Iron Maiden are considered one of the most important heavy metal bands in history. As pioneers of the "New Wave of British Heavy Metal" (NWOBHM), they are now regarded as icons of rock and metal music; their image and sound have inspired literally thousands of artists across various subgenres of heavy metal and heavy rock over the band’s 40-year professional career. The group’s achievements established a developmental blueprint for modern heavy metal. Their unique blend of punk rock, early metal, and progressive rock—characterized by electrifying guitar virtuosity, a driving rhythm section, and expressive vocal performances—served as a milestone in the evolution of the genre. MTV ranked them as the fourth most significant band in the development of heavy rock, and in 2005, they were inducted into the "RockWalk of Fame" in California. VH1 Classic named Iron Maiden the third most important heavy metal band of all time. The group also appeared in the top 10 of a list of the "Greatest Bands in History" published by the influential portal LOUDERSOUND.COM, and was included in the top 30 of a list of the "Most Popular Bands of All Time" by the American website 247wallst.com. The band’s classic albums have frequently appeared at the top of rankings for the greatest rock and metal records of all time.
Numerous releases and projects have also been created as tributes to this British band. Reinterpretations of the band’s work encompass a wide array of stylistic variations, including numerous subgenres of rock and metal, as well as soul, pop, classical, symphonic, alternative, electronic, techno, industrial, hip-hop, rap, reggae, ska, jazz, choral arrangements, pastiches, piano music, early music, string-based compositions, and acoustic versions featuring a broad spectrum of classical instruments. Just as significant as their music is the band’s image and the accompanying aesthetic—developed in the 1980s by Derek Riggs—along with the iconic typeface (METAL LORD™) associated with the group’s classic logo. This logotype is based on a distinctive lettering style originally used on cinema posters for the 1976 science fiction film *The Man Who Fell to Earth*, which starred David Bowie. Popularized globally through the artwork created for Iron Maiden, this font is frequently employed for the logos of music websites, merchandise stores, press articles, and events themed around the heavy metal or rock subculture. Iron Maiden is regarded as a British institution, one of the greatest live acts in history, and a timeless brand.
The group has remained steadfastly committed to the musical style and aesthetic conventions they established over the years, avoiding any compromises—such as those driven by opportunism or commercialism—that might otherwise align them with fleeting trends. For millions of fans, the band remains synonymous with the very term "heavy metal." In a poll held in conjunction with the Diamond Jubilee of the British Queen, the album *The Number of the Beast* (1982) was voted the best British record. The immense success of both the album and its title track, "The Number of the Beast," played a significant role in establishing the biblical "Number of the Beast"—666—as an enduring element of heavy metal’s visual symbolism and a recurring lyrical theme across numerous compositions and albums within the broader realm of extreme music. The records produced by the band during their so-called "classic period" (1980–1988) are considered among the most outstanding achievements in the history of heavy rock.
Iron Maiden introduced elements drawn from "upper culture"—such as historiography, cinema, literature, and philosophy—into heavy metal, enriching this otherwise insular subgenre with progressive, epic, and even poetic qualities. Iron Maiden is arguably one of the bands most deeply influenced by philosophy, mythology, history, classic literature, and cinema in the history of popular music; in this regard, they have inspired a multitude of followers—of varying degrees of talent—within the genre. Ultimately, it was this British band that transformed heavy metal into an art form, one that began to be appreciated for its artistic merit, rooted in the legacy of high culture. According to prominent experts and internationally recognized music journalists—authors of numerous biographies and studies on rock music in the broadest sense, such as Joe Shooman, Neil Daniels, Geoff Barton, Martin Popoff, Malcolm Dome, Eddie Trunk, Mick Wall, Garry Bushell, Chris Welch, Masa Itoh, and Dom Lawson—Iron Maiden, as pioneers of their era, alongside other classic British acts like Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, and Motörhead, as well as American bands such as Metallica and Slayer (who drew inspiration from the "NWOBHM" school), played a fundamental role in defining and shaping the long-term development of the phenomenon known as referred to by the term "heavy metal."
The activities of Iron Maiden, the band's influence on culture at large, and their body of work have become the subject of numerous studies within sociology, cultural anthropology, musicology, and related subdisciplines of the humanities and social sciences. These analyses have given rise to a wealth of publications and articles, ranging from popular-science texts to strictly academic research. According to the panel of journalists and artists responsible for nominations to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Iron Maiden released seven high-octane studio albums during the 1980s. These records cemented the band's status as one of the world's greatest rock acts, establishing a blueprint for how heavy metal bands should look, sound, and organize their concert tours. By blending punk, early metal, and progressive rock—featuring a thrilling assault of twin guitars, a driving rhythm section, and powerful vocals—the band was consistently able to reach extraordinary heights, taking their audience on an expressive, atmospheric journey. Each subsequent album charted a new path for the evolution of metal music, expanding the boundaries of the genre and inspiring countless other artists. As noted by the editors of the American magazine *Rolling Stone*, Iron Maiden introduced a sense of optimism, hope, strength, and romantic drama to metal—a departure from the darker, more somber tone favored by the genre's mid-1970s pioneers (such as Black Sabbath, Cream, and Judas Priest).
Following the release of their debut album in 1980, Iron Maiden expanded the vocabulary of heavy metal—and, by extension, rock music—with new forms of expression. In *The Rolling Stone Illustrated History of Rock & Roll*, music critic Lester Bangs described metal as the "sonic equivalent of a battering ram," adding that by the end of the 1970s—an era dominated by punk rock—it seemed as though heavy metal had already reached its limit. As the book was published in early 1980, its author had not yet had the chance to hear the music of Iron Maiden, who sounded not merely like a battering ram, but also like a fighter jet, a thousand charging horses, and an air-raid siren—all happening at once. As noted by the editors of the website MetalInjection.com, the classic body of work from this British band serves as a cornerstone of modern metal. Lars Ulrich, the leader and co-founder of Metallica, has frequently spoken about the significant influence the band had on his own group and on the evolution of heavy metal: "More than any other band, they helped open the doors for heavy metal in the eighties… They never gave up, and as a result, they became a huge inspiration for bands like ours… They were always a few steps ahead of everyone else—they had better album art, better stage shows, and better marketing than anyone else. They inspired Metallica more than anyone. They had a massive impact on our band and on metal as a whole." Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett has admitted that his favorite album cover is the one from the British band’s debut, and that the track "Phantom of the Opera"—featured on that same record—had the greatest influence on the development of his playing technique. According to Hammett, elements characteristic of "Phantom of the Opera" can still be heard in Metallica’s sound today.
This view is echoed by Charlie Benante, drummer for the band Anthrax: "Iron Maiden—who doesn't know them? They, along with 'Eddie,' changed the face of heavy metal. I have a great deal of respect for them; they made every subsequent metal band want to achieve what they had. Maiden represented something entirely different—they were a massive challenge and an inspiration. It was a completely new style of hard rock and metal, built on a punk-like drive, a progressive approach, and guitar harmonies. They set new rules for the game. I often say: 'Without Maiden, there is no Big 4!'" Former Metallica bassist Jason Newsted stated that two bands had a profound impact on what Metallica ultimately achieved: the hard rock group AC/DC and the heavy metal band Iron Maiden. Kerry King—guitarist, songwriter, and co-founder of Slayer—pointed to the albums *Killers* and *The Number of the Beast* as some of the most perfect examples within the genre, and he viewed the British band as one of his greatest sources of inspiration in his own musical pursuits. Musicians from the thrash metal scene frequently highlight the contributions of the band’s former drummer, Clive Burr, in redefining the sound of the rhythm section in modern metal.
