Pre Iron Maiden

The Maiden story began in 1971, Steve Harris was 15 and he had just bought his first guitar, a Telecaster bass, costing a sum of £40.  Harris was inspired by many bands including Jethro Tull and Wishbone Ash.

Previously Harris had wanted to be a footballer for West Ham and actually got signed to the youth team. Many other talented young players were also at the club, however, making the chances of getting through to play professionally very slim.  Harris was unable to join his friends when they went out to watch bands etc. due to the continuous training regime.  He abandoned his football career after realising that it just was not right for him and so began to build up a in depth knowledge about rock music.

He taught himself how to play the bass guitar by playing along to his favorite records.  Steve then joined his first band, called 'Influence', which later changed its name to 'Gypsy's Kiss'.

'Gypsy's Kiss' made their debut at a talent contest.  The band lasted for a small total of six gigs and then decided to call it a day.  Harris moved on and joined a band called 'Smiler'.  Steve learnt some valuable experience in the early years but felt too constricted due to the other band members not allowing him to put his songwriting abilities to good use.  They did not want the younger bass player taking the limelight and also prevented him from moving around the stage during a gig.  Harris began to realise that the only way to get what he wanted was to form his own band.