Remembering Ronnie James Dio On Fifth Anniversary Of His Death

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May 16, 2015, marks the fifth anniversary of legendary vocalist Ronnie James Dio, who is best known for his work with BLACK SABBATH, RAINBOW and his own band DIO.

The Ronnie James Dio Stand Up And Shout Cancer Fund, which is led by Dio‘s wife, Wendy, is hosting a weekend of celebratory activities to commemorate the anniversary. The events are taking place May 15-17 in Los Angeles, California. For more information go here.

A free public memorial service was held on May 30, 2010 at Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills Cemetery in Los Angeles, attended by more than 1,500 fans, friends and fellow musicians.

He is credited with popularizing the “metal horns” hand gesture in metal culture and is known for his medieval themed lyrics. Dio possessed a powerful versatile vocal range capable of singing both hard rock and lighter ballads and according to RAINBOW/DEEP PURPLE guitarist Ritchie Blackmore upon hearing him sing, “I felt shivers down my spine.” Dio sold over 47 million albums throughout his career.