According to Scott Ian and Mike Portnoy, the late Iron Maiden drummer deserves special recognition for establishing the blueprint for the role of drums in contemporary heavy metal. Blackie Lawless, leader of the American band W.A.S.P., has stated that very few musicians in the history of drumming have left as distinctive a mark as Nicko McBrain—whose awards, trophies, and achievements are far too numerous to list. Geddy Lee, the Canadian musician and composer best known for his long-standing work with the band Rush, regarded McBrain as one of the most talented and truly iconic drummers in the history of rock and heavy metal. Serj Tankian, frontman and vocalist of System of a Down, recalls being deeply impressed by the spectacle Iron Maiden presented during their *World Slavery Tour*—an experience he compares to Pink Floyd’s *The Wall* production. It was from that point on that the Armenian-American artist became interested in the metal scene, and Iron Maiden’s signature "galloping" rhythms went on to significantly influence the music of SOAD.
In his view, the entire rock genre has been shaped by the British band. Jerry Cantrell, co-founder and guitarist of Alice in Chains, states that his fascination with Iron Maiden had a major impact on the sound of the legendary American grunge band. Beyond the influence of the British group’s music on certain Alice in Chains compositions, Cantrell has noted that the guitar duo of Smith and Murray served as a model he sought to emulate within his own band. Iron Maiden’s first three studio albums, along with the individual playing styles of their guitarists, played a significant role in shaping the musical path of Stone Gossard—co-founder and guitarist of Pearl Jam. According to Keith Wilford, Iron Maiden were among the first rock acts to make extensive use of technology and interactive media for promotional purposes, back when the Internet was only just beginning to gain popularity. The group was not only among the first to utilize the Internet on a large scale—as early as 1995—but also became a pioneer by creating the first-ever PC game integrated with the music and image of a musical artist, setting a precedent for all subsequent projects of this kind. The band’s influence extends well beyond the realms of music and subculture.
Concepts implemented by their management and stage production team have served as inspiration for other artists within the broad spectrum of rock music. The management duo of Smallwood and Taylor is among the most respected and accomplished in the music industry, serving as an inspiration for entrepreneurs who wish to develop their business ventures "on their own terms." From the very beginning, the band cultivated a highly distinctive and original musical style within their genre. According to Geoff Barton, the band’s music served as a vital bridge between the rhythm ‘n’ blues-based classic heavy rock of the late 1960s and early 1970s and modern heavy metal—a genre characterized by subgenre diversification and stylistic and sonic eclecticism. The band’s guitarist, Adrian Smith, described their musical style as follows: "People say Maiden is metal, and I suppose they’re right, but you can find many other influences in our music—for instance, elements drawn from folk music. In its own way, our style also contains a strong blues influence, particularly in the guitar solos and the scales used. Maiden’s music is quite unique; it’s a blend of many different things." You can even find progressive, jazz, and classical music influences.
Music journalist John Tucker noted that Iron Maiden was the first metal band in history to combine several extremes: a punk-style vocalist, a metal band, and a progressive approach to compositional structure—an approach later developed by bands such as Metallica and the entire thrash metal movement. According to Götz Kühnemund, former editor of the German magazine *Rock Hard*, Iron Maiden was—and remains—an inspiration for all the heavy metal bands we know today, as they are a quintessential heavy metal group. They are equally significant for those playing power, speed, thrash, death, or black metal, as well as hard rock—the whole spectrum. Maiden took the hard rock of the 1970s, carried it into the 1980s, and created an entirely new genre. It was Maiden that introduced the "do-it-yourself" (DIY) ethos to rock music as a whole. Furthermore, Iron Maiden popularized the use of guitar harmonies within metal; many contemporary metal bands feature two guitarists who employ dual guitar harmonies, drawing inspiration from Iron Maiden in this regard.
As noted by British manager, music PR specialist, and author of numerous biographies, Joe Shooman, Iron Maiden is frequently described—both in music media and specialized literature—as a pioneer of modern metal, the biggest British metal band, the premier heavy metal act, the greatest classic heavy metal band of all time, and the most prominent representative of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM). Jörg Pistorius, a German music journalist, argued that no single band can claim to have created or invented heavy metal. There is, however, one band that shaped it and was largely responsible for turning it into a globally recognizable style—a market segment with significant sales potential. (…) Iron Maiden played fast-paced guitar riffs crackling with energy, combined with harmonious melodies and choruses that one could sing along to instantly. No band has shaped heavy metal as profoundly as Iron Maiden. In his book *Sound of the Beast*, Ian Christe argues that Iron Maiden were instrumental in the further evolution of the genre under the banner of the "New Wave of British Heavy Metal" (NWOBHM). He posits that Iron Maiden—alongside Judas Priest—are primarily responsible for the genre's major development. While AC/DC and Black Sabbath remained rooted in a more primal, darker sound, Iron Maiden and Judas Priest transformed the use of twin-guitar harmonies, creating something entirely new.
Martin Popoff, a Canadian journalist, professional music critic, and author of numerous works on heavier forms of rock, has noted that no other band from the NWOBHM movement achieved a scale of success comparable to that of Steve Harris’s group. According to Popoff, Saxon fell behind, Motörhead remained a cult act, and Def Leppard shifted their style entirely; only Iron Maiden continued on an upward trajectory. Regarding the band’s standing on the musical landscape of 2025, he suggests that while Metallica—given their massive concert productions, innovative promotional strategies, and global reach—might be considered the greatest metal band of all time, Iron Maiden, with their enduring legacy, can be regarded as the second most significant act in the history of the genre.
Michael "Away" Langevin, a musician in the progressive metal band Voivod, argues that Iron Maiden’s debut album served as a benchmark for a new approach to heavy metal, blending elements of punk rock, classic hard rock, progressive rock, British metal, and an underground aesthetic—best exemplified by the comic-book-style artwork and the record’s raw sound. It was music for a new generation, charting a path forward for heavy metal, including thrash metal and, eventually, progressive metal. Max Cavalera and Andreas Kisser of the Brazilian band Sepultura point to Steve Harris’s group as the act that introduced them to the world of heavy metal and even inspired them to learn English. Richie Faulkner, guitarist for Judas Priest—who also worked with Lauren Harris, the daughter of the Iron Maiden leader—has acknowledged that Steve Harris had a significant influence on him regarding stage presence, the approach to live performances, and the work ethic required of a professional musician.
