Heavy Metal rock legend James Dio died May 16th after a year long battle with Cancer. James Dio fronted the legendary metal band Black Sabbath after the departure of Ozzy. Ozzy was no doubt a larger than life frontman, but James Dio more than held his own. Dio was aso the lead singer for Rainbow and his own band, Dio. Although he was not the first to do it, he was the one who made the “horn sign” popular, a gesture referring to the devil.
He received many awards throughout his lifetime, he received the Metal Guru Award from Classic Rock Magazine in 2006, and was inducted into the Guitar Center’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2007. He sang for over 50 years, beginning his career in 1957 with the Vegas Kings.
In November of 2009, Dio’s wife, Wendy Galaxiola, announced that he was diagnosed with Stomach Cancer. She released the following statement:
“Ronnie has been diagnosed with the early stages of stomach cancer. We are starting treatment immediately at the Mayo Clinic. After he kills this dragon, Ronnie will be back on stage, where he belongs, doing what he loves best, performing for his fans. Long live rock and roll, long live Ronnie James Dio. Thanks to all the friends and fans from all over the world that have sent well wishes. This has really helped to keep his spirit up.”
Since his death, Wendy released the following statement:
“Today my heart is broken, Ronnie passed away at 7:45am 16th May. Many, many friends and family were able to say their private good-byes before he peacefully passed away. 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.”
Ozzy Osbourne released the following statement:
“I was very saddened to hear of the passing of Ronnie James Dio. Metal has truly lost one of its greatest voices. My heart goes out to his family and to his many fans.”
Long time friend and bandmate, Geezer Butler posted this simple yet powerful sentence on his official website: “Goodbye My Dear Friend.”
Needless to say the Metal world suffered a tremendous loss on Sunday. The best way to honor James Dio is to go out into your closet and get out those old red leather spandex pants. Crank up some of those classic Dio/Black Sabbath songs, throw up the “Horn Sign” and stick your tongue out and while playing the air guitar and just rock out! Long Live James Dio!
Two things:
1) he was the first to “throw up the horns”. He didn’t invent the hand gesture, but he was the first to apply it to heavy metal
2) he was also in the band Elf and the “Black Sabbath version 2.0” Heaven & Hell.