A Remorseful Tribute

[Remorseless Crusader]

I was stunned at the passing of Ronnie James Dio this week. Initial reports were that he had been diagnosed with stomach cancer in the early stages. My very first concert was Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow in 1978. It's hard to believe Ronnie and Cozy Powell are both gone.

I first heard Ronnie on the debut Rainbow album and was impressed with his powerful voice. He had the unenviable task of essentially replacing Ian Gillan and David Coverdale as Ritchie's singer. Ronnie held his own on stage with Ritchie and Cozy which was quite an accomplishment.

I don't blame Ronnie for leaving Rainbow which was never the same band again and ultimately crossing over and joining Black Sabbath given Ritchie's desire for a more commercial sound. He once referred to the other albums as Foreigner lite and I considered the Dio albums as Rainbow lite without the presence of either Ritchie or Cozy.

It's unfortunate that Ronnie's final years weren't spent in projects with Ritchie or his cousin. To his credit, Ronnie tried to convince Ritchie to reform Rainbow then became increasingly irritated when asked about the possibility of a reunion. I hope he and Ritchie spoke before he died.

After One Night in the Jungle and Third Wish, I was looking forward to Ronnie and Rock recording an album and touring together. At least, he performed on two songs for the Rods comeback album and recently added his vocals to one song for Rock's new solo album which may be his last recording.

I will remember Ronnie James Dio as being a worthy member of the purple family and the indisputable Voice of Rainbow. It's a shame his life was cut short.
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The Legendary Remorseless Crusader Almighty
Internationally Renowned Defender of the Deep Purple Faith