It seems only right that I say something being the fan I am. But I find myself sitting here struggling to find the right words as I gaze at the picture of Murray and three angels playing cards inked into my arm.
A moment of silence would not be nearly long enough, nor would a eulogy that would rival an epic poem say enough to honor Ronnie James Dio. Certainly I do not proclaim to be able to find the right words to do so. I dont believe I could even truly express how I feel right now, for that matter even feel about the man.
I once had the privilege of meeting Dio and I will never forget that evening. Although I did not know him personally one meeting could make one feel like they knew him for a life time. To say Dio was kind, gracious, well spoken, would not begin to describe him. He had a presence that I had never felt before and pretty sure I never will again. And I will forevermore cherish the gift he gave me. As I asked him where he got his power he suavely waved out his hand and his fingers curved upwards has if his crystal ball was about to appear in his hand. He then raised his head looking up straight into my eyes and replied, Well Jeremy
it comes from the soul. I do believe what he said to me has helped me through a lot and will continue. I will always be grateful and for everything else he has given. In a world without heroes and full of fallen gods, where dreams more often shatter then come true we need to believe in magic and Dio gave us that.
I will not say that I will miss Dio because he is immortalized and will always be a part of me. When I gaze at the stars I will raise my horns high towards the heavens and then quickly drop them towards hell.
R.I.P. Rainbow King.
J. Golden
A few comments from others at H&H Records;
May 16th, 2010 will come to be known collectively as one of the saddest days in heavy metal history. There was only one Ronnie James Dio, a brilliant songwriter and performer who championed metal music and made such a very deep impact in the metal genre. Everyone in Witches Mark would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Wendi and the rest of Dio's family, friends and fans worldwide. We will always remember and miss you.
- Robert Williams, Witches Mark
The power. The voice. The metal singer that existed before metal. The metal singer that defined "metal singer." It's hard to believe that a man who was so vibrant, so much bigger than life, could fall to life's one true inevitability.
No one in the entire metal community was loved as much, as devoutly, and as equally across the board as Ronnie James. Only one musical group exists that could even challenge this, and it's one that he managed to jump in and rescue from a downward spiral and put an indestructible stamp on their legacy... all without the help of a hit reality show.
What John Lennon was to rock music, Ronnie James was to heavy metal. But while Lennon balanced his time between quirky pop songs and vast political statements, Dio balanced his time between awe-inspiring brilliant heavy music and just simply rockin' like a motherfucker. And that, my friends, is what heavy metal is all about.
But don't let this detract from his work with Children of the Night, Hear N' Aid, and all the wonderful things he's done that we don't even know about. It's easy to forget that Ronnie James was just a man, but don't ever forget how down-to-earth and brilliant he was. If you don't believe me, just look up any interview on YouTube. I dare you.
As much as I adore all my poster-laden drugged-out rock star idols of the last 60 years... none of them, on or off stage, hold a candle to Ronnie James Dio.
Long live rock n' roll...
Long live Ronnie James Dio...
-Elliot Madre, Praetorius
One of the forefathers of metal passes today and reminds us of our own mortality, when the likes of even a Metal God can enter on into the halls of valhalla leaving behind a legacy and definite mark amongst the millions who embraced his music with open eager hearts and horns held high.
- Jacob Edwards, Natu /Sabverata
Today metal has lost its most beloved ambassador. Dio means "god" in Italian and for many of us Ronnie was immortal. My first reaction to the news of his passing was sheer disbelief...it didn't seem possible for Dio to die. It will take time to fully realize the impact his death will have on the metal community, but I think it's safe to say that if heavy metal has ever been a part of your life, then in some way, so has Ronnie James Dio. Rest in peace brother.
- Josh Hart staff
Ronnie was a true musician, artist, performer, and metal visionary. His musical contributions literally defined what heavy metal is. Ronnie may be gone, but his memory will surely live on.
Epic man, rock on-
- Sam DeFilipp, Praetorius
"It would be difficult for anyone in the modern progressive musical landscape to not lend a nod to Ronnie James Dio. Whether it was with Black Sabbath or his solo pursuits, he tread ground that many of us now thoughtlessly follow. And now, another one is gone and will be missed. It is strange when we reflect on it - that we never seem to conceive of any of our musical heroes dying. And the world seems to reverberate with a chilling silence when we realize that a certain voice or a certain sound will never be created again - that there is no more of the story to be told. Many icons large and small have passed in the last few years and I think that many fans of music feel that sense of void. Yet, inspiration from these pioneers lingers on in the hearts of those who felt a kindred spirit in that music which has spanned generations. Whatever your feelings on the man or his music one cannot deny the respect that he indisputably earned by paving the way for so many of us musicians. I wish his family comfort in knowing that he will be remembered for generations. After all, immortality is only achieved in the memories of others. Here's to Dio."
- Chris Hathcock, The Reticent
Yesterday we lost an icon and one of the godfather's of heavy metal. His music has been a huge inspiration to me for a long time. The metal horns Dio made popular amongst metal maniacs will be eternally raised forever! Long Live Rock and Roll, Long Live Ronnie James Dio! Rest In Peace!
- Shannon Frye-Seventh Calling
Ronnie James Dio was and still is, one of the biggest vocal influences in the history of Heavy Metal. I know that many others will agree. A true showman through and through. Mr. Dio, you have always been a Hero among Heroes. You will be missed greatly in our world. R.I.P
- Steve Handel-Seventh Calling
What a tragic turn of events, and great loss of talent in ingenuity, the Heavy Metal world just lost one if it's forefathers and greatest influences. Horns up to you Ronnie - to all of us fortunate enough to witness your success, you will always be the true voice of metal.
- Alex Ritchey-Seventh Calling
Ronnie Dio has always been one of the best singers/writers, and has quite a legacy to behold. You have given us many yrs. of great music Mr. Dio. You will be missed. R.I.P.
- Marc Flores-Seventh Calling
