Iron Maiden is one of the most successful and well-known heavy metal bands in the world. Formed in 1975, the band have continually released some of the best albums the metal genre has to offer, up until as recently as 2021. 

But they’re not stopping any time soon, with a world tour coming in 2025! Iron Maiden will be coming to the UK on their Run For Your Lives tour in June 2025, so what better way to get hyped for the show than to take a trip through Iron Maiden’s best songs?

We’ve compiled Iron Maiden’s top 10 songs from 1980’s Iron Maiden all the way to Senjutsu, so you can remind yourself of their legendary discography. What’s more, we’ll tell you how to get official VIP tickets to their London Stadium show!

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Iron Maiden’s Best Songs in Order

No. 10: “The Number of the Beast”

The second single from the 1982 album of the same name, "The Number of the Beast” is best known for the iconic scream performed by vocalist Bruce Dickinson at the end of the intro, starting the song immediately with a high-pitched, guttural wail. 

Like many of Iron Maiden’s songs, it had controversy for the religious subject matter, prompting religious groups in the US to accuse the band of being Satanic. That only garnered Iron Maiden more attention however, as the song has since been featured in countless video games and TV shows and has been covered by many other metal bands.

No. 9: “Wasted Years”

The chorus hook in “Wasted Years” is catchy and even a little pop-leaning compared to most of Iron Maiden’s discography, but that’s what makes it such a unique song. The song was the first written by guitarist Adrian Smith, touching on themes of homesickness after the band’s year-long previous tour.

Iron Maiden are known for their interesting album covers, often depicting the band’s mascot, Eddie. “Wasted Years” is no different, even featuring the TARDIS from Doctor Who on the single art. The song appears as the last on the band’s setlist for their tour, and you won’t want to miss this iconic track.

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No. 8: “Phantom Of The Opera”

Often regarded as the best song from the band’s debut album, Iron Maiden, “Phantom Of The Opera” is a song inspired by the novel of the same name. That’s not why the song is so popular though, as it comes in at 7 minutes long with an extended instrumental break featuring lots of guitar harmonies which is the signature Iron Maiden sound.

The song was written by bass player Steve Harris, who regards the song as one of the best he’s ever written, and one of the most enjoyable to play.

No. 7:”Fear of the Dark”

Another track written by bassist Steve Harris, inspiration for the song apparently came from Steve’s own fear of the dark. The lyrics convey a sense of vulnerability, as they describe the feeling of being watched or pursued in the dark. The song also touches on the theme of the unknown, amplifying emotions like isolation, uncertainty, and panic.

Fitting for the lyrical content of the song, it is haunting and atmospheric, and remains a classic in their repertoire holding an emotional connection with fans.

No. 6: “Rime of the Ancient Mariner”

The song is a loose interpretation of Samuel Taylor Coleridge's poem “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner,” which tells the tale of a sailor who, after killing an albatross, is cursed and forced to endure a long and harrowing journey. The song follows the structure and themes of the poem, including the mariner's curse, his isolation, and the eventual redemption that comes through the recognition of his sin.

Iron Maiden’s rendition of “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner” is also an example of their love for literature and their ability to take deep, philosophical themes and translate them into heavy metal. It’s no wonder the song has become an absolute fan favourite.

No. 5: “Powerslave”

Another conceptual song, “Powerslave” draws inspiration from various elements of ancient history, particularly Egyptian mythology. The lyrics depict a figure who is entangled in the cycle of life, death, and rebirth, symbolized by an Egyptian pharaoh or god. 

"Powerslave" features epic arrangements, with an opening instrumental section that immediately grabs the listener's attention. The song shifts between fast, thrashing riffs and more melodic and atmospheric sections, showcasing Iron Maiden's trademark style of mixing energy and precision.

No. 4: “Aces High”

Another single from Powerslave, “Aces High” is written from the perspective of a British RAF pilot fighting in the Battle of Britain. The band are experts at writing songs that tell a story, and this one is no different, becoming one of their most iconic tracks overall. 

“Aces High” is frequently used as the opening song at Iron Maiden concerts, so you can expect to hear this one on their Run For Your Lives tour in 2025. The song starts with a powerful, rapid-fire guitar riff that immediately sets a fast, driving pace, and it’ll set the tone for a concert experience you’ll never forget.

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No. 3: “Run to the Hills”

“Run to the Hills,” from the album The Number of the Beast, has become one of Iron Maiden’s signature songs. This song sets the scene of conflict between Native Americans and European settlers, particularly focusing on the suffering of Native Americans during the early days of colonisation.

“Run to the Hills” perfectly captures the sound of early Iron Maiden, with a powerful bassline from Steve Harris, intense drums from Nicko McBrain, and harmonised riffs from Dave Murray and Adrian Smith. Bruce Dickinson’s vocals soar above it all, creating an absolute classic of their discography.

No. 2: “The Trooper”

“The Trooper” remains an essential heavy metal track, and ever since its release in 1983 it has been one of their most popular songs. Following the theme of Iron Maiden songs being inspired by wars from history, “The Trooper” is about the Charge of the Light Brigade at the Battle of Balaclava 1854, which took place during the Crimean War.

 A testament to how iconic the guitars in the song are, “The Trooper” has been featured in Guitar Hero and Rock Band games, as well as being included on multiple tribute albums and covered by other metal bands. During live concerts, vocalist Bruce Dickinson waves a union jack flag and wears a red coat uniform when performing the song.

No. 1: “Hallowed Be thy Name”

Ask any fan and they’ll all agree, “Hallowed Be Thy Name” is the best Iron Maiden song. It’s the closing track on The Number of the Beast, and is a constant on all the band’s setlists since its release. It’s also one of the most covered songs of their discography, showing just how iconic it is. 

It’s equal parts theatrical, energising, and mournful, showing off all the different facets of Iron Maiden as a band. It’s a seven minute song but not a moment of that is wasted, with drama and operatics that have made it one of the top heavy metal songs ever.

Get Iron Maiden Tickets

If you’re eager to witness the epics of Iron Maiden’s track list, you’re in luck because VIP tickets to their London Stadium show in June 2025 are available now at Seat Unique! Treat yourself to Iron Maiden hospitality tickets today and unlock a whole host of perks such as:  

  • Best seats in the house: Enjoy unparalleled views of Iron Maiden's powerhouse performance with prime seating, ensuring you don't miss a moment of the action with Iron Maiden VIP.
  • Early entry: Get ahead of the crowd and enter the venue before general admission, giving you a head start on soaking in the atmosphere with Iron Maiden hospitality.
  • Private lounge access: Iron Maiden hospitality tickets allow you to elevate your evening with access to a VIP lounge, where you can relax in style before and after the show.
  • Complimentary food and drink: Enjoy a range of delicious food and drinks in a comfortable setting, adding to the premium feel of your VIP at Iron Maiden experience.

Please note that inclusions will depend on which of the Iron Maiden VIP packages are booked.

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