The Killers

Iron Maiden's Early Live Performance of 'Killers' at the Rainbow Theatre

Rainbow Theatre
London, UK, United Kingdom

• The live recording by Iron Maiden from December 21, 1980, showcases an early version of the song "Killers," a track that would later appear on their s... Read Full Description >

  The live recording by Iron Maiden from December 21, 1980, showcases an early version of the song "Killers," a track that would later appear on their second studio album, "Killers," released in 1981. At this point in Iron Maiden's career, they were still solidifying their identity in the burgeoning heavy metal scene, having just released their self-titled debut album. The performance at the Rainbow Theatre highlights Paul Di'Anno's raw vocal style and captures the band's energy as they experimented with their sound. Notably, Di'Anno admitted to writing the lyrics just minutes before taking the stage, which speaks to the spontaneity and urgency of their early performances. This concert is a significant moment in Iron Maiden’s history, showcasing their evolution and the visceral connection they had with their audience as they moved toward greater recognition in the heavy metal genre.