Dennis Stratton

Dennis William Stratton (born 9 October 1952 in Canning Town, East London, England) is a former member of Iron Maiden from December 1979 to October 1980.

Stratton was invited to join Iron Maiden as a second lead guitarist and backing vocalist by Steve Harris after he had seen Stratton playing with Remus Down Boulevard. The band, needing a new drummer after prior drummer Doug Sampson left the band, hired Clive Burr on Stratton's recommendation. Stratton participated in the recording and production of the group's first album, Iron Maiden in early 1980. He has also appeared in the home video recording Live at the Ruskin in early 1980 (released in 2004 as part of The History of Iron Maiden – Part 1: The Early Days DVD set), Iron Maiden's first video "Women in Uniform," the Women in Uniform single, some subsequent single releases, as well as in the band's first appearance on British TV ("Running Free" performed live on Top of the Pops) and the Live!! +one album. Some concert bootlegs exist including a memorable performance at the 1980 Reading Festival. Stratton was also a member of Iron Maiden during their 1980 European tour, supporting KISS. Stratton left Iron Maiden in October 1980. Accounts of the reason for Stratton' departure vary; Stratton has mentioned that he left due to conflicts with manager Rod Smallwood and Steve Harris. Both Smallwood and Harris said they rated him as a singer and guitarist. Officially the band stated "musical differences" being the reason for his leaving. Stratton was replaced by Adrian Smith.

Since the recording of the band's first album, Stratton has been the only member of Iron Maiden not to have contributed to the writing of any recorded material.