Ronnie James Dio
Ronnie James Dio
10.07.1942 - 16.05.2010 (67 years) (Portsmouth, New Hampshire, USA)
Ronald James Padavona (July 10, 1942 – May 16, 2010), known professionally as Ronnie James Dio or simply Dio, was an American singer, songwriter, and musician. He fronted and/or founded numerous groups including Elf, Rainbow, Black Sabbath, Dio, and Heaven & Hell. He is credited with popularizing the "metal horns" hand gesture in metal culture and was known for his medieval-themed lyrics. Dio possessed a powerful, versatile vocal range, and was capable of singing both hard rock and lighter ballads.