Six O’Clock Triple Shot – 7/10/14 Ronnie James Dio’s Birthday

(The Six O'Clock Triple Shot is a daily feature of three songs that share a common theme, heard weeknights on 94.9 WMMQ)

For the second night in a row, we pay homage to a late, great rock star on his birthday. Tonight, we celebrate the life of Ronnie James Dio born July 10, 1942, deceased May 16, 2010. Dio lost a battle with stomach cancer, just as he was set to embark on a tour with Heaven & Hell, the band name assumed by former Black Sabbath mates Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Vinny Appice. The group put forth one LP and a 98-show tour in support in 2008. Dio, of course, had many musical ventures throughout his life, including stints with Elf, Rainbow, Sabbath, Dio, and many others. Recently, former members of Dio, including Vivian Campbell (Def Leppard) formed Last In Line, a Dio cover band whose name is derived from the LP and song title. Also this year, some of metal's best, including Metallica, Anthrax, and Killswitch Engage, compiled a tribute album to Dio, Ronnie James Dio: This Is Your Life. Proceeds from the LP benefit Dio's Stand Up And Shout Cancer Fund.

Tonight, three from Ronnie James Dio's illustrious, inspirational, and influential career for your Six O'Clock Triple Shot. From the Black Sabbath days, "Heaven and Hell"; from Rainbow's Rainbow Rising LP, "Stargazer"; and the classic "Holy Diver" from the Dio album of the same name. It's going to be an ass-kicker tonight, only on 94.9 WMMQ!!