Just over a month ago, on June 17, Iron Maiden’s very first vocalist, Paul Mario Day, shared his farewell song “Unwanted Guest” — a personal goodbye to friends and fans. At the time, Day had been battling cancer for some time and was aware that he didn’t have much time left.
Sadly, that time has now come — Paul Mario Day has passed away.
Paul Mario Day was part of the very first Iron Maiden lineup, dating all the way back to when Steve Harris founded the band on December 25, 1975. Like many of the early members of Iron Maiden, Day’s time in the band was brief. He was replaced in 1976 by Dennis Wilcock, but continued his career in the NWOBHM scene — most notably with the band More, who released an album in 1981, and Wildfire, who put out two albums in 1983 and 1984.
Although Paul Mario Day did not record or receive any official credits with Iron Maiden, it is believed that he contributed to the song “Strange World” from their debut album. In a 2015 Facebook post, Day explained that it was natural he didn’t receive credit, as they were just a small band from East London at the time, and it didn’t seem important.
However, he admitted that it did bother him — knowing he had contributed to a song without anyone ever knowing. In a 2019 interview, Day declined to discuss the matter further, saying it had been settled. This suggests that Iron Maiden may have acknowledged his contribution in some form behind the scenes.
Later, Paul joined Andy Scott’s version of glam rock band Sweet, serving as lead vocalist from 1985 to 1989.
News of his death was first shared by Andy Scott on Sweet’s official Facebook page:
“Paul Mario Day RIP
In 1985, Mick Tucker and I put together the first new line-up of Sweet after the hiatus of the original band. We needed a singer, and when Paul arrived for the audition, we looked no further.
Our first dates were in Australia — total sell-outs, which boded well for the future. Europe followed suit, and three sold-out nights at the Marquee in London produced a live album, video, and DVD. Live at the Marquee did well in various charts around the world, and Paul’s vocal performance has stood the test of time.
PMD was the original singer with Iron Maiden and had a stint with the band More before joining Sweet.
He passed away peacefully at his home in Australia.
My deepest condolences to his wife Cecily, and to his family and friends.
A sad day for all Sweet fans.
Andy x”
Also Paul Mario Day’s former band, More, has posted a statement on their official Facebook account:
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the great MORE vocalist Paul Mario Day.
Paul was a huge part of the NWOBHM from his time in an early version of Iron Maiden and of course his fantastic performance on the Warhead album. He was a well loved figure in British rock music and played many memorable shows not least the legendary 1981 Monsters of Rock show at Castle Donninton with AC/DC Whitesnake/David Coverdale as well as tours with Iron Maiden Def Leppard and many other legendary artists
Mike Freeland remembers him fondly as a ‘bloody great vocalist!’
It’s an honour for us to continue to play his music and we will always think of him every time we hit the opening notes to ‘Warhead’.
We send our deepest condolences to Paul’s family and friends and also the many fans around the world who love his music.
Play his music loud and sing along!
Thank you
Rock in peace Paul
Rest in peace, Paul Mario Day.
UPDATE 30 JULY:
Also Iron Maiden posted their condolence the day after on 20 July:
We are deeply saddened that Paul Mario Day, Iron Maiden’s first ever vocalist back in 1975, has passed away. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to Paul’s family and friends.
Paul was a lovely person and good mate.
Rest in peace Paul.
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