“The first Maiden record I ever got was 'Piece of Mind,' and I only got it because I thought the artwork was cool, and everyone talked about Iron Maiden. But they weren't necessarily the most popular metal band in America for a 12-year-old kid when I discovered them.”

American singer, lead vocalist and founding member of Avenged Sevenfold

M. Shadows, born Matthew Charles Sanders, is an American singer and the lead vocalist and founding member of the heavy metal band Avenged Sevenfold. He is known for fronting the group since its early days and for helping define its sound and public identity. His work is tied to heavy metal performance and the role of a modern frontman. In 2017, Ultimate Guitar ranked him third on its list of the Top 25 Greatest Modern Frontmen, reflecting his standing among contemporary rock vocalists.