Clive Burr Dies; Iron Maiden Drummer Was 56 >>Hollywood

Former Iron Maiden drummer Clive Burr has died from multiple sclerosis.

He was 56 years old. Steve Harris, the heavy metal band's founder and bass player, said upon hearing of Burr's death that it was "terribly sad news."

"He was a wonderful person and an amazing drummer who made a valuable contribution to Maiden in the early days when we were starting out."

Burr joined Iron Maiden in 1979 and played on their first three albums.

Lead singer Bruce Dickinson also paid tribute, saying: "Even during the darkest days of his MS, Clive never lost his sense of humour or irreverence."

"I first met Clive when he was leaving Samson and joining Iron Maiden," added Dickinson. "He was a great guy and a man who really lived his life to the full."

Megadeath bassist David Ellefson, who left his tribute on Facebook, said of Clive Burr: "He was one of my all time favourite Metal drummers."

"So sad," said Brian Slagal, CEO of Metal Blade Records. "Clive was a great guy."

"Always remember CLIVE for eternity," said Iron Maiden tribute band Coverslave.

When he was diagnosed with mu