Iron Maiden

Iron Maiden are one of the most successful heavy metal bands in history, having sold more than 85 million records worldwide with little radio or television support. Formed in 1975 in Leyton by Steve Harris, the line up was finally filled up in 1978 by vocalist Paul Di'Anno, who was dismissed from the band in 1981 and taken over by Bruce Dickinson, who gained more popularity with fans until 1993, when he decided to pursue a solo career. After 1993, Blaze Bayleigh from Wolfsbane took over as vocalist, but he got sacked and Bruce Dickinson returned as singer in 1999. Iron Maiden are considered one of the founder members of the New Wave British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement, which gained some popularity in the late 70's and early 80's.
==Links To Peel ==
Peel was originally a fan of some of the New Wave British Heavy Metal music, which combined elements of punk with heavy metal, that included bands such as Iron Maiden, Motorhead, Girlschool  and Def Leppard, who often got played on his shows. After 1980/81, Peel rarely played any of their music on his playlist.  
Bruce Dickinson's cousin, Rob Dickinson, later became singer of indie band Catherine Wheel in the 90's, a group that performed a session for Peel's show and who were often played on his programmes between 1991 and 1992. 
==Shows Played==
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;1980
*12 February 1980: Running Free (7") EMI
*26 March 1980: Running Free (7") EMI
== Top Of The Pops ==
*07 July 1983 (TOTP): The Trooper #12
==External Links==
*Wikipedia
*Official Website
Category:Artists