God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen

Ronnie James Dio

Ronald James Padavona (July 10, 1942 – May 16, 2010), better known as Ronnie James Dio, was an American rock and heavy metal vocalist and songwriter. He performed with, among others, Elf, Rainbow, Black Sabbath, Heaven & Hell, and his own band Dio. Other musical projects include the collective fundraiser Hear 'n Aid. He was widely hailed as one of the most powerful singers in heavy metal, renowned for his consistently powerful voice. He often ranks as one of the greatest vocalists of all time.[citation needed] His idol was Mario Lanza[citation needed] and he rightly belongs in that class along with the other greats of all time.[citation needed] He is credited with popularizing the "metal horns" hand gesture in metal culture. Prior to his death, he was col… more »