Bassist RUDY SARZO Explains How He Landed The DIO Gig

June 8, 2004

Former QUIET RIOT bassist Rudy Sarzo has spoken to ElectricBasement.com about his recent experience as the touring bassist for YNGWIE MALMSTEEN and his current gig with DIO. Asked how he hooked up with Ronnie James Dio, Sarzo replied, "What happened was someone gave me the heads-up that Ronnie was looking for a bass player early in the year, and I contacted Wendy Dio, his manager, and let her know I was available. We (QUIET RIOT) had recently disbanded. Not that many people were aware of my availability. She said Ronnie was working on songs with Craig Goldy and we'll call you in about a month. Meanwhile, I got a call from April Malmsteen [Yngwie's wife/manager] to go out on the road with Yngwie. I was really excited about that, so I went out on the road with him. While on tour with Yngwie, I got a call from Wendy asking me about my schedule, if I'd be able to go into the studio for the album. Of course, I was committed to the Yngwie tour, but she said, 'When you’re off the road with Yngwie, give me a call because we have tour dates lined up.' "

With regards to whether Ronnie had admired his bass playing for years and decided to check his availability, Sarzo said, "That's something I want to know (laughs). I have no idea. I went down to the studio and the tracks sounded amazing. They'd already done the photo sessions, but we did some great photos with me and [ex-DIO bassist] (Jeff) Pilson. We were bass bookends! I've known Jeff for a long time. He's a wonderful man and a great bass player. And great singer."

Read Rudy Sarzo's entire interview with ElectricBasement.com at this location.

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