Bassist Rudy Sarzo (known for his work with QUIET RIOT, OZZY OSBOURNE, WHITESNAKE, and DIO) was recently interviewed by Metal-Rules‘ Marko Syrjala. In this discussion, Sarzo delves into his illustrious career and upcoming projects. In a particular segment, Sarzo reflects on his experiences working alongside the late metal icon Ronnie James Dio.
As for how he would briefly describe working with Ronnie, Rudy says: “You know, if Ronnie was still alive, I would be – that’s what I would be doing. I was his last bass player, and when I played with Ronnie, of course, I did not know that he was going to pass away. Nobody had any idea.
“Just one day, he and Wendy Dio walked in, and Wendy was saying that Ronnie was ill. As a matter of fact, we were rehearsing on November 16th; that’s when he did not show up to the rehearsal. He went over to the doctor, and they told him that he must see an oncologist right away. We were supposed – we were leaving the following day to come to the UK and start the tour and do the usual Christmas tour in Scandinavia. And it did not happen. Then, six months later, he passed away on May 16th.”
When asked if Ronnie ever spoke about his days in BLACK SABBATH or Ozzy Osbourne, considering two musicians were portrayed as each other’s major rivals, especially regarding their history with BLACK SABBATH, as often depicted in the media, Sarzo responded: “Yes. I once asked Ronnie, ‘Who’s the King of Rock and Roll? Look, who did you write that song for?’ He said, ‘Well, it’s Ozzy.’
“So that’s the ultimate compliment. I mean, for your rival [laughter], no, Ronnie, he never saw Ozzy as a rival. He’s so unique in what he does. There are two BLACK SABBATHS, the Ozzy version and the Ronnie version of the band. I enjoyed them both. But the only records I bought were the Ronnie versions of the band because there were more interesting songs.”
