Iron Maiden Guitarist Adrian Smith Cancels Gig

Iron Maiden guitarist Adrian Smith has been forced to cancel his planned gig after secrets became too widely advertised. Smith has been recording new material with the Sikth rockers for the last couple of years, and were expecting to play a live debut on 15 January 2011. But plans are now shelved. Reasons cited are that it would have been "unviable".

Further on their website is the statement: "..., due to the show being inadvertently advertised, it has since become unviable to proceed with this idea. Full refunds are available from point of purchase for anyone who bought tickets. Adrian would like to make it clear he has no touring plans at the moment other than those with Iron Maiden, who embark on an extensive world tour in early 2011."

Iron Maiden are an English heavy metal band who have been around since 1975. Collectively they have released thirty-one albums and have sold over 85 million albums worldwide. Their latest album "The Final Frontier" - released in August 2010 - has peaked at number one in 30 different countries so far.

Smith joined Iron Maiden in 1981, even though he and Dave Murray (who originally formed the band in 1975) previously worked together in other gigs. Throughout their history, Smith has been a guitar player and songwriter. He has also been back-up vocals for Iron Maiden, and lead vocals for a number of other bands along the way. His voice is reminiscent of Joe Cocker.

Iron Maiden have had numerous changes to their band members - Smith has come and gone. However in 1999 he rejoined the band again, and has stayed with them to date.