Number Of The Beast Voice Over: The Story Behind It

Hey guys! Ever wondered about that spine-chilling voice-over at the beginning of Iron Maiden's legendary track, "Number of the Beast"? It's one of the most recognizable intros in heavy metal history, instantly setting a dark and dramatic tone for the song. But what exactly is it, and where does it come from? Let's dive deep into the story behind this iconic piece of metal history and uncover the mystery behind the spoken words that launched one of the greatest metal albums of all time.

This iconic opening isn't just some random spooky recitation; it's a carefully selected excerpt from the Book of Revelation, specifically Revelation 12:12 and 13:18. These verses, filled with vivid imagery of the beast and the devil, perfectly complement the song's themes of evil, temptation, and the struggle between good and evil. Choosing these specific passages wasn't arbitrary, it was a deliberate artistic decision to enhance the narrative power of the song and plunge the listener directly into the heart of the beastly tale. The band wanted to create a sense of foreboding and dread, and the biblical text served as the ideal vehicle for conveying this atmosphere. The dramatic and theatrical nature of the verses, combined with the powerful music, created a truly unforgettable listening experience. The verses touch on the fall of Satan and the mark of the beast, adding layers of complexity and intrigue to the song's already captivating themes. The selection highlights the eternal conflict between heaven and hell, a common theme explored in much of Iron Maiden's work.

Who is the Voice Behind the Beast?

The big question, of course, is who is the man behind the menacing voice? The answer isn't as straightforward as you might think! While many fans initially assumed it was the band's vocalist, Bruce Dickinson, the truth is a bit more nuanced. The voice actually belongs to actor Barry Clayton. Clayton, a British actor with a rich, theatrical voice, was known for his voice-over work in horror films and radio dramas. His distinctive delivery, filled with gravitas and a hint of menace, made him the perfect choice to deliver the biblical verses. Iron Maiden's manager, Rod Smallwood, had the brilliant idea to bring Clayton in to add that extra layer of drama to the song. The band was looking for a voice that could convey the weight and darkness of the lyrics, and Clayton's performance exceeded all expectations. His voice perfectly captured the ominous tone they were aiming for, adding a sense of authenticity and dread to the intro. It's a testament to his talent that his voice is still so closely associated with the song, decades after its release. Barry Clayton's involvement in "The Number of the Beast" solidified his place in metal history, even though he wasn't a musician himself. His contribution is a vital part of what makes the song so memorable and impactful.

The Urban Legend and the Mix-Up

Now, here's where things get a little interesting. There's a famous urban legend surrounding the recording of the voice-over. The story goes that Barry Clayton, a professional voice actor, was initially paid a relatively small fee for his work. However, after the song became a massive hit, he supposedly sent Iron Maiden a bill for a much larger sum, claiming he should be compensated more fairly for his contribution to the song's success. This story, while widely circulated, is actually not true. Clayton himself has denied the incident, and there's no evidence to support it. It's a classic example of a rock and roll myth, a tall tale that has grown over the years. Another interesting tidbit is the initial mix-up over the payment for the voice-over session. Due to a misunderstanding, Clayton was paid the session rate for a single B-side track instead of the higher rate for an album track. This error was quickly rectified, and Clayton was properly compensated for his work. The story highlights the often-chaotic nature of the music industry and the potential for miscommunication, even on such a high-profile project. Despite the initial hiccup, Clayton remained on good terms with the band, and his contribution to "The Number of the Beast" remains a celebrated part of his legacy. These little behind-the-scenes details add another layer of intrigue to the story of the song, showing the human side of creating a metal masterpiece.

Why the Voice-Over Works So Well

So, what makes this voice-over so effective? It's more than just the dramatic reading and the powerful subject matter. The placement of the voice-over at the very beginning of the song is crucial. It immediately grabs the listener's attention and sets the stage for the epic musical journey that follows. The contrast between the spoken word and the explosive instrumental introduction creates a dynamic tension that keeps you hooked from the first second. Barry Clayton's delivery is also key. He doesn't just read the verses; he performs them. His voice drips with theatricality and a sense of impending doom, perfectly capturing the mood of the song. The production of the voice-over is also noteworthy. The reverb and slight echo added to Clayton's voice give it an otherworldly quality, as if the words are being spoken from some dark and distant realm. This adds to the overall sense of unease and mystery. The voice-over acts as a powerful narrative device, instantly establishing the themes and setting the tone for the entire album. It's a masterclass in using spoken word to enhance the impact of music. By incorporating such a theatrical element, Iron Maiden elevated "The Number of the Beast" from a mere song to a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.

The Legacy of the Voice-Over

The "Number of the Beast" voice-over has left an indelible mark on heavy metal. It's been imitated, parodied, and referenced countless times, a testament to its enduring power. It's become a quintessential element of the metal soundscape, a touchstone for bands looking to create a dramatic and epic atmosphere. The voice-over also sparked some controversy upon the album's release. Some religious groups misinterpreted the song's themes, accusing Iron Maiden of Satanism. This, of course, was a gross misrepresentation of the band's artistic intentions. The song is a work of fiction, exploring dark and fantastical themes, not an endorsement of any particular belief system. The controversy, however, only served to amplify the song's notoriety and solidify its place in metal history. The "Number of the Beast" voice-over continues to inspire awe and fascination among metal fans. It's a reminder of the power of spoken word to enhance music and create a truly unforgettable listening experience. It's a timeless example of how a simple creative choice can have a lasting impact on the world of art.

In conclusion, the voice-over in Iron Maiden's "Number of the Beast" is more than just a spooky intro; it's a carefully crafted piece of art that adds depth, drama, and a sense of epic storytelling to the song. The combination of the biblical verses, Barry Clayton's masterful performance, and the song's overall themes has created a metal masterpiece that continues to resonate with fans around the world. So, the next time you hear that iconic voice, remember the story behind it and appreciate the artistry that went into creating one of metal's most legendary moments. Rock on, guys!