The Making of The Number of the Beast by Iron Maiden

Introduction

Iron Maiden’s third studio album, The Number of the Beast, stands as a monumental release in the history of heavy metal. Released in 1982, it marked a pivotal moment not only for the band but for the genre itself, setting a new standard for metal music with its powerful sound, complex themes, and iconic imagery. This album was the first to feature Bruce Dickinson on vocals, whose operatic style and charismatic presence helped propel the band to new heights. With its blend of mythological and existential themes, it became a defining record of the era.

This article will delve into the genesis of The Number of the Beast, its recording process, commercial performance, critical reception, and its enduring legacy. Through detailed analysis and verified insights, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of this landmark album.

Upon its release, The Number of the Beast was met with critical acclaim and commercial success, becoming Iron Maiden’s first album to top the UK Albums Chart. Its influence on the heavy metal genre is profound, inspiring countless bands and musicians across generations. As Steve Harris, the band’s bassist and primary songwriter, once remarked, “This album opened the door for us, it was a turning point.” The record’s enduring significance is evident in its continued relevance and the passionate fanbase it has cultivated over the decades.

The Genesis of “The Number of the Beast”

The creation of The Number of the Beast was a product of both necessity and opportunity. Following the departure of original vocalist Paul Di’Anno due to personal issues, Iron Maiden sought a fresh start with Bruce Dickinson, whose arrival marked a new chapter for the band. The early 1980s were a time of transformation in the music industry, with the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) gaining momentum and reshaping the rock landscape. Iron Maiden was at the forefront of this movement, poised to make a significant impact.

Prior to The Number of the Beast, Iron Maiden had released two albums: their self-titled debut in 1980 and Killers in 1981. These records established their sound and reputation, but it was their third album that would define their legacy. With Martin Birch at the helm as producer, known for his work with bands like Deep Purple and Black Sabbath, the stage was set for something extraordinary. The band’s lineup for the album included Steve Harris on bass, Dave Murray and Adrian Smith on guitars, Clive Burr on drums, and Bruce Dickinson on vocals.

The album’s title and concept were inspired by Steve Harris’s fascination with the occult and horror themes, as well as a nightmare he experienced after watching Damien: Omen II. The cover art, created by Derek Riggs, depicted the band’s mascot Eddie manipulating the devil, a provocative image that fueled controversy and intrigue. The artwork was initially intended for the single “Purgatory” but was deemed too impactful for anything less than a full album release.

The album’s recording was financed by EMI, with a budget that reflected the high expectations for the project. Despite the financial backing, the band faced challenges, including time constraints and the pressure to deliver a groundbreaking album. Nevertheless, The Number of the Beast emerged as a triumph, capturing the essence of Iron Maiden’s vision and solidifying their place in music history.

Recording Process

The recording sessions for The Number of the Beast were held at Battery Studios in London, a facility renowned for its state-of-the-art equipment and experienced staff. The sessions began in January 1982 and were completed in just five weeks, a testament to the band’s dedication and the efficiency of producer Martin Birch. Known for his meticulous attention to detail, Birch had previously worked with iconic bands such as Deep Purple and Fleetwood Mac, bringing a wealth of experience to the project.

Battery Studios, originally known as Morgan Studios, was equipped with cutting-edge technology for the time, including a 32-track Mitsubishi recorder and Fairlight CMI sampling synthesizers. These tools allowed Iron Maiden to experiment with their sound and capture the dynamic energy that defined the album. The studio’s intimate setting also fostered a collaborative atmosphere, enabling the band to refine their compositions and performances under Birch’s guidance.

Despite the well-equipped studio, the recording process was not without its challenges. Anecdotes from the sessions include tales of unexplained technical issues and even a car accident involving Martin Birch, which led to a repair bill of £666, adding an eerie twist to the album’s production story. Nevertheless, these hurdles only seemed to fuel the band’s determination, resulting in a record that would become a cornerstone of heavy metal.

Martin Birch’s role as producer was pivotal, bringing his expertise in capturing the band’s raw energy and translating it into a polished yet powerful sound. His previous work with bands like Deep Purple and Black Sabbath had honed his ability to create records that resonated with both critics and fans alike.

Commercial Performance and Reception

Upon its release, The Number of the Beast achieved remarkable commercial success, reaching the top of the UK Albums Chart and solidifying Iron Maiden’s status as a leading force in heavy metal. The album also made a significant impact in the United States, peaking at number 33 on the Billboard 200, and it was certified platinum by the RIAA in 1986. Its success was not limited to English-speaking countries, as it also charted highly in various international markets.