Joey Tempest, vocalist for the Swedish band Europe, states that Iron Maiden served as a major inspiration for him and his bandmates early in their careers. According to Tempest, "Iron Maiden had these melodies and a certain attitude that impressed us—a combination of heavy metal and art rock, along with a galloping rhythm section, which you can hear in our hit 'The Final Countdown'." Matt Bellamy, frontman of the British band Muse, has admitted that he and his bandmates always admired Steve Harris’s group: "Iron Maiden was a British band with a bit of a punk edge. 'Phantom of the Opera' isn't as pompous or overly classical as some other metal tracks." There is something furious and terrifying about it. That is why we have always admired Iron Maiden. We drew from them the use of the minor scale and a progressive approach to arrangements, even though we don’t sound like them and operate within a different genre. We hold them in high regard as musicians—especially Steve Harris, who is one of the best bassists alive today.
Rosana Miho, known for her work with the Japanese band Lovebites, described the role of Iron Maiden’s debut album—and the band itself—in shaping heavy metal music as follows: Iron Maiden’s debut is the most important metal album of the last 50 years. It is so significant because of its unprecedented sound, which fuses progressive rock, hard rock, and the energy of punk. This album is the cornerstone of a new kind of metal. The music it contains remains original and fresh; it is an iconic album in every respect. You can hear Iron Maiden’s influence in the work of countless artists who followed them, as well as in the music of entirely new bands on the scene. It is no exaggeration to say that without Iron Maiden, modern metal would be something completely different.
Rafael Bittencourt, guitarist for the Brazilian band Angra, views Iron Maiden as the group that definitively established power metal as a distinct subgenre of heavy music. World-renowned pop singer Lady Gaga has stated that the British group is one of the greatest rock bands of all time. She admires what Iron Maiden has achieved throughout their career and intends to follow a similar path herself: "Seeing the dedication of the fans—moving to the rhythm, pumping their fists, taking in the show—I see a paradigm for my own future and the kind of relationship I want to have with my own fans. Iron Maiden never had a radio hit, yet they sell out stadiums all over the world; their fans live, breathe, and would die for Maiden—that is my dream. I don’t want to be the next Madonna; I want to be the next Iron Maiden."
Miley Cyrus has also admitted that Steve Harris’s band is among her favorites, noting that their music played a significant role in shaping her musical taste. K.K. Downing (former guitarist and co-founder of the band Judas Priest) confessed: "Although their [Iron Maiden’s] music doesn’t quite align with my specific taste, I cannot deny that they have had a major influence on heavy metal and music in general. As a Brit, I am incredibly proud of what they have managed to achieve over all these years and how they carved out a unique niche for themselves. Furthermore, I have always admired them for achieving such immense commercial success through their marketing efforts alone. They have definitely surpassed us!"
Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, leaders of the American band KISS—known for their generally cool, detached attitude toward the work of other artists—have repeatedly pointed to Iron Maiden as one of the most important groups in history, asserting that there has been nothing of this magnitude in rock music for many years. Paul Stanley described the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame committee’s long-standing decision to ignore the band as "complete madness," especially given that Iron Maiden played a pivotal role in the full emergence of a new musical genre. Johnny Cash, the American country musician, singer, and actor, frequently expressed his respect for heavy metal artists, specifically Iron Maiden and Metallica. According to American guitar virtuoso Chris Impellitteri, Iron Maiden has influenced virtually every heavy metal band through their music, their brand, and their songwriting talent. Few bands possess a vocalist like Bruce Dickinson, who could easily hold his own against some of the greatest tenors in history, such as Luciano Pavarotti or Andrea Bocelli. Harris’s compositions, the twin-guitar attack of Murray and Smith, and the drumming of Burr and McBrain played a pivotal role in the creation of numerous musical masterpieces, leaving an indelible mark on heavy music from 1980 onwards. One must also acknowledge the contribution of Paul Di’Anno; even their manager, Rod Smallwood, has become a legend within the music industry.
According to Tobias Forge, frontman of the Swedish band Ghost, Iron Maiden exerted a profound influence on his group and on metal music as a whole. This influence is evident across various dimensions: musical, aesthetic, thematic, and visual, as well as in the distinctive staging of their live concerts. Forge highlights, in particular, the work ethic embodied by the musicians of the British band. He also notes that many of the group’s compositions are written in a major key—a rarity in heavy metal. Joe Parrish, guitarist for Jethro Tull, cites Iron Maiden as an enduring inspiration—the gateway through which he first discovered the world of heavy music. This fascination left a lasting imprint on his playing style and helped shape his musical tastes. Sammy Urwin of the band Employed to Serve remarked: "(...) their influence is absolutely massive; Maiden are fun. They really stand out to people, especially within the hardcore scene. While everyone there is into Sabbath and Priest, Maiden is perhaps the most 'Marmite' [polarizing] of the three. They have undoubtedly had a major impact on the entire metalcore genre." For bands like Prayer For Cleansing, Unearth, and Darkest Hour, the influence of albums such as *The Number of the Beast* is undeniable.
Mikael Åkerfeldt—frontman, vocalist, and guitarist for the Swedish progressive metal band Opeth—has stated that it is difficult to overstate the massive impact the first two Iron Maiden albums, recorded with Paul Di’Anno, had on the subsequent evolution of metal music. According to the Swedish musician, the album *Killers* is arguably the best "gateway" heavy metal record in history. Christian Jost—also known as Falk Maria Schlegel of the German band Powerwolf—confessed: "*Piece of Mind* brings together everything that heavy metal is associated with, and everything that fascinates me about the genre: a certain darkness and a healthy dose of melancholy, enriched by immense power and energy." He added, "Mr. Steve Harris and his Iron Maiden were the reason I decided to form a heavy metal band." Chris Shiflett, known for his work with the Foo Fighters, revealed that while he was growing up, Iron Maiden were "GODS" to him, and it was through them that he first became interested in heavy music. Dee Snider, frontman of the American band Twisted Sister, admitted that Iron Maiden’s signature "galloping" style—famously heard on the track "Run to the Hills"—inspired one of his own band’s biggest hits, 1984’s "I Wanna Rock." Snider highlighted the unique interplay of the rhythm section—Harris and Burr—whose synchronized performance and distinctive sound have inspired literally thousands of artists, particularly those from the thrash metal generation.
Tracii Guns, co-founder of Guns N’ Roses and leader of the band L.A. Guns... Guns considered the album *Killers* to be one of the releases that completely changed his life. The musician described the offering from Iron Maiden as a hybrid of Thin Lizzy-style hard rock, punk-rock intensity and energy, and high-octane heavy metal—a combination that represented something entirely new at the time of its release. Duff McKagan, the bassist for Guns N’ Roses, pointed to the album *The Number of the Beast*...*The Number of the Beast*—as the quintessential embodiment of the term "metal" within rock music—played a significant role in shaping the bassist’s own musical tastes. Neil Daniels points out that, beyond their large-scale integration of progressive and epic elements into metal, one of the most striking examples of Iron Maiden’s compositional influence on the genre is the instrumental miniature "The Ides of March" (composed in 1978/79), which opens the band’s second studio album, *Killers* (1981). It was the first composition of its kind in the genre’s history—built upon a percussive, marching staccato and dramatic, dynamic guitar interplay—and it became a blueprint for the heavy metal album intros (or preludes to individual tracks) used by countless other artists. Daniels further argues that the influence of Iron Maiden on subsequent generations of rock and metal bands is immeasurable. Even looking at just a small sample, Maiden’s impact is evident in groups such as Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, Anthrax, and Annihilator, as well as in younger acts like Slipknot, Korn, Fozzy, Avenged Sevenfold, In Flames, and Trivium. This list alone serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the band.
