Sunday, May 23, 2010

Music News from Hothouse Rehearsal Studios

This week began with news of the passing of a metal legend, Ronnie James Dio, who succumbed to stomach cancer at the age of 67. As testimonies poured in from artists and fans alike about the talent and humanity of the former Rainbow/Black Sabbath vocalist, other music legends were remembered, as well. Martin Scorsese announced his plans to release a George Harrison documentary next year, and McCartney says the Beatles would have reunited.

Remembrances and Tributes Pouring in for Ronnie James Dio





As news of the passing of Ronnie James Dio continues to spread throughout the music world, legions of the singer’s musician-peers are posting tributes and remembrances on their websites. The heavy metal giant, who had been battling stomach cancer, died Sunday at 7:45 a.m., as reported by his wife, Wendy Dio, on the singer’s official Facebook page. Musicians ranging from Slash to Ozzy Osbourne to Ritchie Blackmore have posted comments, many of which we have gathered below:

Tony Iommi (Played with Dio in Black Sabbath and, recently, Heaven and Hell): “I’ve been in total shock I just can’t believe he’s gone. Ronnie was one of the nicest people you could ever meet, we had some fantastic times together. Ronnie loved what he did, making music and performing on stage. He loved his fans so much. He was a kind man and would put himself out to help others. I can honestly say it’s truly been an honor to play at his side for all these years; his music will live on forever. Our thoughts are with Wendy Dio who stood by Ronnie until the end, he loved her very much. The man with the magic voice is a star amongst stars, a true professional. I’ll miss you so much my dear friend. RIP.”

Geezer Butler (Played with Dio in Black Sabbath and, recently, Heaven and Hell): “Goodbye, my dear friend.”

Ritchie Blackmore (Rainbow colleague): “Ronnie had a unique and wonderful voice. He will be sadly missed in the rock and roll world.”

Ozzy Osbourne: “Rest in peace Ronnie.”

Slash: “Ronnie died at 7:45 am this morning, but his music will live for eternity.”

  • Scorsese Plans George Harrison Film for 2011




During an appearance at the Cannes Film Festival, Martin Scorsese told The Hollywood Reporter that his George Harrison documentary should come out next year.

For the past three years, the famous director has been developing the project with Harrison’s widow, Olivia. Tentatively titled Living in the Material World: George Harrison the documentary will cover the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer’s life before, during and after The Beatles.

Scorsese said he met Harrison multiple times during his life, and felt connected to his quest for spirituality.

“That subject matter has never left me,” Scorsese said. “The more you’re in the material world, the more there is a tendency for a search for serenity and a need to not be distracted by physical elements that are around you.”


  • Paul McCartney Says Beatles Would Have Reunited





Paul McCartney feels certain The Beatles would have reunited in recent years, at least for a one-off show, had all four members survived.

In a lengthy interview published Sunday, May 16, by Scotland’s Daily Record, the 67-year-old legend said, “It could’ve happened. We were asked to do reunion gigs shortly after we broke up. There wasn’t any point. It was like, we’ve just split. I also had Wings, so I was a bit busy doing other things. It wasn’t really a good idea then, but I think if this much time had elapsed, I could easily see it happening.”

McCartney went on to say not a day goes by that he doesn’t think about his late bandmates, John Lennon and George Harrison. He also said he always considers what Lennon would have thought of his work, as he’s composing.

“Now, if I write a song, I’m always cross-checking in my mind, ‘Would John have let me write that line, or is it just too soppy?’” McCartney said. “Sometimes, I just think, ‘Too bad, it’s my song.’ But I’m always cross-checking with him.”

To read the interview in its entirety, visit the Daily Record.

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