Ronnie James Dio's Heaven and Hell Bandmates Post Emotional Tributes [Music World News]

The three remaining members of Heaven & Hell have paid tribute to Ronnie James Dio who died, aged 67, from stomach cancer on Sunday.

His Black Sabbath and Heaven & Hell bandmate Tony Iommi posted an emotional statement in tribute to his “dear friend.”

He wrote: “I’ve been in total shock, I just can’t believe he’s gone. Ronnie was one of the nicest people you could ever meet, we had some fantastic times together. Ronnie loved what he did, making music and performing on stage. He loved his fans so much. He was a kind man and would put himself out to help others. I can honestly say it’s truly been an honor to play at his side for all these years, his music will live on forever. Our thoughts are with Wendy Dio who stood by Ronnie until the end, he loved her very much. The man with the magic voice is a star amongst stars, a true professional. I’ll miss you so much my dear friend.”

Drummer Vinny Appice, who also worked with Ronnie in Black Sabbath and Dio, said the singer was “everything” to him.

“Hey, Ron, I never thought the day would come so suddenly,” Vinny said. “Ronnie was everything to me. He was my best friend, he was my brother. I sat behind him on my drums each night and played, watching him sing, hearing his roaring voice through my monitors. Every night he sent chills down my spine with his singing, inspiring me to push it further and play the best I can to the limit.

“I always knew how lucky I was to be in a band with him, but to become friends was even more special.

“When I met Ronnie I was a kid, 21 years old, eyes wide opened. He took me under his wing, he showed me the way, he was the greatest teacher and inspiration in my life and most of all, the greatest rock singer in the world!

“My heart is so broken. We are now in a world without him and I will miss him so much. I can only think of how fortunate I was to make music with him that was in his heart. Music that will remain to be listened to by all his fans all over the world, whom he adored and loved!

“Ronnie, I love you, man!”

Yesterday, band bassist Geezer Butler posted an incredibly moving statement, writing:

“I can truly say I’ve never known anyone to have such loyal, loving friends, fans, and family as Ronnie. He really was a special person, blessed with a unique voice and presence. He loved his fans — he would stay meeting and talking to them until the early hours of the morning.

“One of my fondest memories of him comes from last year, at the Sonisphere Festival, Knebworth. He noticed my sister and her husband at the side of the stage. During our opening song, he took the time to go over and hug them. Just a little thing like that made him special to me.

“Of course his music will live on forever, as will his influence.

“I have never seen so many tributes from so many musicians and fans, so many good wishes, no cynicism, just pure love and appreciation for a great man.

“God bless you, Ronald — thank you so much for the wonderful memories.”

(by Scott Colothan)

Ronnie James Dio's Heaven and Hell Bandmates Post Emotional Tributes

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