FROM THE ARCHIVES: Ronnie James Dio (2000) interview with Darren Paltrowitz

Ronnie James Dio was the legendary frontman of Dio, Black Sabbath, Rainbow and Elf, beyond leading my all-time rock-oriented charity project, Hear 'N Aid.

In 2000, while still a teenager, I had the pleasure of interviewing Ronnie while he was promoting his then-new studio album "Magica" and an upcoming tour alongside Yngwie Malmsteen and Doro Pesch. Just a few years later, Ronnie would wind up regrouping with his Black Sabbath bandmates to form Heaven & Hell.

After our interview, Ronnie was kind enough to record an outgoing voicemail message for me. An excellent singer who was unbelievably-patient with my then-limited interviewing skills.