It’s an indisputable fact that Iron Maiden are one of the biggest and most influential metal bands of all time. Yet there continues to be a vocal division between those who think Paul Di’Anno, who performed on the first two albums, was the band’s best vocalist or if that honor should be bestowed to Bruce Dickinson, who sang on most of the other records. What it comes down to is a matter of taste.
The band’s self-titled debut album, which came out on April 14, 1980, clearly demonstrates the differences between the two singers. Di’Anno had far more limited vocal range, but a more raw, abrasive style that makes songs like “Running Free,” “Charlotte the Harlot” and especially the title track punchy and punk-tinged.