Formed on Christmas Day in 1975 in East London, Iron Maiden are one of the most important metal bands in the history of the genre. Initially fronted by vocalist Paul Di'Anno, Iron Maiden recruited Bruce Dickinson to front the band in 1981 and began their meteoric rise to legendary status. Dickenson's wailing vocals became a trademark of the band, as did their fast-paced riffs and gruesome mascot, a giant undead head named Eddie. After 40 years and 15 studio albums, the band continues to write, record, and melt faces all over the world.