The Voice Of Iron Maiden's 'The Number Of The Beast' Ceases To Exist!

Barry Clayton, the voice behind the legendary intro of Iron Maiden's 'The Number Of The Beast' (title track of Maiden's classic 1982 album), has died at the age of 80. The legend says that during the recording sessions for this legendary Heavy Metal album, Iron Maiden wanted to have horror film actor Vincent Price record the famous intro, but according to Bruce Dickinson, Price asked for £25,000.

So how did they come across Barry Clayton? Well, the band came across a man who read ghost stories at Capital Radio and they felt that his voice was similar to the one of Vincent Price. That man was Barry Clayton.

According to the Islington Tribune, Clayton was a resident of Islington, which is in Greater London, England, for 40 years. He was a pioneer of black television and radio programming. He produced the "Black Londoners" radio program for the BBC — the first black daily radio program — from its first airing in 1974 until 1988 when he left to join Capital Radio.

Clayton's deep, booming voice will live forever in the minds of all Maiden fanatics, thanks to the intro for "The Number Of The Beast":

"Woe to You Oh Earth and Sea
For the Devil sends the beast with wrath
Because he knows the time is short
Let him who hath understanding
Reckon the number of the beast
For it is a human number
Its number is six hundred and sixty six."

Rest In Peace Clayton! Our hearts got out to your family, friends, and rest assured that your voice will live forever!



Related links:
Official Site of Iron Maiden