jimmy-bain

Jimmy Bain (Rainbow, Dio), RIP

Jimmy Bain in 1983 (photo by Dana Wullenwaber)
Jimmy Bain

More sad news in the music world. Bassist Jimmy Bain, who played with Ronnie James Dio and Ritchie Blackmore in Rainbow during the Rising era and was later a longtime member of the band Dio, has passed away. He was 68. His Dio bandmate Vivian Campbell posted the following on Facebook:

It’s with the heaviest of hearts that I must confirm the news of the passing of our dear friend and Last In Line band-mate, Jimmy Bain. It was Jimmy who gave me my first big break in the music industry and for that I am forever indebted.

Jimmy’s struggles with his demons were well documented through the years, but over the last 18 months he had finally won that battle and he was bright and lucid and motivated throughout the writing and recording of the new record. He leaves behind him a rich legacy of work from Rainbow, through Wild Horses, Dio, and finally, Last In Line. Jimmy was immensely proud of our new album and his input to it was immeasurable.

He was a very kind and gentle and generous soul and our lives were greatly enriched for having known him. We will continue to celebrate his life through his music.

On behalf of Vinny and Andrew, our thoughts and condolences are with his family at this most difficult of times.

Rest in peace, dear friend.

Rest in peace Jimmy. Say hi to Dio for us.

Stream Rising and check out a couple tweets by Dave Mustaine about Jimmy, below…