Brian Slagel, owner of the record label Metal Blade Records, remarked: "Iron Maiden’s *The Number of the Beast* remains the perfect template for a metal album to this day. Everything is flawless—the sound, the songs, the lyrics. It is the ultimate heavy metal album because it is complete." Forty years later, the influence of *The Number of the Beast* can be heard across a wide spectrum of contemporary heavy music; in fact, it is far easier to list prominent metal musicians who *don’t* cite this record as an inspiration than those who do. For me, this coincided with a period when I was becoming deeply immersed in the entire metal scene. I started my own record label—a turning point that defined what I would do for the rest of my life! Iron Maiden motivated me to do everything in my power to ensure others could hear this incredible music. It was a life-changing experience.
According to Stjepan Juras, the album *Powerslave* (1984) definitively cemented the band’s status as the greatest heavy metal group of all time. While other artists in rock history may have sold more records or played to larger venues, Iron Maiden achieved something far more valuable. Through numerous references to classical literature, cinema, and culture at large, the band’s work served an educational purpose for millions of listeners—broadening their social and emotional intelligence, shaping their imaginations, and inspiring further exploration and personal growth, particularly at times when traditional formal schooling fell short. As a heavy metal band, they were absolute pioneers in this regard; not only did they inspire legions of followers, but they also helped reshape the global perspective on the value and role of metal music.
Bob McParland, a professor of English and the humanities at Felician College in New Jersey, has undertaken a comprehensive analysis of "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner." Summarizing the insights shared on the literary scholar’s personal blog, it is worth noting that this epic interpretation of Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s work—which closes the album *Powerslave*—stands as an absolute *tour de force* by the British band, effectively transforming the genre. The musicians elevated classic heavy metal—a style often characterized by a rather conservative, "mechanical" formula—to an entirely new level, one that allows this form of expression to be recognized as a full-fledged art form. Their skill in constructing a narrative, reinterpreting a classic piece of English Romantic literature, cultivating atmosphere, and aligning the musical layer with the lyrics is truly remarkable. In terms of arrangement, composition, the ability to harness chaos, and the masterful use of dramaturgy, one can draw parallels here to Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3 ("Eroica"). Opera composer Lee Bradshaw cites the work of Iron Maiden as one of his inspirations, highlighting the multidimensional nature of the band’s output and its clear affinities with progressive and classical music.
Martin M. Jacobsen, an associate professor of English and author of the book *Pieces of Minds: The Intellectual Tradition of Iron Maiden*, argues that "Iron Maiden’s particular innovation manifested itself not only in their musical adaptations but also in the overt display of their intellectual interests. Iron Maiden... pays homage to a robust, predominantly Western, intellectual tradition, drawing freely upon numerous themes from literature, history, cinema, and philosophy—much in the same way that they highlighted the musical influences of the bands that preceded them." The group’s penchant for drawing inspiration from classic British literature and incorporating it into their heavy music is as did the editorial team at the influential British newspaper *The Guardian*.
Gary Holt, one of the most talented metal guitarists, confessed that encountering the work of Iron Maiden was a game-changer in his musical education, while Steve Harris has been—and remains—an absolute benchmark for generations of metal bassists. The signature techniques employed by the English bassist proved that, within the heavy metal genre, the bass guitar could play a role just as significant as that of the lead guitar; this established Harris as one of the first true icons in the history of the genre. Together with drummer Nicko McBrain, he forged a rhythm section with a distinctive sound—one rooted in precise collaboration—which has inspired countless imitators to further refine their own musical craft. The bassist’s unique playing style, when set against the contributions of the other musicians, was often described as "Harris’s right-hand attack versus the rest of the world." The 35th anniversary of the release of the iconic album *Seventh Son of a Seventh Son* served as the catalyst for the project "The Legacy – A Tribute To Iron Maiden," created by musicians from the bands CETI and Wolf Spider. The album exerted a profound influence on the evolution of heavy metal—particularly its more atmospheric or mood-driven iterations, as explored by subsequent generations of artists.
According to British music journalist Garry Bushell, few bands in the history of heavy metal can claim to have had as significant and lasting an impact on the genre’s development as Iron Maiden. Few can claim to have spearheaded a new musical movement or subgenre. Among the acts that emerged during the "new wave" of heavy music at the turn of the 1970s and 1980s, Iron Maiden were the first to propel uncompromising heavy metal into a global phenomenon, exerting a profound influence on numerous other artists—including Metallica. Radio journalist and music critic Scott Penfold has noted that Iron Maiden’s impact on the genre is incalculable; not only did they inspire subsequent generations of metal bands, but they also revolutionized live performance through their elaborate stage productions, further cementing their status as pioneers of heavy metal. Steve Harris is considered one of the most influential musicians and composers in the history of heavy rock. He is responsible for the lion's share of Iron Maiden’s repertoire and established the archetypal compositional template for modern metal. In addition to writing riffs, vocal melodies, and lyrics for the majority of the band's songs, he has also been involved in production and audiovisual editing. The riffs he created rank among the most memorable in history, as evidenced by tracks such as "The Trooper," "The Number of the Beast," "Phantom of the Opera," "Run to the Hills," and "Hallowed Be Thy Name." The founder of Iron Maiden has frequently been hailed as the greatest and most influential metal bassist of all time. He is also the originator of the band's highly expressive, "galloping" bass lines. His compositional style was built upon triplets—consisting of sixteenth and eighth notes—which created intense rhythmic foundations for a dual (and later, triple) guitar attack. Steve Harris is one of the few bassists capable of playing with such extreme speed and density—using only his fingers. This ability became a unique phenomenon within the entire heavy metal scene. According to the editors of *Ultimate Classic Rock*, achieving such high speed and dynamic range without the use of a standard guitar pick was technically incredibly impressive.
