver blistering guitar riffs and harmonized solos, while Harris’s driving bass and Nicko McBrain’s thunderous drumming provide the song with its relentless energy.
“Aces High” is celebrated for its exhilarating melody, dynamic instrumentation, and memorable chorus. The song’s themes of courage, sacrifice, and heroism have resonated with fans, and it has become one of Iron Maiden’s most beloved and iconic songs.
“Aces High” has been a staple of Iron Maiden’s live performances for decades and remains a fan favorite at concerts. It has been praised for its thrilling composition, powerful lyrics, and electrifying performance, cementing its status as one of Iron Maiden’s greatest achievements.
7. 2 Minutes to Midnight
“2 Minutes to Midnight” is a song by Iron Maiden, released in 1984 as the lead single from their fifth studio album, “Powerslave.” The song was written by the band’s bassist and primary songwriter, Steve Harris, and guitarist Adrian Smith.
“2 Minutes to Midnight” is a fast-paced and energetic track that addresses themes of political tension, nuclear warfare, and the Doomsday Clock, which symbolizes the likelihood of a global catastrophe. The song’s title refers to the clock being set at two minutes to midnight, representing the urgency and imminent danger of potential conflict.
The song features Bruce Dickinson’s powerful vocals, delivering the lyrics with intensity and conviction. Guitarists Dave Murray and Adrian Smith contribute blistering guitar riffs and harmonized solos, while Harris’s driving bass and Nicko McBrain’s dynamic drumming provide the song with its relentless energy.
“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 enduring songs. It has been praised for its memorable melody, thought-provoking lyrics, and dynamic instrumentation, and it remains a fan favorite at Iron Maiden concerts.
The song’s themes of political unrest and the threat of nuclear war continue to resonate with listeners, making “2 Minutes to Midnight” one of Iron Maiden’s most relevant and socially conscious compositions.
8. Wasted Years
“Wasted Years” is a song by Iron Maiden, released in 1986 as the lead single from their sixth studio album, “Somewhere in Time.” The song was written by the band’s guitarist and primary songwriter, Adrian Smith.
“Wasted Years” is a melodic and introspective track that reflects on the passage of time and the choices we make in life. The lyrics express a sense of longing and regret for missed opportunities and lost moments, while also acknowledging the importance of learning from past experiences and moving forward.
The song features Bruce Dickinson’s emotive vocals, delivering the lyrics with passion and sincerity. Guitarists Dave Murray and Adrian Smith contribute melodic guitar riffs and harmonized solos, while Steve Harris’s driving bass and Nicko McBrain’s dynamic drumming provide the song with its powerful rhythm and energy.
“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 enduring songs. It has been praised for its memorable melody, heartfelt lyrics, and dynamic instrumentation, and it remains a fan favorite at Iron Maiden concerts.
The song’s themes of reflection, redemption, and resilience have resonated with listeners over the years, making “Wasted Years” one of Iron Maiden’s most beloved and emotionally resonant compositions.
9. Can I Play with Madness
“Can I Play with Madness” is a song by Iron Maiden, released in 1988 as the lead single from their seventh studio album, “Seventh Son of a Seventh Son.” The song was written by the band’s bassist and primary songwriter, Steve Harris, along with guitarist Adrian Smith and vocalist Bruce Dickinson.
“Can I Play with Madness” is a mid-tempo track with a catchy melody and a memorable chorus. The lyrics tell the story of a young man who becomes obsessed with a mysterious figure known as the “Madness.” Despite warnings from others, he is drawn to the Madness and ultimately seeks out its secrets, leading to his own downfall.
The song features Bruce Dickinson’s powerful vocals, delivering the lyrics with passion and intensity. Guitarists Dave Murray and Adrian Smith contribute melodic guitar riffs and harmonized solos, while Steve Harris’s driving bass and Nicko McBrain’s dynamic drumming provide the song with its energetic rhythm and momentum.
“Can I Play with Madness” was a commercial success, reaching the top 3 in the UK Singles Chart and becoming one of Iron Maiden’s most popular and enduring songs. It has been praised for its catchy melody, memorable lyrics, and dynamic instrumentation, and it remains a fan favorite at Iron Maiden concerts.
The song’s themes of curiosity, temptation, and consequences have resonated with listeners over the years, making “Can I Play with Madness” one of Iron Maiden’s most iconic and enduring compositions.
10. The Evil That Men Do
“The Evil That Men Do” is a song by Iron Maiden, released in 1988 as the second single from their seventh studio album, “Seventh Son of a Seventh Son.” The song was written by the band’s bassist and primary songwriter, Steve Harris, along with guitarist Adrian Smith and vocalist Bruce Dickinson.
“The Evil That Men Do” is a fast-paced and energetic track with a memorable chorus and catchy guitar riffs. The lyrics of the song explore themes of morality, sin, and the consequences of one’s actions. The title is derived from a line in William Shakespeare’s play “Julius Caesar.”
The song features Bruce Dickinson’s powerful vocals, delivering the lyrics with passion and intensity. Guitarists Dave Murray and Adrian Smith contribute melodic guitar riffs and harmonized solos, while Steve Harris’s driving bass and Nicko McBrain’s dynamic drumming provide the song with its relentless energy and momentum.
“The Evil That Men Do” was a commercial success, reaching the top 5 in the UK Singles Chart and becoming one of Iron Maiden’s most popular and enduring songs. It has been praised for its catchy melody, memorable lyrics, and dynamic instrumentation, and it remains a fan favorite at Iron Maiden concerts.
The song’s themes of morality and accountability have resonated with listeners over the years, making “The Evil That Men Do” one of Iron Maiden’s most iconic and enduring compositions.