A Legacy of Metal

Today is yet another day of mourning. As I was getting ready to sit down and watch some hockey playoffs, I decided to check on these reports of Ronnie James Dio's death. The worst fears were founded when I read the following on the official RJD website:

"Today my heart is broken, Ronnie passed away at 7:45am 16th May. Many, many friends and family were able to say their private good-byes before he peacefully passed away. Ronnie knew how much he was loved by all. We so appreciate the love and support that you have all given us. Please give us a few days of privacy to deal with this terrible loss. Please know he loved you all and his music will live on forever." Love, Wendy

And just like that, there is yet another eulogy that has to be written. However, there just simply isn't any words that can do justice to a man who leaves behind a legacy of metal, from Rainbow to the band bearing his namesake to being a vocalist in Black Sabbath (post-Ozzy) and most recently, fronting Heaven and Hell, which was Black Sabbath plus RJD on vocals. Most people couldn't even begin to dream about accomplishing what Dio did in his sixty-seven years on this planet, and when you throw in the fact that he was willing to poke fun at himself, as he made an appearance in the Tenacious D movie "Tenacious D and the Pick of Destiny," the accomplishments are even more amazing.

As we mourn the loss of a true metal legend, the following words should be taken to heart for all: Long live Rock N' Roll!