The Iron Maiden leader has inspired a multitude of future musicians, including prominent bassists such as Cliff Burton, Jason Newsted, Frankie Bello, and Robert Trujillo. Former Whitesnake bassist Michael Devin highlights the uniqueness of Harris’s playing style; he notes that the British musician’s right-hand technique remained a mystery to him, and that the way Harris achieved his signature sound is inimitable and one-of-a-kind. Devin observed that, in many respects, Harris’s approach resembles techniques taught in jazz, making his style truly unique within the genre. American bassist David Ellefson—best known for his work with Megadeth—argues that Steve Harris proved a bassist could take a leading role in the live performance of heavy metal music. Ellefson explained his perspective as follows: "Steve Harris changed the perception of the bass, because previously, the bassist was just the background of a metal band. The bass was usually in the background, serving a supporting role." Steve moved him to the very front of the stage. He was a frontman, right alongside the lead singer. To me, Iron Maiden always had two frontmen: Steve and either Paul Di’Anno or Bruce Dickinson—and, I suppose, Blaze Bayley for a while, too. In my view, Steve accounts for 50 percent of that band. In doing so, he paved the way for other bassists. He influenced every bass player in the thrash scene—people like Dan Lilker, Frank Bello, Cliff Burton and I—we were let off the leash. We realized it was perfectly fine to step out to the forefront, both in terms of sound and visuals. The commercial success of the British band served as a major creative catalyst for literally thousands of artists across the globe. It is fair to say that the group’s influence on the development of the genre—bringing its controversial, metal-oriented image and, above all, its uncompromising music into the mainstream consciousness—can hardly be overstated. Since 1980, the work and visual aesthetic of Iron Maiden have served as a vital, enduring source of inspiration, acting as a gateway into the world of heavy metal for millions of listeners and countless musicians who went on to form their own bands. Given their contributions to shaping the genre, the band is often referred to as the "Godfathers of British Heavy Metal" or the "Rolling Stones of Metal"—distinct from Black Sabbath, who are widely recognized as the "Godfathers of Metal."
The group has remained steadfastly committed to the musical style and aesthetic conventions they established over the years, avoiding any compromises—such as those driven by opportunism or commercialism—that might otherwise align them with fleeting trends. For millions of fans, the band remains synonymous with the very term "heavy metal." In a poll held in conjunction with the Diamond Jubilee of the British Queen, the album *The Number of the Beast* (1982) was voted the best British record. The immense success of both the album and its title track, "The Number of the Beast," played a significant role in establishing the biblical "Number of the Beast"—666—as an enduring element of heavy metal’s visual symbolism and a recurring lyrical theme across numerous compositions and albums within the broader realm of extreme music. The records produced by the band during their so-called "classic period" (1980–1988) are considered among the most outstanding achievements in the history of heavy rock.
Iron Maiden introduced elements drawn from "upper culture"—such as historiography, cinema, literature, and philosophy—into heavy metal, enriching this otherwise insular subgenre with progressive, epic, and even poetic qualities. Iron Maiden is arguably one of the bands most deeply influenced by philosophy, mythology, history, classic literature, and cinema in the history of popular music; in this regard, they have inspired a multitude of followers—of varying degrees of talent—within the genre. Ultimately, it was this British band that transformed heavy metal into an art form, one that began to be appreciated for its artistic merit, rooted in the legacy of high culture. According to prominent experts and internationally recognized music journalists—authors of numerous biographies and studies on rock music in the broadest sense, such as Joe Shooman, Neil Daniels, Geoff Barton, Martin Popoff, Malcolm Dome, Eddie Trunk, Mick Wall, Garry Bushell, Chris Welch, Masa Itoh, and Dom Lawson—Iron Maiden, as pioneers of their era, alongside other classic British acts like Black Sabbath, Judas Priest, and Motörhead, as well as American bands such as Metallica and Slayer (who drew inspiration from the "NWOBHM" school), played a fundamental role in defining and shaping the long-term development of the phenomenon known as referred to by the term "heavy metal."
The activities of Iron Maiden, the band's influence on culture at large, and their body of work have become the subject of numerous studies within sociology, cultural anthropology, musicology, and related subdisciplines of the humanities and social sciences. These analyses have given rise to a wealth of publications and articles, ranging from popular-science texts to strictly academic research. According to the panel of journalists and artists responsible for nominations to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Iron Maiden released seven high-octane studio albums during the 1980s. These records cemented the band's status as one of the world's greatest rock acts, establishing a blueprint for how heavy metal bands should look, sound, and organize their concert tours. By blending punk, early metal, and progressive rock—featuring a thrilling assault of twin guitars, a driving rhythm section, and powerful vocals—the band was consistently able to reach extraordinary heights, taking their audience on an expressive, atmospheric journey. Each subsequent album charted a new path for the evolution of metal music, expanding the boundaries of the genre and inspiring countless other artists. As noted by the editors of the American magazine *Rolling Stone*, Iron Maiden introduced a sense of optimism, hope, strength, and romantic drama to metal—a departure from the darker, more somber tone favored by the genre's mid-1970s pioneers (such as Black Sabbath, Cream, and Judas Priest).
Following the release of their debut album in 1980, Iron Maiden expanded the vocabulary of heavy metal—and, by extension, rock music—with new forms of expression. In *The Rolling Stone Illustrated History of Rock & Roll*, music critic Lester Bangs described metal as the "sonic equivalent of a battering ram," adding that by the end of the 1970s—an era dominated by punk rock—it seemed as though heavy metal had already reached its limit. As the book was published in early 1980, its author had not yet had the chance to hear the music of Iron Maiden, who sounded not merely like a battering ram, but also like a fighter jet, a thousand charging horses, and an air-raid siren—all happening at once. As noted by the editors of the website MetalInjection.com, the classic body of work from this British band serves as a cornerstone of modern metal. Lars Ulrich, the leader and co-founder of Metallica, has frequently spoken about the significant influence the band had on his own group and on the evolution of heavy metal: "More than any other band, they helped open the doors for heavy metal in the eighties… They never gave up, and as a result, they became a huge inspiration for bands like ours… They were always a few steps ahead of everyone else—they had better album art, better stage shows, and better marketing than anyone else. They inspired Metallica more than anyone. They had a massive impact on our band and on metal as a whole." Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett has admitted that his favorite album cover is the one from the British band’s debut, and that the track "Phantom of the Opera"—featured on that same record—had the greatest influence on the development of his playing technique. According to Hammett, elements characteristic of "Phantom of the Opera" can still be heard in Metallica’s sound today.
This view is echoed by Charlie Benante, drummer for the band Anthrax: "Iron Maiden—who doesn't know them? They, along with 'Eddie,' changed the face of heavy metal. I have a great deal of respect for them; they made every subsequent metal band want to achieve what they had. Maiden represented something entirely different—they were a massive challenge and an inspiration. It was a completely new style of hard rock and metal, built on a punk-like drive, a progressive approach, and guitar harmonies. They set new rules for the game. I often say: 'Without Maiden, there is no Big 4!'" Former Metallica bassist Jason Newsted stated that two bands had a profound impact on what Metallica ultimately achieved: the hard rock group AC/DC and the heavy metal band Iron Maiden. Kerry King—guitarist, songwriter, and co-founder of Slayer—pointed to the albums *Killers* and *The Number of the Beast* as some of the most perfect examples within the genre, and he viewed the British band as one of his greatest sources of inspiration in his own musical pursuits. Musicians from the thrash metal scene frequently highlight the contributions of the band’s former drummer, Clive Burr, in redefining the sound of the rhythm section in modern metal.
According to Scott Ian and Mike Portnoy, the late Iron Maiden drummer deserves special recognition for establishing the blueprint for the role of drums in contemporary heavy metal. Blackie Lawless, leader of the American band W.A.S.P., has stated that very few musicians in the history of drumming have left as distinctive a mark as Nicko McBrain—whose awards, trophies, and achievements are far too numerous to list. Geddy Lee, the Canadian musician and composer best known for his long-standing work with the band Rush, regarded McBrain as one of the most talented and truly iconic drummers in the history of rock and heavy metal. Serj Tankian, frontman and vocalist of System of a Down, recalls being deeply impressed by the spectacle Iron Maiden presented during their *World Slavery Tour*—an experience he compares to Pink Floyd’s *The Wall* production. It was from that point on that the Armenian-American artist became interested in the metal scene, and Iron Maiden’s signature "galloping" rhythms went on to significantly influence the music of SOAD.
