The loss of Ronnie James Dio was one of the most devastating blows heavy metal has ever been dealt. The singer's fantasy-themed lyrics took us away to magical places, offering keen words of advice along the way. As Metal Allegiance paid tribute to fallen heroes on Jan. 20, they took the time to honor one of heavy metal's defining figures as well as the more recently deceased Dio bassist Jimmy Bain.

With Alex Skolnick, Phil Demmel, Mike Portnoy and David Ellefson serving as the night's primary musicians, they added to their ranks by bringing out a number of guest musicians -- vocalists Mark Osegueda, Chris Jericho and Chuck Billy, guitarist Gus G. and former Dio and Black Sabbath drummer Vinny Appice.

Before kicking off the typical Dio set closer, "We Rock," Appice took time to address the crowd. "This next song is going to go out to one of my best friends in all the world that we all miss: Ronnie James...," he said, pointing at the crowd, who eagerly responded by screaming, "Dio!" The drummer also recognized bassist Jimmy Bain, who passed away last year.

Ronnie James Dio passed away on May 16, 2010 after a courageous battle with stomach cancer. Bain was lost on Jan. 26, 2016, succumbing to lung cancer.

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