Is there a heavy metal fan alive who doesn't like Iron Maiden? There aren't many bands that are as universally loved. Though Maiden have a very lengthy discography, I personally like the Paul Di'anno period best. No doubt he was a bad seed (to put it mildly) as he readily admits in his book 'The Beast', but he really was a better singer than he gets credit for. Of course Bruce is far more professional and reliable but I choose Killers as my no.1 Maiden album. What's remarkable about Maiden is that they pretty much stormed to success right out of the gate; apparently their debut album racked up sales of 350,000 in 1980 alone. Without the benefit of MTV, the internet, or actual radio play (I don't think the Heavy Metal Soundhouse DJ sets really counted for all that much), 350,000 'punters' bought their first album the year it was released. They never put a foot wrong pretty much their first 15 years.
Fender USA Dave Murray Stratocaster
Fender Steve Harris Precision Bass
Throughout the years from when Steve Harris first dreamed of being Pete Way, to becoming the leader of the most beloved heavy metal band of all time, he has remained steadfastly loyal to the Fender Precision Bass. This is the very first version of Steve Harris signature PBs, Crafted in Japan, produced between 1998-2001 only, based on his modified/repainted Precision bass. In '98 Maiden was in a slump; nobody was giving a shit about them while pogo-ing in baggy jeans to Korn and Kid Rock or whatever, so leave it to the Japanese to hold up the irons and even put out a signature model. Since then this version has become prized indeed. Compared with the current made in Mexico ones, notice immediately the presence of Eddie/Iron Maiden logo on the headstock, the unique shade of blue (not the standard Fender Lake Placid Blue) vs current glittery blue, and a claret pickguard instead of a mirror one. The significance of this, is that the blue/claret combination, same as on his wristbands, represents the colours of Steve's beloved West Ham United FC.
He did in fact use the signature model (i.e. the factory made one with Eddie decal) live onstage as well, as evidenced by the Japanese live gear pictorial from 2001.
He did in fact use the signature model (i.e. the factory made one with Eddie decal) live onstage as well, as evidenced by the Japanese live gear pictorial from 2001.
