Iron Maiden is a legendary British heavy metal band, known for their powerful vocals, galloping riffs, and vivid storytelling.
Blending classic metal with theatrical flair, they’ve shaped the genre with epic themes and high-energy performances.
Their music shows independence, intensity, and a great connection with fans worldwide.
About the Song
Fear of the Dark shows the rising tension of being alone in the night, where every shadow feels alive.
The song moves between soft, creeping verses and powerful climaxes, mirroring the emotional swings of fear itself.
Through blood lyrics and high-spirited instrumentation, Iron Maiden turns a common human fear into a chilling yet electrifying musical experience.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Released | 11 May 1992 |
| Album | Ed Hunter (1999) |
| Writer | Steve Harris |
| Producers | Steve Harris & Martin Birch |
Fear of the Dark Lyrics by Iron Maiden
Verse 1
I am a man who walks alone
And when I’m walking a dark road
At night, or strolling through the park
When the light begins to change
I sometimes feel a little strange
A little anxious when it’s dark
Chorus
Fear of the dark, fear of the dark
I have a constant fear that something’s always near
Fear of the dark, fear of the dark
I have a phobia that someone’s always there
Verse 2
Have you run your fingers down the wall
And have you felt your neck skin crawl
When you’re searching for the light?
Sometimes when you’re scared to take a look
At the corner of the room
You’ve sensed that something’s watching you
Chorus
Fear of the dark, fear of the dark
I have constant fear that something’s always near
Fear of the dark, fear of the dark
I have a phobia that someone’s always there
Verse 3
Have you ever been alone at night
Thought you heard footsteps behind
And turned around, and no one’s there?
And as you quicken up your pace
You find it hard to look again
Because you’re sure there’s someone there
Chorus
Fear of the dark, fear of the dark
I have constant fear that something’s always near
Fear of the dark, fear of the dark
I have a phobia that someone’s always there
Instrumental Break
Bridge
Fear of the dark, fear of the dark
Fear of the dark, fear of the dark
Fear of the dark, fear of the dark
Fear of the dark, fear of the dark
Fear of the dark, fear of the dark
Fear of the dark, fear of the dark
Fear of the dark, fear of the dark
Fear of the dark, fear of the dark
Verse 4
Watching horror films the night before
Debating witches and folklore
The unknown troubles on your mind
Maybe your mind is playing tricks
You sense, and suddenly eyes fix
On dancing shadows from behind
Chorus
Fear of the dark, fear of the dark
I have constant fear that something’s always near
Fear of the dark, fear of the dark
I have a phobia that someone’s always there
Fear of the dark, fear of the dark
I have constant fear that something’s always near
Fear of the dark, fear of the dark
I have a phobia that someone’s always there
Outro
When I’m walking a dark road
I am a man who walks alone
Live Performances
1. Fear Of The Dark (Live At Donington Park)
2. Fear Of The Dark (The Book Of Souls: Live Chapter)
Similar Songs Like Fear of the Dark
These Iron Maiden tracks echo the dark themes, emotional tension, and compositions that fans of Fear of the Dark will appreciate:
- Hallowed Be Thy Name: Opening with a slow tone, this track expresses fear and acceptance of fate before execution, blending dread, reflection, and power.
- The Number of the Beast:Driven by dark energy and bright imagery, it channels inner chaos, rebellion, and moral panic with soaring vocals and intense guitar riffs.
- Revelations:Beginning with haunting melodies, this song wrestles with faith, confusion, and awakening, offering emotionality wrapped in powerful riffs.
- Dance of Death: Blending storytelling with eerie melodies, this song takes listeners through a surreal pathway of temptation, mortality, and the supernatural.
Similar Artists Like Iron Maiden
If you enjoy Iron Maiden’s powerful storytelling, theatrical sound, and metal edge, these bands offer similar vibes with their own unique twist:
- Judas Priest
Genre: Heavy Metal
Top Album: British Steel - Dio
Genre: Heavy Metal
Top Album:Holy Diver - Saxon
Genre: NWOBHM (New Wave of British Heavy Metal)
Top Album:Wheels of Steel - Queensrÿche
Genre: Progressive Metal
Top Album:Operation: Mindcrime
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Fear of The Dark so Popular Live?
Its tempo, crowd-involving chorus, and emotional build make it a fan favorite during concerts, often accompanied by various stage effects.
Was Bruce Dickinson the Vocalist on Fear of The Dark?
Yes, Bruce Dickinson delivered a powerful and theatrical vocal performance that adds tension and emotion to the song’s atmosphere.
Has Fear of The Dark Been Covered by Other Artists?
Yes, several metal and rock bands have covered it over the years, paying tribute to its emotional richness and popular status.
What Makes Fear of The Dark Stand out in the Iron Catalog?
Its combination of haunting storytelling, live audience connection, and musical contrast makes it one of the band’s most memorable and enduring tracks.
