Rock stars you met in person

[Huge Ackman]

I saw Adrian Belew in a very tiny club in Petaluma, CA, in 2009. I was in the frontest front row and spent the night just a few feet from Mr. Belew. After the show, the band was out and talking with fans and I had Adrian sign me. I snagged the pick he used that night as well as a set list from the stage. I worked for a company in Detroit and Jack White's "Third Man Records" was next door. Jack came around often and I met & talked with him a number of times. Al Jarreau was a college friend of my dad's. I met him and got to hang after the show with him and George Duke. This was a very special meeting. I had a great sound check meet & greet with Andy Gill (R.i.P.) of Gang of Four in Denver in 2015. I saw Stick Men in a tiny club in Detroit and met Tony Levin and Pat Mastelotto after the show. Got an autograph from Tony and snagged one of Pat's used sticks from the show. Does Michael Bolton count? :laughing guy: How about Paul Simon? Met them both. I was in Michael Bolton's movie, "American Dream - