The 10 best Iron Maiden songs of all time

Iron Maiden is a British heavy metal band known for their powerful sound, complex guitar work, and iconic mascot “Eddie.” Formed in 1975, Iron Maiden is a leading figure in the metal genre, influencing countless bands and gaining a loyal following around the world. Their music is often characterized by epic themes, complex arrangements, and operatic vocals courtesy of lead singer Bruce Dickinson. Their most famous songs include “The Number of the Beast,” “Run to the Hills,” and “Fear of the Dark.” Iron Maiden’s longevity and consistency in their energetic live performances have cemented their status as one of the most enduring and influential metal bands of all time.

1. Aces high

“Aces High” is a classic song by Iron Maiden, released as a single in 1984 and also featured on their album “Powerslave”. The song is characterized by its energetic tempo, driven by galloping guitar riffs and Bruce Dickinson’s powerful vocals. Lyrically, “Aces High” covers themes such as aerial combat and the bravery of fighter pilots in war, with a particular focus on World War II. The song’s soaring melodies and intense instrumentation reflect Iron Maiden’s signature style of blending historical narratives with heavy metal prowess, making it a fan favorite and a staple of their live performances.

2. Hoarfrost of the Old Sailor

“The Rime of the Ancient Mariner” is a song by Iron Maiden, released on their 1984 album Powerslave. It is based on the poem of the same name by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, first published in 1798. Iron Maiden’s adaptation of the poem tells the haunting story of a sailor who, after shooting down an albatross, faces supernatural consequences and learns about the interconnectedness of life and nature. The song is notable for its epic length, complex musical arrangements, and Bruce Dickinson’s powerful vocals. Considered one of Iron Maiden’s most ambitious and iconic tracks, “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner” showcases their ability to combine heavy metal with literary themes and storytelling.

3. Phantom of the Opera

“Phantom of the Opera” is a dynamic and theatrical song by Iron Maiden, featured on their 1980 debut album of the same name. It tells the story of the iconic character from Gaston Leroux’s novel, blending heavy metal with operatic elements. Bruce Dickinson’s soaring vocals and Steve Harris’ complex bass lines underline the intensity and drama of the song, reflecting Iron Maiden’s penchant for storytelling through music. “Phantom of the Opera” is celebrated for its complex musical structure, including guitar harmonies and powerful solos, making it a standout track in the band’s early discography and a favorite among fans of progressive and classic metal.

4. 2 minutes until midnight

“2 Minutes to Midnight” is a popular song by Iron Maiden, released as a single from their 1984 album Powerslave. The song’s title refers to the Doomsday Clock, a symbolic clock that represents how close humanity is to global catastrophe. “2 Minutes to Midnight” features Bruce Dickinson’s commanding vocals, driving rhythms, and galloping guitar riffs characteristic of Iron Maiden’s style. Lyrically, the song addresses political tensions, nuclear threats, and fear of impending war, reflecting the anxieties of the Cold War era. The track became a commercial success and remains a fan favorite, known for its powerful message and memorable musical hooks.

5. Wasted years

“Wasted Years” is a song by Iron Maiden, released on their 1986 album Somewhere in Time. The track features introspective lyrics about reflecting on past mistakes and missed opportunities, set against a backdrop of melodic guitar riffs and Bruce Dickinson’s soulful vocals. Notable for its catchy chorus and uplifting melody, “Wasted Years” showcases Iron Maiden’s ability to combine heavy metal with accessible hooks and introspective themes. The song became a hit for the band, gaining acclaim from fans and critics alike for its catchy lyrics and powerful musical composition.

6. Seventh son of a seventh son

“Seventh Son of a Seventh Son” is the title track of Iron Maiden’s seventh studio album, released in 1988. The song is notable for its epic and progressive structure, combining elements of heavy metal with symphonic and progressive rock influences. The lyrics deal with themes of prophecy, mysticism and the supernatural, and are inspired by folklore surrounding the seventh son of a seventh son, who is said to have special powers. Bruce Dickinson’s vocals are accompanied by intricate guitar solos, dynamic tempo changes and symphonic arrangements that showcase Iron Maiden’s musical complexity and storytelling skills. The song remains a highlight of their discography, and is praised for its sophisticated composition and thematic depth.

7. Power Slave

“Powerslave” is the title track of Iron Maiden’s fifth studio album, released in 1984. The song is an energetic, epic piece that reflects the album’s theme of ancient civilizations and power struggles. Bruce Dickinson’s vocals soar above the complex guitar work of Adrian Smith and Dave Murray and the rhythmic backbone provided by Steve Harris on bass and Nicko McBrain on drums. “Powerslave” features dynamic tempo and mood changes and showcases Iron Maiden’s typical blend of heavy metal with progressive elements. The song’s lyrics deal with themes of dominance, control and the pursuit of power, making it a standout track in the band’s extensive discography.

8. The Soldier

“The Trooper” is a classic heavy metal song by Iron Maiden, released as a single from their 1983 album Piece of Mind. Inspired by the Charge of the Light Brigade during the Crimean War, the song is known for its galloping rhythm, powerful guitar riffs, and Bruce Dickinson’s intense vocals. The lyrics vividly describe the bravery and chaos of battle, capturing the spirit of military heroism and sacrifice. “The Trooper” has become one of Iron Maiden’s most iconic and popular songs, celebrated for its energetic tempo, catchy melody, and the band’s signature blend of historical themes and hard-hitting metal instrumentation.

9. Hallowed be thy name

“Hallowed Be Thy Name” is a powerful and iconic song by Iron Maiden, featured on their 1982 album The Number of the Beast. The track is known for its intense and atmospheric storytelling style, recounting the thoughts and feelings of a death row inmate awaiting execution. Bruce Dickinson’s vocals convey a sense of despair and resignation, while the band’s complex guitar work and dynamic tempo changes create a dramatic and haunting atmosphere. “Hallowed Be Thy Name” is praised for its lyrical depth, musical complexity, and thematic exploration of mortality and spirituality, cementing its status as one of Iron Maiden’s most popular and enduring songs.

10. Fear of the dark

“Fear of the Dark” is a notable song by Iron Maiden, released in 1992 as the title track of their ninth studio album. The song is notable for its haunting melodies, atmospheric intro, and Bruce Dickinson’s soulful vocals. Lyrically, “Fear of the Dark” deals with the theme of fear itself, particularly the fear of the unknown and the darkness. The song has become a fan favorite and a staple of Iron Maiden’s live performances, where it often serves as the closing song of their concerts. Its anthemic chorus and powerful guitar solos make “Fear of the Dark” a standout song in the band’s repertoire, showcasing their ability to combine melodic hooks with heavy metal intensity.

Edward Tomlin is a regular contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us on social media below.