Lita Ford And The Time She Toured With Iron Maiden—And Gave Them A Run For Their Money

April 2, 2025

Lita Ford stood backstage, her heart racing as she listened to the roar of the crowd outside. She was about to step on stage with Iron Maiden, one of the most legendary heavy metal bands of all time. It was 1990, and Lita, already a well-known name in rock, had just released her album “Lita,” which featured songs like “Kiss Me Deadly.” But this tour was different; it was a chance to prove to the world that she could stand toe-to-toe with some of the best musicians in the business.

As the opening act, Lita knew she had to bring her A-game. Iron Maiden had a huge fan base, and she was determined to win them over. The lights dimmed as she walked onto the stage, her electric guitar slung over her shoulder, shining like a beacon of her fierce spirit. The moment she struck the first chord, the audience was captivated. With each note, she poured her heart into the music, her voice powerful and raw. When she played “Close My Eyes Forever,” the crowd swayed, some even singing along. She could feel their energy, the way it wrapped around her like a warm embrace, and it fueled her performance even more.

Backstage, the members of Iron Maiden watched with admiration. They knew Lita was not just any opening act; she was a force of nature. Even though she was often seen as an outlier in a male-dominated industry, she was proving that she belonged on the same stage as some of the best. After her set, she received cheers and applause that echoed like thunder. It was a moment that solidified her resolve to keep pushing boundaries in her music career.

As the tour continued across Europe, Lita’s confidence grew, and so did her reputation. Night after night, she faced the challenge of winning over not just thousands of rabid Iron Maiden fans but also her own doubts. Each performance was a test of her resilience, and with every show, she felt the thrill of overcoming fear and uncertainty. She was not just an opening act; she was a woman on a mission, breaking barriers and redefining what women could achieve in rock music.

When the tour ended, Lita looked back on those months with pride. She hadn’t just shared the stage with Iron Maiden; she had stood alongside them, showcasing her talent and passion. The experience opened doors for her music, leading to more concert opportunities and a larger fan base. In that time, she learned the power of believing in herself and the importance of community among musicians. It gave her a deeper appreciation for her craft and the courage to continue making her music, fueled by the knowledge that she could compete and thrive in the world of rock.

Lita Ford’s journey with Iron Maiden taught her that resilience and passion could take her places she had only dreamed of. She went on to inspire countless young musicians, showing them that no matter the obstacles, they could follow their dreams with determination and heart. And as Lita took the stage in cities around the world, she carried that spirit with her, proving that the music she loved could change lives, including her own.