Influential heavy metal singer Ronnie James Dio has died
(HMG) – Ronnie James Dio, the little man with the big voice has gone to heavy metal heaven. Ronnie died Sunday morning of stomach cancer.
“Many, many friends and family were able to say their private good-byes before he peacefully passed away,” his wife wrote on his website. “Ronnie knew how much he was loved by all.” We so appreciate the love and support that you have all given us. Please give us a few days of privacy to deal with this terrible loss. Please know he loved you all and his music will live on forever. — Wendy Dio
Ronnie first came on my radar as as the lead singer of Rainbow. Dio’s vocals caught the ear of Deep Purple guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, and when Blackmore left the band, he recruited Dio and other members of Elf to form Rainbow. Ronnie also followed Ozzy Osbourne as the lead vocalist for Black Sabbath in 1979 (check out the video below for a sample of his great work), and also had a fine career with his own band Dio. The rock Gods salute you you Ronnie, RIP.
I saw Ronnie James Dio fronting the Sabbs at Hammersmith in London – think it was 92. What a concert. What a singer. What a legend!
Over the years as a devout Sabbs fan, Ronnie bought me countless hours of pleasure listening to Heaven and Hell and Mob Rules during that era.
Heaven and Hell… Definitely Heaven for Ronnie.
RIP Ronnie James Dio
sorry for the loss. we have great memories to me and all,
my mother inlaw said to me memories live longer than dreams . i agree with that:)
all of the best to the family.xx