Adrian Frederick “H” Smith (born 27 February 1957) is an English guitarist, best known as a member of British heavy metal band Iron Maiden, for whom he writes songs and performs live backing vocals on some tracks.
Smith grew up in London and became interested in rock music at 15. He soon formed a friendship with future Iron Maiden guitarist Dave Murray, who inspired him to take up the guitar. After leaving school at 16, he formed a band called Urchin, which he led until their demise in 1980. He joined Iron Maiden in November 1980, replacing Dennis Stratton. Following a short-lived solo project called ASAP, he left Iron Maiden in 1990 and, after a year-long hiatus, formed the band Psycho Motel. In 1997, Psycho Motel was put on hold when Smith joined the band of former Iron Maiden singer Bruce Dickinson. Smith and Dickinson would both return to Iron Maiden in 1999, after which the band gained new success. During his second tenure with Iron Maiden, Smith has also led the side projects Primal Rock Rebellion and Smith/Kotzen.
instruments played
Guitar
Vocals
Associated Acts
Urchin Iron Maiden The Entire Population of Hackney ASAP The Untouchables Psycho Motel Michael Kiske Bruce Dickinson Primal Rock Rebellion Smith/Kotzen Hear 'n Aid
Birth Name
Adrian Frederick Smith
Genres
Heavy metal progressive rock hard rock
Labels
DJM EMI Capitol Harvest Enigma Victor Sanctuary Raw Power Castle CMC Air Raid Columbia Portrait Parlophone Spinefarm BMG
Website
Years Active
1972 present
Name
Adrian Smith
Nationality
England