GLENN HUGHES, JORN LANDE To Front HEAVEN & HELL At RONNIE JAMES DIO Tribute Concert

On May 16, Ronnie James Dio passed away and the world of music mourned the loss of the greatest voice of heavy metal.

Dio was a truly iconic figure in music, whose work with ELF, RAINBOW, BLACK SABBATH, DIO and most recently, HEAVEN & HELL defined a genre.

HEAVEN & HELL was set to be on the road in Europe this summer when news came through that despite the amazing progress he was making Ronnie wouldn't be well enough to tour and those shows were canceled. But now, remaining members Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Vinny Appice are set to play a one-off show to celebrate his life and work. According to Black-Sabbath.com, the band will be completed by Glenn Hughes (BLACK SABBATH, DEEP PURPLE, TRAPEZE) and Jorn Lande (MASTERPLAN) who will both contribute vocals.

Hughes was a close friend of Ronnie's for many years and performed a musical tribute at Ronnie's funeral service in Los Angeles.

Although Norwegian Jorn Lande is best known as the vocalist for power metal band MASTERPLAN, he has also released many solo albums, including a tribute to Ronnie.

The concert promises to be a fitting celebration to a man that the metal scene owes so much.

"It's going to be a very emotional occasion," said Butler in a statement.

"Ronnie loved his fans like no one else I know — and they loved him. It will be a privilege doing a gig in honor of his memory, and to help towards his charity. Above all, I hope it encourages people to have regular check-ups for this disease. Early detection is vital, and greatly improves the chance of a cure.

"I know everyone has heard that a million times before, but seeing one of your best friends die, because we all think we're immune from this disease, really brings it home.

"Do it for yourself, your family, your friends. Ronnie would be proud of you."

Tony Iommi added: "Ronnie's passing has left a huge hole. We hadn't anywhere near finished what we set out to do as a band together. He was so looking forward to the European tour and we hope this appearance will go some way to fulfilling that."

The Ronnie James Dio "Stand Up And Shout" Cancer Fund program description:

* The fund is committed to the early detection and prevention of cancer through facilitating access to medical screening and medical educational programs.

* The fund supports programs designed to integrate medical knowledge into local communities such as cancer screening programs, education on nutrition in cancer prevention, exercise and overall wellness."

* The goal of the fund is to reduce the risk of developing life threatening cancers by offering access to preventative medical services."

* Furthering the commitment for patients to access to quality medical care related to cancer, the fund seeks to assist families burdened by the cost of caring for loved ones with cancer."

Tickets for High Voltage festival are priced £135 (for weekend tickets) and £75 (for day tickets). There is no booking fee for Classic Rock Presents High Voltage tickets. Other VIP packages available alongside standard tickets from www.highvoltagefestival.com or 24hr cc ticketline 0871 230 5582.

(Thanks: Black-Sabbath.com)