Di'Anno performing in 2008; PC: Wikimedia Commons

Ex-Iron Maiden frontman Paul Di’Anno has announced his retirement from performing, effective 2013. During his tumultuous career, Di’Anno has faced jail stints, receding health and addiction issues, all while consistently delivering rock shows since rising to fame with the NOWBHM outfit in 1980.

Today Di’Anno announced via Facebook: “I am gonna be ‘Pulling The Plug’ next year 2013, and making it my ‘Farewell Tour’…it was good whilst it lasted.”

The announcement took several fans by surprise, several of whom pleaded with the singer to rethink his decision.

Later he added: “I can’t find the right words to tell you all how much I’ll miss you. All of you have my love and respect forever, and anyone who knows me knows that ain’t a load of bollocks. You have kept me going through difficult times, happy times and a lot of heartbreak. I thank you all with all my heart and I’m glad you’re not here right now watching me write this crying like a big Jessie (for you, mates, it means a wuss!). You will be with me always.”

It had been reported a few months back that Di’Anno has been working on a new solo album, although it is not yet known whether he plans to finish the project before stepping down. He currently has 90 shows booked for the rest of the year and he is believed to be planning another series of gigs with fellow ex-Iron Maiden singer Blaze Bayley.

Several have speculated that Di’Anno’s upcoming knee surgery might have played a part in his decision to retire.

Di’Anno, whose real name is Paul Andrews, was the singer for Iron Maiden during the band’s first two albums before being replaced by Bruce Dickinson.

 

 

Original Source