Iron Maiden’s groundbreaking 1982 album The Number of the Beast stands as a monumental achievement in the history of heavy metal music. This seminal album is frequently celebrated as one of the most influential and defining records in the genre, showcasing the band’s unique sound and lyrical depth. Its impact on the metal scene is unparalleled, with many fans and critics alike recognizing it as a pivotal moment in rock history.
In a recent engaging interview with Sirius XM’s Eddie Trunk, the legendary guitarist Adrian Smith reflected on the creation of The Number of the Beast and whether he anticipated its rise to iconic status during its production. Smith’s candid response revealed his thoughtful nature regarding the band’s work. “I’m never that blasé,” he stated, yet he recounted a particular moment filled with excitement that hinted at the album’s potential. He specifically highlighted the track ‘Run to the Hills,’ expressing, “When we heard that back, we thought ‘This is the single: ‘Run to the Hills.’’ It had all the elements of a genuine hit single, including captivating three-part harmonies on the chorus, with Bruce’s powerful vocals harmonizing perfectly. The catchy chorus resonated deeply with us, making it clear that we were onto something extraordinary.”
DISCOVER MORE: Explore How Bruce Dickinson’s Vision Shaped Iron Maiden’s ‘Number of the Beast’
Smith also fondly shared his earliest experiences of hearing the iconic title track from The Number of the Beast. “When I joined the band, I stayed with Steve Harris, immersing myself in learning the setlist. Most days were spent in deep collaboration, going through the songs together,” he recounted. “One day, Steve turned to me and said, ‘Oh, check this out. I’ve got this one.’ He didn’t have a polished demo at that moment, but he had a brilliant concept for ‘Number of the Beast.’ He played the intro and scatted the vocal lines, presenting it to me in a raw, unrefined state. I distinctly remember that moment, and it’s incredible to think that this song evolved into one of Iron Maiden’s most iconic tracks over time.”
Excitingly, Iron Maiden is gearing up to kick off their highly anticipated Run for Your Lives world tour next month, with an extensive schedule across Europe that will continue until August. In the meantime, Smith has also released Black Light/White Noise, his latest collaborative album with Richie Kotzen, showcasing his versatility and musical evolution.
Comprehensive Ranking of Iron Maiden Albums
When undertaking the challenging task of ranking Iron Maiden albums, one of the most remarkable observations is their ability to thrive even after undergoing lead singer changes on three different occasions. This resilience speaks volumes about the band’s adaptability and the strength of their core musical identity.
Gallery Credit: Eduardo Rivadavia
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