Iron Maiden is a British heavy metal band that formed in London in 1975. Known for their powerful and energetic sound, intricate guitar work, and elaborate stage performances, Iron Maiden has become one of the most successful and influential bands in the history of heavy metal.
Iron Maiden’s self-titled debut album was released in 1980, introducing the world to their signature sound characterized by galloping guitar riffs, powerful vocals, and epic song structures. The band’s music often combines elements of classic metal, progressive rock, and punk, creating a unique and instantly recognizable sound.
With vocalist Bruce Dickinson at the helm, Iron Maiden released a string of highly acclaimed albums throughout the 1980s, including “The Number of the Beast” (1982), “Powerslave” (1984), and “Seventh Son of a Seventh Son” (1988). These albums featured iconic songs like “Run to the Hills,” “The Trooper,” and “Fear of the Dark” that have become staples of the band’s live performances.
Iron Maiden’s lyrics often draw inspiration from historical events, literature, mythology, and social issues. Their songs tell stories and explore deep and thought-provoking themes, adding depth and complexity to their music.
The band’s mascot, Eddie, has become synonymous with Iron Maiden and is featured prominently in their album covers and stage shows. Eddie’s various incarnations over the years have become iconic symbols of the band’s identity.
Iron Maiden is also renowned for their elaborate stage productions and theatrical live performances. Their concerts are known for their energy, intensity, and the band’s ability to captivate and engage audiences.
Despite lineup changes over the years, Iron Maiden has maintained their dedicated fanbase and continued to release new music. Their albums, such as “Brave New World” (2000) and “The Book of Souls” (2015), have been well-received and showcase the band’s ongoing creativity and musical prowess.
Iron Maiden’s impact on heavy metal music is undeniable. Their unique sound, powerful performances, and enduring popularity have made them one of the most influential bands in the genre. With a discography filled with classic songs and a relentless touring schedule, Iron Maiden continues to inspire and entertain fans worldwide.
1. The Trooper (Piece Of Mind, 1983)
'The Trooper' from their 1983 album 'Piece Of Mind' is undoubtedly one of Iron Maiden's greatest hits. The song tells the story of a British soldier who goes to battle with his comrades in the Crimean War. The track features iconic guitar riffs, galloping drums and Bruce Dickinson's powerful vocals, making it a go-to favorite for fans of heavy metal.
'The Trooper' was written by Iron Maiden founder and bassist Steve Harris, who drew inspiration from Tennyson's poem 'Charge of the Light Brigade'. The song's music video also stands out as one of the most memorable visuals in metal history.
What makes this song even more notable is its timeless appeal. It remains a staple in Iron Maiden's live performances and has solidified its place in rock mythology. From its opening notes to its unforgettable chorus, 'The Trooper' is indeed a masterpiece that showcases Iron Maiden at their best.
"Hallowed be thy name", the only song on this list that can make dying sound like a badass experience.
2. Hallowed Be Thy Name (The Number Of The Beast, 1982)
This classic single, featured on the album 'The Number Of The Beast', 1982, is one of Iron Maiden's best-known tracks, covering themes of spirituality and death. The song is characterized by its powerful, slow tempo composition and distinctive intro riff that builds up to the heavy climax.
'Hallowed Be Thy Name' reflects the band's iconic lyrics comprising Bruce Dickinson's voice delivering a heartfelt and emotional performance about a prisoner's last thoughts before being executed. The song features progressive changes in tone and cadence throughout, making it both epic and compelling for audiences.
Notably, Iron Maiden performed 'Hallowed Be Thy Name' as the last song during their live shows, treating fans to an unforgettable experience. Its influence goes beyond rock music into pop culture, including appearances in television shows and movies.
According to Louder, "Hallowed Be Thy Name" is Iron Maiden's top-ranked song from numerous polls conducted over the years.
Unleash your inner Eddie with Powerslave, the ultimate ode to the Pharaohs and fierce guitar riffs.
3. Powerslave (Powerslave, 1984)
This track is a classic example of Iron Maiden's mastery of the epic metal sound. The Egyptian-inspired riff and Bruce Dickinson's powerful vocals make it a fan favorite. The lyrics allude to ancient pharaohs' power struggles, making the song both catchy and educational.
The soaring guitar solo in 'Powerslave' is one of the reasons why this song stands out amongst other tracks on the album. Additionally, Nicko McBrain's drumming brings an intensity that makes it impossible not to headbang along.
Notably, this song features some of the longest lines Bruce Dickinson has ever sung, showcasing his vocal range. It also serves as an introduction to the central character from their 'Somewhere in Time' album, Cyborg Eddie.
Fans have suggested that listening to 'Powerslave' during intense workouts can increase motivation due to its tempo and energy levels. The song encompasses everything that made Iron Maiden famous – fast riffs, engaging lyrics, and soaring vocals.
Get ready to be haunted by the musical genius of 'Phantom of the Opera' – it's like Andrew Lloyd Webber, but with more heavy metal and less singing cats.
