Bruce Dickinson – August 2012 Classic Rock Birthdays

The pride of Nottinghamshire, Iron Maiden's own strong-voiced Bruce Dickinson, turns 54 on Aug. 7.

After he earned some notoriety as singer of the popular hard rock band Samson, Dickinson was approached by Iron Maiden's manager to audition for that group's frontman position, which he ultimately won.

He went on to help Maiden become one of the most popular metal bands of all time, with a string of hit albums and a never-ending series of sold-out tours. He's also expanded his resume to radio, television, writing and even aviation.