Paul Mario Day Dies At 69

British heavy metal legends IRON MAIDEN have paid tribute to their original singer Paul Mario Day, who died earlier this week at the age of 69. The British-born musician, who later formed a band called MORE and was the frontman of WILDFIRE and SWEET, had reportedly been battling cancer for the last few years.

"We are deeply saddened that Paul Mario Day, IRON MAIDEN's first ever vocalist back in 1975, has passed away," MAIDEN wrote on social media. "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."

Day's passing was confirmed by SWEET guitarist Andy Scott, who wrote in a social media post on Tuesday, July 29: "Paul Mario Day RIP. In 1985 Mick Tucker and myself 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 3 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.