Steve Harris

Early Life

Stephen Percy Harris was born on March 12, 1956, in Leytonstone, Essex, where he grew up with dreams of becoming a professional footballer. Scouted by Wally St Pier, he trained with West Ham United during his teenage years. However, his passion for rock music soon overshadowed his football aspirations, influenced significantly by The Beatles. Harris attended Leyton Senior High School for Boys, where he initially wanted to play drums but opted for the bass guitar due to space constraints at home. He became self-taught, purchasing his first bass for £40 in 1971.

Career

In 1975, after playing in several bands, including Smiler, Harris founded Iron Maiden, inspired by the film "The Man in the Iron Mask." He became the band's principal composer and lyricist, known for his distinctive galloping bass style that features prominently in tracks like "The Trooper" and "Run to the Hills." Harris's songwriting evolved over the years, incorporating progressive rock elements and themes of mythology and history. He also began contributing backing vocals and keyboards, with his keyboard work becoming notable on the 1986 album "Somewhere in Time." In addition to his work with Iron Maiden, he managed the hard rock band British Lion in the early 1990s.

Personal Life

Harris met psychotherapist Lorraine Jury in 1977, and they married, having four children together. His daughter Lauren is a singer and supported Iron Maiden on tour, while his son George plays guitar for the Raven Age. After divorcing in 1993, which he described as a challenging period, Harris continued to thrive in his career, later fathering two more children with his partner Emma. He has lived in a Grade II listed building in Essex and now primarily resides in the Bahamas, maintaining a passion for football throughout his life.