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Dio

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description Dio Overview

Dio was a British heavy metal band formed in London in 1972, known for Ronnie James Dio’s powerful vocals and operatic influences alongside hard-hitting riffs and epic song structures that defined the genre's sound.

help Dio FAQ

When did Ronnie James Dio form the band Dio?

Ronnie James Dio formed the band Dio in 1982 after departing from Black Sabbath. They quickly released their debut album, 'Holy Diver', that same year, cementing their place in heavy metal history.

What is Dio's most famous song?

The band's biggest commercial hit is 'Rainbow in the Dark' from their 1983 debut album 'Holy Diver'. The track features one of the most recognizable synthesizer riffs in 1980s heavy metal, played by keyboardist Jimmy Bain.

Did Dio ever reunite with Black Sabbath after forming his own band?

Yes, Ronnie James Dio returned to Black Sabbath in 1991 to record the album 'Dehumanizer'. After leaving Sabbath again, he continued to tour and release music with his eponymous band throughout the 1990s and 2000s.

Who played guitar on Dio's early albums?

Vivian Campbell played lead guitar on Dio's first three studio albums, including 'Holy Diver' and 'The Last in Line'. He later left the band and eventually joined the rock band Def Leppard in 1992.