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Ex-DIO Bassist JEFF PILSON: I'm Gonna Miss RONNIE In Ways I've Never Missed Anyone Else

May 17, 2010

Bassist Jeff Pilson (DOKKEN, LYNCH/PILSON, WAR AND PEACE, STEEL DRAGON, FOREIGNER),who recorded and toured three studio albums with DIO — "Strange Highways" in 1993, "Angry Machines" in 1996, and most recently, "Master Of The Moon" in 2004, has issued the following statement regarding the passing of legendary heavy metal singer Ronnie James Dio (DIO, HEAVEN & HELL, BLACK SABBATH, RAINBOW):

"Saying a few words about Ronnie Dio is like being asked to describe an epic movie in one sentence. It just so barely even scratches the surface.

"I still can't believe he's gone. And as the reality becomes more apparent, I get sadder and sadder. But then something will happen like getting in my car and 'Stand Up and Shout' will come on the radio and it almost feels like the first time I've heard it. I mean, I've played the song hundreds of times and heard it thousands, but it all suddenly becomes so clear and Ronnie's message comes barreling out of the speakers. The empowerment, the voice that says, 'Yes, you can do it — anyone can.'

"That was Ronnie. The common man who was anything but common. A big voice and an even bigger heart. That was my friend.

"I'm gonna miss him in ways I've never missed anyone else. But thank God, I'll always have his body of work — all that wonderful music — to fall back on. Memories and music.

"I'm so privileged to have known, much less worked, with him. And I honestly believe the world is a better place for all he achieved, for all the joy he brought so many people — myself included.

"Rest in peace, Ron. You truly will never be forgotten!"

Video footage of Jeff Pilson performing the song "Pain" as a member of the DIO band in 1993 in Zürich, Switzerland can be viewed below.

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