Former IRON MAIDEN vocalist Paul Di’Anno has pulled the plug on his proposed U.S. tour that was set to take place at the end of the year. Here’s a statement from Di’Annno:
“Due to a snake (supposed USA booking agent) ripping everyone off in every way possible known to man (and a few ways not heard of yet) the USA tour will not be going ahead. After waiting and waiting and waiting and lies and lies and more lies (and then just a few more lies and bullshit) just like happened to many others before me – I have had to admit defeat to this lowlife and forget about the USA tour for now. As you can imagine, money changed hands over there in the USA (not my hands I might add) and keeping me suppressed was the best thing to do whilst it was all stashed away. My apologies to the American fans who have been let down and to the various promoters who got so badly burnt in this way. This slime bag snake knows who he is (and so does half of the metal and rock business) so lets hope his fall is a steep one…”
Di’Anno completed his first North American tour in early 2010, 17 years after he was deported following a prison term for guns and drug offenses.
On August 27, 2011, Di’Anno played his first show since serving time in a U.K. prison after he falsely collected U.K. government benefits by claiming he suffered nerve damage to his back that prevented him from working.
Due to a number of health issues, including a knee problem which will require surgery soon, Di’Anno announced in July 2012 that he would stop touring in 2013.