IRON MAIDEN guitarist ADRIAN SMITH has shared new insight into a previously undisclosed chapter of his career. In a recent interview featured on MetalJournal, the veteran musician revealed that he once auditioned for DEF LEPPARD during the early 1990s, following a devastating moment in the band’s history.
The revelation surfaced when ADRIAN SMITH was asked about long-standing rumors linking him to DEF LEPPARD after the tragic death of guitarist STEVE CLARK in 1991. For years, fans speculated about who might have stepped into Clark’s role during that turbulent period. Now, SMITH has confirmed that he was briefly part of that conversation.
A Call That Led to Los Angeles
According to ADRIAN SMITH, the opportunity came unexpectedly and through familiar faces. At the time, he had already stepped away from IRON MAIDEN and was exploring new creative paths.
Transcribed by MetalJournal:
“Yeah, I did. I went over to L.A. for a couple of days. Phil [Collen, Def Leppard guitarist] phoned me up — him and Ross Halfin [legendary rock photographer] phoned me up and said, ‘Would you be interested in coming over?’ I said, ‘Yeah.’ So I went to L.A. I played with him for a couple of days,” Smith explained.
The invitation alone reflected the high regard SMITH commanded within the rock and metal community. At that point in time, DEF LEPPARD were navigating emotional and professional uncertainty, while SMITH was in the midst of redefining his own career.
Inside the Audition Experience
Once in Los Angeles, ADRIAN SMITH spent time rehearsing and jamming with PHIL COLLEN, one of DEF LEPPARD’s core guitarists. The sessions, by his account, were positive and musically promising.
Transcribed by MetalJournal:
“I sat down with Phil. We went through some songs. It sounded good, it sounded good. And they’re a great bunch of guys. But it didn’t work out.”
Although the chemistry appeared strong, timing played a crucial role. SMITH explained that he was already deeply invested in another musical direction, which ultimately influenced the outcome.
Transcribed by MetalJournal:
“Plus I had — my Psycho Motel [band Smith formed after leaving Maiden in 1990] album was just about to come out, so I was kind of, you know… But who knows? It was worth pursuing. They did okay without me,” he continued.
Life After Temporarily Leaving IRON MAIDEN
The audition occurred during a transitional phase in ADRIAN SMITH’s career. After departing IRON MAIDEN in 1990, he shifted his focus toward exploring different musical styles and creative freedom. This period led to the formation of PSYCHO MOTEL, a band that allowed him to step outside the confines of traditional heavy metal.
Because of this commitment, joining DEF LEPPARD would have required a significant shift in priorities. While the opportunity was intriguing, SMITH appeared content with the direction he was already pursuing.
Nevertheless, his willingness to explore the audition highlights how open he was to new possibilities at the time.
DEF LEPPARD’s Difficult Chapter
For DEF LEPPARD, the early 1990s marked one of the most challenging eras in their history. The loss of STEVE CLARK left a profound emotional and musical void. Clark had been instrumental in shaping the band’s sound, and his passing forced the group to reconsider their future.
During this period, DEF LEPPARD faced the dual challenge of honoring Clark’s legacy while continuing forward as a band. Auditioning respected musicians like ADRIAN SMITH demonstrated their commitment to maintaining high artistic standards.
Eventually, DEF LEPPARD moved ahead and continued to find success without him, as SMITH himself acknowledged.
A “What If” Moment in Rock History
Looking back, ADRIAN SMITH’s audition with DEF LEPPARD stands as one of rock music’s intriguing “what if” moments. While the collaboration never materialized, the fact that it nearly happened offers fans a rare glimpse into the interconnected world of elite rock musicians.
Interestingly, SMITH would later return to IRON MAIDEN, rejoining the band in 1999 and becoming a vital part of their modern-era success. His return solidified one of heavy metal’s most celebrated guitar lineups, alongside DAVE MURRAY and JANICK GERS.
Reflecting on Timing and Choices
Ultimately, ADRIAN SMITH views the experience without regret. The audition represented a moment of possibility rather than a missed opportunity. By choosing to stay focused on PSYCHO MOTEL, he remained true to his creative instincts at the time.
Moreover, his comments reflect a broader truth about the music industry. Even highly respected artists often face crossroads where timing, commitment, and personal vision determine the outcome more than talent alone.
For fans of both IRON MAIDEN and DEF LEPPARD, ADRIAN SMITH’s revelation adds a fascinating layer to rock history. While the collaboration never came to fruition, it underscores the mutual respect shared among legendary musicians during difficult times.
As decades pass, stories like these continue to emerge, reminding fans that behind every iconic lineup are countless untold moments that shaped the music they love.