In his view, the entire rock genre has been shaped by the British band. Jerry Cantrell, co-founder and guitarist of Alice in Chains, states that his fascination with Iron Maiden had a major impact on the sound of the legendary American grunge band. Beyond the influence of the British group’s music on certain Alice in Chains compositions, Cantrell has noted that the guitar duo of Smith and Murray served as a model he sought to emulate within his own band. Iron Maiden’s first three studio albums, along with the individual playing styles of their guitarists, played a significant role in shaping the musical path of Stone Gossard—co-founder and guitarist of Pearl Jam. According to Keith Wilford, Iron Maiden were among the first rock acts to make extensive use of technology and interactive media for promotional purposes, back when the Internet was only just beginning to gain popularity. The group was not only among the first to utilize the Internet on a large scale—as early as 1995—but also became a pioneer by creating the first-ever PC game integrated with the music and image of a musical artist, setting a precedent for all subsequent projects of this kind. The band’s influence extends well beyond the realms of music and subculture.
Concepts implemented by their management and stage production team have served as inspiration for other artists within the broad spectrum of rock music. The management duo of Smallwood and Taylor is among the most respected and accomplished in the music industry, serving as an inspiration for entrepreneurs who wish to develop their business ventures "on their own terms." From the very beginning, the band cultivated a highly distinctive and original musical style within their genre. According to Geoff Barton, the band’s music served as a vital bridge between the rhythm ‘n’ blues-based classic heavy rock of the late 1960s and early 1970s and modern heavy metal—a genre characterized by subgenre diversification and stylistic and sonic eclecticism. The band’s guitarist, Adrian Smith, described their musical style as follows: "People say Maiden is metal, and I suppose they’re right, but you can find many other influences in our music—for instance, elements drawn from folk music. In its own way, our style also contains a strong blues influence, particularly in the guitar solos and the scales used. Maiden’s music is quite unique; it’s a blend of many different things." You can even find progressive, jazz, and classical music influences.
Music journalist John Tucker noted that Iron Maiden was the first metal band in history to combine several extremes: a punk-style vocalist, a metal band, and a progressive approach to compositional structure—an approach later developed by bands such as Metallica and the entire thrash metal movement. According to Götz Kühnemund, former editor of the German magazine *Rock Hard*, Iron Maiden was—and remains—an inspiration for all the heavy metal bands we know today, as they are a quintessential heavy metal group. They are equally significant for those playing power, speed, thrash, death, or black metal, as well as hard rock—the whole spectrum. Maiden took the hard rock of the 1970s, carried it into the 1980s, and created an entirely new genre. It was Maiden that introduced the "do-it-yourself" (DIY) ethos to rock music as a whole. Furthermore, Iron Maiden popularized the use of guitar harmonies within metal; many contemporary metal bands feature two guitarists who employ dual guitar harmonies, drawing inspiration from Iron Maiden in this regard.
As noted by British manager, music PR specialist, and author of numerous biographies, Joe Shooman, Iron Maiden is frequently described—both in music media and specialized literature—as a pioneer of modern metal, the biggest British metal band, the premier heavy metal act, the greatest classic heavy metal band of all time, and the most prominent representative of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM). Jörg Pistorius, a German music journalist, argued that no single band can claim to have created or invented heavy metal. There is, however, one band that shaped it and was largely responsible for turning it into a globally recognizable style—a market segment with significant sales potential. (…) Iron Maiden played fast-paced guitar riffs crackling with energy, combined with harmonious melodies and choruses that one could sing along to instantly. No band has shaped heavy metal as profoundly as Iron Maiden. In his book *Sound of the Beast*, Ian Christe argues that Iron Maiden were instrumental in the further evolution of the genre under the banner of the "New Wave of British Heavy Metal" (NWOBHM). He posits that Iron Maiden—alongside Judas Priest—are primarily responsible for the genre's major development. While AC/DC and Black Sabbath remained rooted in a more primal, darker sound, Iron Maiden and Judas Priest transformed the use of twin-guitar harmonies, creating something entirely new.
Martin Popoff, a Canadian journalist, professional music critic, and author of numerous works on heavier forms of rock, has noted that no other band from the NWOBHM movement achieved a scale of success comparable to that of Steve Harris’s group. According to Popoff, Saxon fell behind, Motörhead remained a cult act, and Def Leppard shifted their style entirely; only Iron Maiden continued on an upward trajectory. Regarding the band’s standing on the musical landscape of 2025, he suggests that while Metallica—given their massive concert productions, innovative promotional strategies, and global reach—might be considered the greatest metal band of all time, Iron Maiden, with their enduring legacy, can be regarded as the second most significant act in the history of the genre.
Michael "Away" Langevin, a musician in the progressive metal band Voivod, argues that Iron Maiden’s debut album served as a benchmark for a new approach to heavy metal, blending elements of punk rock, classic hard rock, progressive rock, British metal, and an underground aesthetic—best exemplified by the comic-book-style artwork and the record’s raw sound. It was music for a new generation, charting a path forward for heavy metal, including thrash metal and, eventually, progressive metal. Max Cavalera and Andreas Kisser of the Brazilian band Sepultura point to Steve Harris’s group as the act that introduced them to the world of heavy metal and even inspired them to learn English. Richie Faulkner, guitarist for Judas Priest—who also worked with Lauren Harris, the daughter of the Iron Maiden leader—has acknowledged that Steve Harris had a significant influence on him regarding stage presence, the approach to live performances, and the work ethic required of a professional musician.
Joey Tempest, vocalist for the Swedish band Europe, states that Iron Maiden served as a major inspiration for him and his bandmates early in their careers. According to Tempest, "Iron Maiden had these melodies and a certain attitude that impressed us—a combination of heavy metal and art rock, along with a galloping rhythm section, which you can hear in our hit 'The Final Countdown'." Matt Bellamy, frontman of the British band Muse, has admitted that he and his bandmates always admired Steve Harris’s group: "Iron Maiden was a British band with a bit of a punk edge. 'Phantom of the Opera' isn't as pompous or overly classical as some other metal tracks." There is something furious and terrifying about it. That is why we have always admired Iron Maiden. We drew from them the use of the minor scale and a progressive approach to arrangements, even though we don’t sound like them and operate within a different genre. We hold them in high regard as musicians—especially Steve Harris, who is one of the best bassists alive today.
Rosana Miho, known for her work with the Japanese band Lovebites, described the role of Iron Maiden’s debut album—and the band itself—in shaping heavy metal music as follows: Iron Maiden’s debut is the most important metal album of the last 50 years. It is so significant because of its unprecedented sound, which fuses progressive rock, hard rock, and the energy of punk. This album is the cornerstone of a new kind of metal. The music it contains remains original and fresh; it is an iconic album in every respect. You can hear Iron Maiden’s influence in the work of countless artists who followed them, as well as in the music of entirely new bands on the scene. It is no exaggeration to say that without Iron Maiden, modern metal would be something completely different.