4. Phantom Of The Opera (Iron Maiden, 1980)
Iron Maiden's 1980 release, featuring the classic 'Phantom of the Opera', showcases the band's unique blend of heavy metal and progressive rock. The song is an epic tale of mystery, romance and tragedy that unfolds over its eight-minute runtime. Its soaring vocals, intricate guitar work and thunderous drumming make it a fan favorite and a hallmark of the band's live shows.
'Phantom of the Opera' was written by Iron Maiden founder Steve Harris, who drew inspiration from both the classic novel by Gaston Leroux and Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical adaptation. The song tells the story of a young man named Christine and her encounters with a mysterious figure known only as "the Phantom".
The track was an early showcase for vocalist Bruce Dickinson, who delivers a powerhouse performance that has become one of his most iconic moments on record.
What sets 'Phantom of the Opera' apart from other Iron Maiden tracks is its complex structure and progressive leanings. The song features multiple sections, each with its own distinct feel and tempo, culminating in an epic finale that sees all elements come together in perfect harmony. This attention to composition is just one reason why many fans consider it to be one of the best Iron Maiden songs ever recorded.
Interestingly, 'Phantom of the Opera' was not released as a single but continues to be a standout track in the band's extensive discography. It has been performed at nearly every Iron Maiden concert since its inception and remains a fan favorite nearly four decades later. For those new to Iron Maiden or those looking to explore deeper cuts from their catalog, 'Phantom of the Opera' is an essential listen.
Whether you're an aviation enthusiast or just love headbanging, Aces High is the perfect pick-me-up for when life brings you down.
5. Aces High (Powerslave, 1984)
This Iron Maiden classic from the album Powerslave (1984) is one of their best and most beloved songs. The lyrics are based on World War II aerial battles, particularly the Battle of Britain. The opening guitar riff sets the tone for a fast-paced song that perfectly captures the energy and intensity of aerial combat.
The chorus, with its soaring melody and powerful vocals by Bruce Dickinson, is one of Iron Maiden's most memorable. The instrumental section features impressive solos by guitarists Dave Murray and Adrian Smith, along with drummer Nicko McBrain's thunderous drumming.
Aces High has been a staple of Iron Maiden's live shows for decades, and always gets the crowd pumped up and singing along. It's a perfect example of how the band can combine complex musical arrangements with catchy hooks and memorable lyrics to create an unforgettable song.
Fans will also appreciate Dickinson's incredible vocal range, which is on full display in Aces High. From his lower register in the verses to his soaring highs in the chorus, he delivers a performance that perfectly complements the driving rhythm section and intricate guitar work.
Overall, Aces High ranks among Iron Maiden's greatest achievements. It showcases everything that makes the band great – complex arrangements, memorable melodies, powerhouse vocals, and incredible musicianship. Any fan of hard rock or heavy metal should have this song on their playlist.
Better make sure you're not afraid of the dark before listening to this song, because Iron Maiden will have you running for the light switch.
6. Fear Of The Dark (Fear Of The Dark, 1992)
This song from Iron Maiden's album 'Fear Of The Dark' has always been a fan-favorite since its release in 1992. Its haunting melody and Bruce Dickinson's powerful vocals make for a memorable listening experience. The lyrics describe the fear of the unknown, portrayed through vivid imagery such as shadows and eyes staring in darkness. It has become an iconic track for both metalheads and casual listeners alike.
The instrumentation is top-notch, with Dave Murray and Janick Gers delivering a fantastic guitar solo towards the end of the song. Nicko McBrain's drumming adds to the eerie atmosphere of the music, making it one of Iron Maiden's most well-crafted tracks. It perfectly showcases their ability to blend powerful riffs and emotive melodies into a cohesive piece.
Interestingly, Fear Of The Dark became an unlikely anthem at sporting events such as rugby games due to its catchy chorus and crowd-pleasing energy. This added to its popularity even more, proving that good music transcends genres and audiences.
It is worth noting that despite being almost three decades old, Fear Of The Dark still manages to captivate listeners with its timeless appeal. According to Rolling Stone magazine, it remains one of Iron Maiden's most beloved songs of all time.
Source: https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-lists/10-best-iron-maiden-songs-of-all-time-168896/fear-of-the-dark-fear-of-the-dark-1992-170919/
Seventh Son of a Seventh Son: because six sons just wasn't metal enough for Iron Maiden.
7. Seventh Son Of A Seventh Son (Seventh Son Of A Seventh Son, 1988)
The seventh studio album from Iron Maiden, released in 1988, features the title track "Seventh Son Of A Seventh Son." This song follows the story of a character who is believed to possess magical abilities due to being born as the seventh son of a seventh son. The track's epic sound and complex structure make it one of Iron Maiden's most beloved songs.
"Seventh Son Of A Seventh Son" showcases progressive elements with its use of synths and layered guitars. The lyrics are influenced by folklore and mythology which also reflect in the artwork on the album cover. The song's climax features incredible guitar work which further reinforces Iron Maiden's reputation for being one of the greatest heavy metal bands in history.