In addition to its chart performance, the album received numerous accolades and certifications. It was awarded platinum status in the UK and multiple gold and platinum certifications worldwide, reflecting its widespread appeal and enduring popularity. The singles “Run to the Hills” and “The Number of the Beast” further boosted the album’s profile, with “Run to the Hills” reaching the top ten in the UK Singles Chart.

The competitive landscape of 1982 saw the release of several other notable heavy metal albums, but few matched the impact of The Number of the Beast. Its blend of powerful lyrics, complex arrangements, and striking imagery set it apart from its contemporaries, earning it a place in the history of metal music.

• Blackout by Scorpions [Physical Sales: 2 million]
• Screaming for Vengeance by Judas Priest [Physical Sales: 2 million]
• Coda by Led Zeppelin [Physical Sales: 1 million]
• Creatures of the Night by Kiss [Physical Sales: 1 million]

In terms of awards and recognitions, The Number of the Beast has been lauded by critics and fans alike, frequently appearing on lists of the greatest heavy metal albums of all time. Its influence on the genre is immeasurable, with many contemporary artists citing it as a major inspiration.

Singles and Track Analysis

The singles released from The Number of the Beast played a crucial role in its commercial success and cultural impact. “Run to the Hills” was the first single, released on 8 February 1982, and it quickly became a fan favourite, showcasing the band’s signature sound and Bruce Dickinson’s powerful vocals. The title track, released as a single on 26 April 1982, further cemented the album’s status as a heavy metal classic.

Each track on the album contributes to its overarching themes of power, conflict, and existential exploration. The songwriting credits reflect the collaborative nature of the band, with contributions from various members, although Bruce Dickinson’s involvement was significant despite contractual limitations preventing official credit.

Note: Songs marked with * were released as singles. “Run to the Hills” reached number 7 on the UK Singles Chart, while “The Number of the Beast” peaked at number 18.

Influences and Legacy

The Number of the Beast was heavily influenced by the burgeoning heavy metal scene of the late 1970s and early 1980s, drawing inspiration from bands like Black Sabbath and Deep Purple. The album’s themes of darkness, power, and mythology resonated with audiences and set a new standard for the genre.

In turn, the album has influenced countless artists and bands across a variety of genres. Its impact can be seen in the works of thrash metal pioneers like Metallica and Slayer, as well as more contemporary acts in the metalcore and progressive metal scenes.

Released in 1982, The Number of the Beast arrived during a year marked by significant cultural and global events. The Falklands War began in April, the first compact discs were released in Germany in August, and the year saw the release of iconic films such as E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial and Tootsie. These events, alongside the album’s release, contributed to a transformative period in music and popular culture.

Five Things about The Number of the Beast

Despite its age, The Number of the Beast continues to intrigue fans and music historians alike. Here are five fascinating facts about the album:

Media and Television Usage

Over the years, songs from The Number of the Beast have been featured in various media, underscoring their enduring appeal and cultural impact.

Critical Reviews and Retrospectives

The Number of the Beast has been the subject of extensive critical analysis and retrospectives, with many praising its innovation and influence on the heavy metal genre. Publications have lauded its thematic depth, musical complexity, and the dynamic vocal performance of Bruce Dickinson.

After The Number of the Beast

Following the success of The Number of the Beast, Iron Maiden continued to build on their momentum with a series of critically acclaimed albums throughout the 1980s. Their subsequent release, Piece of Mind, further solidified their status as one of the leading bands in heavy metal. The addition of drummer Nicko McBrain brought a new dynamic to the group, enhancing their sound and live performances.

The band’s popularity soared during this period, with extensive tours and high-profile festival appearances helping to expand their fanbase globally. Despite changes in the music industry and the emergence of new genres, Iron Maiden maintained their distinctive sound and artistic integrity, earning them a loyal following.

As of October 2023, Iron Maiden remains active, with their most recent album, Senjutsu, released in 2021. The band continues to tour and perform, showcasing their enduring appeal and influence in the music world.

Remasters and Reissues

The legacy of The Number of the Beast has been preserved through various remasters and reissues, ensuring that new generations of fans can experience its iconic sound. These releases have included enhanced audio quality and additional content, further cementing the album’s status as a classic.

Conclusion

The Number of the Beast remains a seminal work in the history of heavy metal, its influence and appeal undiminished by the passage of time. Its themes, sound, and imagery continue to resonate with fans old and new, a testament to Iron Maiden’s enduring artistry and impact. As Bruce Dickinson reflects, “It’s an album that changed the game for us, and for heavy metal as a whole.”

For further exploration of this iconic album, readers can visit the Wikipedia page for The Number of the Beast, the official Iron Maiden website, and the EMI Records website.

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