Rafael Bittencourt, guitarist for the Brazilian band Angra, views Iron Maiden as the group that definitively established power metal as a distinct subgenre of heavy music. World-renowned pop singer Lady Gaga has stated that the British group is one of the greatest rock bands of all time. She admires what Iron Maiden has achieved throughout their career and intends to follow a similar path herself: "Seeing the dedication of the fans—moving to the rhythm, pumping their fists, taking in the show—I see a paradigm for my own future and the kind of relationship I want to have with my own fans. Iron Maiden never had a radio hit, yet they sell out stadiums all over the world; their fans live, breathe, and would die for Maiden—that is my dream. I don’t want to be the next Madonna; I want to be the next Iron Maiden."
Miley Cyrus has also admitted that Steve Harris’s band is among her favorites, noting that their music played a significant role in shaping her musical taste. K.K. Downing (former guitarist and co-founder of the band Judas Priest) confessed: "Although their [Iron Maiden’s] music doesn’t quite align with my specific taste, I cannot deny that they have had a major influence on heavy metal and music in general. As a Brit, I am incredibly proud of what they have managed to achieve over all these years and how they carved out a unique niche for themselves. Furthermore, I have always admired them for achieving such immense commercial success through their marketing efforts alone. They have definitely surpassed us!"
Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, leaders of the American band KISS—known for their generally cool, detached attitude toward the work of other artists—have repeatedly pointed to Iron Maiden as one of the most important groups in history, asserting that there has been nothing of this magnitude in rock music for many years. Paul Stanley described the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame committee’s long-standing decision to ignore the band as "complete madness," especially given that Iron Maiden played a pivotal role in the full emergence of a new musical genre. Johnny Cash, the American country musician, singer, and actor, frequently expressed his respect for heavy metal artists, specifically Iron Maiden and Metallica. According to American guitar virtuoso Chris Impellitteri, Iron Maiden has influenced virtually every heavy metal band through their music, their brand, and their songwriting talent. Few bands possess a vocalist like Bruce Dickinson, who could easily hold his own against some of the greatest tenors in history, such as Luciano Pavarotti or Andrea Bocelli. Harris’s compositions, the twin-guitar attack of Murray and Smith, and the drumming of Burr and McBrain played a pivotal role in the creation of numerous musical masterpieces, leaving an indelible mark on heavy music from 1980 onwards. One must also acknowledge the contribution of Paul Di’Anno; even their manager, Rod Smallwood, has become a legend within the music industry.
According to Tobias Forge, frontman of the Swedish band Ghost, Iron Maiden exerted a profound influence on his group and on metal music as a whole. This influence is evident across various dimensions: musical, aesthetic, thematic, and visual, as well as in the distinctive staging of their live concerts. Forge highlights, in particular, the work ethic embodied by the musicians of the British band. He also notes that many of the group’s compositions are written in a major key—a rarity in heavy metal. Joe Parrish, guitarist for Jethro Tull, cites Iron Maiden as an enduring inspiration—the gateway through which he first discovered the world of heavy music. This fascination left a lasting imprint on his playing style and helped shape his musical tastes. Sammy Urwin of the band Employed to Serve remarked: "(...) their influence is absolutely massive; Maiden are fun. They really stand out to people, especially within the hardcore scene. While everyone there is into Sabbath and Priest, Maiden is perhaps the most 'Marmite' [polarizing] of the three. They have undoubtedly had a major impact on the entire metalcore genre." For bands like Prayer For Cleansing, Unearth, and Darkest Hour, the influence of albums such as *The Number of the Beast* is undeniable.
Mikael Åkerfeldt—frontman, vocalist, and guitarist for the Swedish progressive metal band Opeth—has stated that it is difficult to overstate the massive impact the first two Iron Maiden albums, recorded with Paul Di’Anno, had on the subsequent evolution of metal music. According to the Swedish musician, the album *Killers* is arguably the best "gateway" heavy metal record in history. Christian Jost—also known as Falk Maria Schlegel of the German band Powerwolf—confessed: "*Piece of Mind* brings together everything that heavy metal is associated with, and everything that fascinates me about the genre: a certain darkness and a healthy dose of melancholy, enriched by immense power and energy." He added, "Mr. Steve Harris and his Iron Maiden were the reason I decided to form a heavy metal band." Chris Shiflett, known for his work with the Foo Fighters, revealed that while he was growing up, Iron Maiden were "GODS" to him, and it was through them that he first became interested in heavy music. Dee Snider, frontman of the American band Twisted Sister, admitted that Iron Maiden’s signature "galloping" style—famously heard on the track "Run to the Hills"—inspired one of his own band’s biggest hits, 1984’s "I Wanna Rock." Snider highlighted the unique interplay of the rhythm section—Harris and Burr—whose synchronized performance and distinctive sound have inspired literally thousands of artists, particularly those from the thrash metal generation.
Tracii Guns, co-founder of Guns N’ Roses and leader of the band L.A. Guns... Guns considered the album *Killers* to be one of the releases that completely changed his life. The musician described the offering from Iron Maiden as a hybrid of Thin Lizzy-style hard rock, punk-rock intensity and energy, and high-octane heavy metal—a combination that represented something entirely new at the time of its release. Duff McKagan, the bassist for Guns N’ Roses, pointed to the album *The Number of the Beast*...*The Number of the Beast*—as the quintessential embodiment of the term "metal" within rock music—played a significant role in shaping the bassist’s own musical tastes. Neil Daniels points out that, beyond their large-scale integration of progressive and epic elements into metal, one of the most striking examples of Iron Maiden’s compositional influence on the genre is the instrumental miniature "The Ides of March" (composed in 1978/79), which opens the band’s second studio album, *Killers* (1981). It was the first composition of its kind in the genre’s history—built upon a percussive, marching staccato and dramatic, dynamic guitar interplay—and it became a blueprint for the heavy metal album intros (or preludes to individual tracks) used by countless other artists. Daniels further argues that the influence of Iron Maiden on subsequent generations of rock and metal bands is immeasurable. Even looking at just a small sample, Maiden’s impact is evident in groups such as Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, Anthrax, and Annihilator, as well as in younger acts like Slipknot, Korn, Fozzy, Avenged Sevenfold, In Flames, and Trivium. This list alone serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the band.
Brian Slagel, owner of the record label Metal Blade Records, remarked: "Iron Maiden’s *The Number of the Beast* remains the perfect template for a metal album to this day. Everything is flawless—the sound, the songs, the lyrics. It is the ultimate heavy metal album because it is complete." Forty years later, the influence of *The Number of the Beast* can be heard across a wide spectrum of contemporary heavy music; in fact, it is far easier to list prominent metal musicians who *don’t* cite this record as an inspiration than those who do. For me, this coincided with a period when I was becoming deeply immersed in the entire metal scene. I started my own record label—a turning point that defined what I would do for the rest of my life! Iron Maiden motivated me to do everything in my power to ensure others could hear this incredible music. It was a life-changing experience.