Iron Maiden has always been known for incorporating storytelling elements into their music. "Seventh Son Of A Seventh Son" is no exception, with its narration taking listeners on a journey through magical realms and supernatural abilities. This song has continued to resonate with fans and remains an iconic part of Iron Maiden's catalogue.
Interestingly, the inspiration for this song came from a real-life mystical belief that seventh sons (or daughters) have special powers or skills. In some cultures, these individuals were believed to become healers or even capable of physical transformation. This concept was fascinating to Iron Maiden's lead singer Bruce Dickinson and served as inspiration for this track as well as other songs on the album.
Time may be wasted, but listening to this Iron Maiden classic is time well spent.
Sources:
- https://www.pinterest.com/pin/841610867729173017/
- https://www.deviantart.com/scythe007/art/IRON-MAIDEN-Seventh-Son-of-a-Seventh-Son-Wallpaper-58121647
8. Wasted Years (Somewhere In Time, 1986)
Featuring on the album Somewhere In Time, released in 1986, this Iron Maiden hit is one of the best tracks in their discography. The band's trademark powerful sound and unique writing style are showcased throughout the song. Wasted Years echoes themes of regret and reflection, with frontman Bruce Dickinson's vocals soaring over a crescendo of guitars and drums. This work is a testament to Maiden's ability to create anthemic songs that have stood the test of time.
The guitar solo on Wasted Years by Adrian Smith is considered to be one of the greatest solos in rock history, adding another level of depth to an already mesmerizing track. The song has become a fan favorite through its intricate instrumentation and memorable lyrics that leave audiences wanting more. It has been performed consistently by the band in their live shows over the years, holding up as an enduring representation of Iron Maiden at their best.
For those seeking an authentic metal experience from a legendary band with longevity, Wasted Years is a must-listen track from Somewhere In Time that will leave you energized and inspired.
Pro Tip: Turn up the volume when listening to this masterpiece to truly appreciate its full potential.
Warning: listening to this epic 13-minute song may result in a sudden urge to grab a sword and become a swashbuckling pirate.
9. Rime Of The Ancient Mariner (Powerslave, 1984)
This iconic track from the 1984 Powerslave album is a true masterpiece, showcasing Iron Maiden's trademark epic storytelling style. With a running time of over thirteen minutes, it takes listeners on a journey through the famous Samuel Taylor Coleridge poem of the same name, following the struggles of a sailor cursed for killing an albatross. The dramatic guitar riffs and soaring vocals perfectly capture the intensity and emotion of the poem, making it one of Iron Maiden's most celebrated songs.
Building on their tradition of incorporating literary references into their music, Rime Of The Ancient Mariner sees Iron Maiden infuse Coleridge's classic tale with their own brand of heavy metal energy. Steve Harris' driving bassline anchors the track, while Bruce Dickinson's passionate vocals bring to life the challenging themes of guilt, punishment and redemption. From start to finish, Rime Of The Ancient Mariner is an unforgettable musical journey that has solidified its place as one of Iron Maiden's finest works.
It is worth noting that this song was not without controversy upon its release due to its length, with radio stations initially reluctant to play a thirteen-minute track. However, its significance in cementing Iron Maiden as true masters of their craft cannot be overstated. From the haunting intro to the final triumphant chorus, Rime Of The Ancient Mariner remains a classic example of how music and literature can come together to create something truly special.
For those who may be intimidated by its length or unfamiliar with Coleridge's work, taking some time to delve deeper into both can enhance appreciation for this incredible piece. And for fans looking to experience it in person, Iron Maiden has continued to include Rime Of The Ancient Mariner in their live sets over the years – a testament to its enduring appeal.
If you're ever in a rush to end the world, just hit the snooze button on Iron Maiden's 2 Minutes To Midnight.
10. 2 Minutes To Midnight (Powerslave, 1984)
This track from Iron Maiden's 1984 album, Powerslave, is known as "10. 2 Minutes To Midnight" according to the ranking list. The song starts with its unforgettable riff and ends with an epic guitar solo. The lyrics are inspired by the Cold War and its implications on society. Its fast-paced tempo and energetic vocals make it a crowd favorite at Maiden concerts.
One of the reasons the song gained a lot of traction was due to its relevance. As the world teetered on the brink of nuclear war both America and Russia were re-arming their stockpiles leading to tensions around the globe.
Interestingly, Bruce Dickinson revealed that two minutes to midnight is actually a reference to the Doomsday Clock created by Bulletin of Atomic Scientists which depicts how much time we all have left before final apocalypse, theoretically speaking.
According to Loudersound, after recording this song in Compass Point Studios in Nassau, Iron Maiden were stranded on an island during Hurricane Gloria which hit New York City in September 1985 while they were mixing the album!
It's no wonder that this track has remained one of Iron Maiden’s most popular songs among fans worldwide even to this day.
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.
