(Classic Rock) Ronnie James Dio's solo career came about after a series of unplanned events, Dio drummer Vinny Appice has recalled. He believes the iconic vocalist, who died in 2010, had no clear direction for the band when he formed it in 1982 - and he'd expected to remain with Black Sabbath instead.

But arguments over the Live Evil album led to Dio and Appice quitting Tony Iommi's band - and a change of direction for the singer's solo project. Appice tells the Silk And Steel Power Hour: "Ronnie had a solo deal while he was in Black Sabbath. His first plan was to stay with Black Sabbath and do a solo record with all his friends on it.

"He wanted me to play on it, Cozy Powell, all his friends in different bands. It would be like an all-star album. Then things soured up with Sabbath. Things got a little bit funky, and he decided, that's it, he's leaving. Then it became, he's going to use that record deal to launch a new career. That's when he asked me if I wanted to join, and I said yes." Read more here.

Related Stories

Sebastian Bach Leads Rock For Ronnie Concert In The Park Lineup

Rivetskull To Pay Tribute To Ronnie James Dio With Special Show

Dion Celebrates Book Release With 'New York Minute' Video

Rivetskull Celebrating Ronnie James Dio With New Tour

Doug Aldrich Underwent Cancer Surgery (2024 In Review)