According to Stjepan Juras, the album *Powerslave* (1984) definitively cemented the band’s status as the greatest heavy metal group of all time. While other artists in rock history may have sold more records or played to larger venues, Iron Maiden achieved something far more valuable. Through numerous references to classical literature, cinema, and culture at large, the band’s work served an educational purpose for millions of listeners—broadening their social and emotional intelligence, shaping their imaginations, and inspiring further exploration and personal growth, particularly at times when traditional formal schooling fell short. As a heavy metal band, they were absolute pioneers in this regard; not only did they inspire legions of followers, but they also helped reshape the global perspective on the value and role of metal music.
Bob McParland, a professor of English and the humanities at Felician College in New Jersey, has undertaken a comprehensive analysis of "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner." Summarizing the insights shared on the literary scholar’s personal blog, it is worth noting that this epic interpretation of Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s work—which closes the album *Powerslave*—stands as an absolute *tour de force* by the British band, effectively transforming the genre. The musicians elevated classic heavy metal—a style often characterized by a rather conservative, "mechanical" formula—to an entirely new level, one that allows this form of expression to be recognized as a full-fledged art form. Their skill in constructing a narrative, reinterpreting a classic piece of English Romantic literature, cultivating atmosphere, and aligning the musical layer with the lyrics is truly remarkable. In terms of arrangement, composition, the ability to harness chaos, and the masterful use of dramaturgy, one can draw parallels here to Ludwig van Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3 ("Eroica"). Opera composer Lee Bradshaw cites the work of Iron Maiden as one of his inspirations, highlighting the multidimensional nature of the band’s output and its clear affinities with progressive and classical music.
Martin M. Jacobsen, an associate professor of English and author of the book *Pieces of Minds: The Intellectual Tradition of Iron Maiden*, argues that "Iron Maiden’s particular innovation manifested itself not only in their musical adaptations but also in the overt display of their intellectual interests. Iron Maiden... pays homage to a robust, predominantly Western, intellectual tradition, drawing freely upon numerous themes from literature, history, cinema, and philosophy—much in the same way that they highlighted the musical influences of the bands that preceded them." The group’s penchant for drawing inspiration from classic British literature and incorporating it into their heavy music is as did the editorial team at the influential British newspaper *The Guardian*.
Gary Holt, one of the most talented metal guitarists, confessed that encountering the work of Iron Maiden was a game-changer in his musical education, while Steve Harris has been—and remains—an absolute benchmark for generations of metal bassists. The signature techniques employed by the English bassist proved that, within the heavy metal genre, the bass guitar could play a role just as significant as that of the lead guitar; this established Harris as one of the first true icons in the history of the genre. Together with drummer Nicko McBrain, he forged a rhythm section with a distinctive sound—one rooted in precise collaboration—which has inspired countless imitators to further refine their own musical craft. The bassist’s unique playing style, when set against the contributions of the other musicians, was often described as "Harris’s right-hand attack versus the rest of the world." The 35th anniversary of the release of the iconic album *Seventh Son of a Seventh Son* served as the catalyst for the project "The Legacy – A Tribute To Iron Maiden," created by musicians from the bands CETI and Wolf Spider. The album exerted a profound influence on the evolution of heavy metal—particularly its more atmospheric or mood-driven iterations, as explored by subsequent generations of artists.
According to British music journalist Garry Bushell, few bands in the history of heavy metal can claim to have had as significant and lasting an impact on the genre’s development as Iron Maiden. Few can claim to have spearheaded a new musical movement or subgenre. Among the acts that emerged during the "new wave" of heavy music at the turn of the 1970s and 1980s, Iron Maiden were the first to propel uncompromising heavy metal into a global phenomenon, exerting a profound influence on numerous other artists—including Metallica. Radio journalist and music critic Scott Penfold has noted that Iron Maiden’s impact on the genre is incalculable; not only did they inspire subsequent generations of metal bands, but they also revolutionized live performance through their elaborate stage productions, further cementing their status as pioneers of heavy metal. Steve Harris is considered one of the most influential musicians and composers in the history of heavy rock. He is responsible for the lion's share of Iron Maiden’s repertoire and established the archetypal compositional template for modern metal. In addition to writing riffs, vocal melodies, and lyrics for the majority of the band's songs, he has also been involved in production and audiovisual editing. The riffs he created rank among the most memorable in history, as evidenced by tracks such as "The Trooper," "The Number of the Beast," "Phantom of the Opera," "Run to the Hills," and "Hallowed Be Thy Name." The founder of Iron Maiden has frequently been hailed as the greatest and most influential metal bassist of all time. He is also the originator of the band's highly expressive, "galloping" bass lines. His compositional style was built upon triplets—consisting of sixteenth and eighth notes—which created intense rhythmic foundations for a dual (and later, triple) guitar attack. Steve Harris is one of the few bassists capable of playing with such extreme speed and density—using only his fingers. This ability became a unique phenomenon within the entire heavy metal scene. According to the editors of *Ultimate Classic Rock*, achieving such high speed and dynamic range without the use of a standard guitar pick was technically incredibly impressive.
The Iron Maiden leader has inspired a multitude of future musicians, including prominent bassists such as Cliff Burton, Jason Newsted, Frankie Bello, and Robert Trujillo. Former Whitesnake bassist Michael Devin highlights the uniqueness of Harris’s playing style; he notes that the British musician’s right-hand technique remained a mystery to him, and that the way Harris achieved his signature sound is inimitable and one-of-a-kind. Devin observed that, in many respects, Harris’s approach resembles techniques taught in jazz, making his style truly unique within the genre. American bassist David Ellefson—best known for his work with Megadeth—argues that Steve Harris proved a bassist could take a leading role in the live performance of heavy metal music. Ellefson explained his perspective as follows: "Steve Harris changed the perception of the bass, because previously, the bassist was just the background of a metal band. The bass was usually in the background, serving a supporting role." Steve moved him to the very front of the stage. He was a frontman, right alongside the lead singer. To me, Iron Maiden always had two frontmen: Steve and either Paul Di’Anno or Bruce Dickinson—and, I suppose, Blaze Bayley for a while, too. In my view, Steve accounts for 50 percent of that band. In doing so, he paved the way for other bassists. He influenced every bass player in the thrash scene—people like Dan Lilker, Frank Bello, Cliff Burton and I—we were let off the leash. We realized it was perfectly fine to step out to the forefront, both in terms of sound and visuals. The commercial success of the British band served as a major creative catalyst for literally thousands of artists across the globe. It is fair to say that the group’s influence on the development of the genre—bringing its controversial, metal-oriented image and, above all, its uncompromising music into the mainstream consciousness—can hardly be overstated. Since 1980, the work and visual aesthetic of Iron Maiden have served as a vital, enduring source of inspiration, acting as a gateway into the world of heavy metal for millions of listeners and countless musicians who went on to form their own bands. Given their contributions to shaping the genre, the band is often referred to as the "Godfathers of British Heavy Metal" or the "Rolling Stones of Metal"—distinct from Black Sabbath, who are widely recognized as the "Godfathers of Metal."
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