In 2014, the iconic Iron Maiden frontman Bruce Dickinson faced one of the biggest challenges of his life: a diagnosis of throat and tongue cancer. Known for his powerful vocals on classics like “Run to the Hills,” Dickinson’s career and future with Iron Maiden were thrown into uncertainty. Yet, his journey through treatment and recovery exemplifies his resilience and unwavering dedication to the band.
Bruce Dickinson’s Throat Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
When Bruce Dickinson was diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014, his health became his primary concern. The cancerous tumor, discovered at the back of his tongue, was reportedly the size of a “golf ball.” Over the next year, Dickinson underwent an intensive and grueling course of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, lasting seven weeks. Fortunately, his cancer was detected early, and on May 15, 2015, doctors declared him cancer-free. However, his road to recovery and getting back on stage was far from simple.
Bruce Dickinson’s Reflections on His Illness and Iron Maiden’s Future
In a revealing interview on the Rich Roll podcast, Bruce Dickinson reflected on his throat cancer battle and how it affected his outlook on life and music. He admitted that during his illness, his main focus was survival rather than the future of his singing career. “The first thing on my mind is, ‘Am I gonna get through this and be alive?’” he recalled. Only later did he begin to worry about whether he would ever sing again.
Dickinson also revealed that he had mentally prepared himself for the possibility that he might not be able to sing for Iron Maiden in the same way. “I might be able to vocalize, I might be able to sing in a different way, but if I couldn’t sing the way I have to sing with Iron Maiden, I’ll help them find a great replacement,” he explained. For Dickinson, Iron Maiden’s music was “sacrosanct,” and he was ready to support the band even if it meant stepping aside.
Bruce Dickinson’s Return and Iron Maiden’s Legacy
Despite the odds, Dickinson made a triumphant return to music. In the years following his recovery, Iron Maiden continued to create and perform, releasing their latest album, Senjutsu, on September 3, 2021. Dickinson’s enduring commitment to the band is a testament to his passion for heavy metal and his dedication to Iron Maiden’s fans.
The Early Years: Who Bruce Dickinson Replaced in Iron Maiden
Before Bruce Dickinson joined Iron Maiden, the band’s lineup saw several changes. Founded by bassist Steve Harris in 1975, Iron Maiden first featured vocalist Paul Day, who was soon replaced by Dennis Wilcock. The pivotal moment came in 1978 when the band recruited Paul Di’Anno, who brought a new edge to their sound. With Di’Anno, Iron Maiden released their self-titled debut in 1980, featuring hits like “Phantom of the Opera.” However, due to Di’Anno’s struggles with drug use and erratic behavior, he was dismissed in 1981 after the Killer World Tour.
Enter Bruce Dickinson, who became Iron Maiden’s frontman and debuted on the legendary 1982 album The Number of the Beast. The album included career-defining tracks like “Run to the Hills” and the title song, cementing Iron Maiden’s place in rock history. Dickinson remained with the band until 1993, then pursued a solo career, only to return in 1999, where he has stayed ever since.
Iron Maiden’s Tribute to Paul Di’Anno
In a somber turn of events, former frontman Paul Di’Anno, who had faced health issues for many years, passed away in October this year. Iron Maiden paid tribute, stating, “Paul’s contribution to Iron Maiden was immense and helped set us on the path we have been travelling as a band for almost five decades. His pioneering presence as a frontman and vocalist will be very fondly remembered.”
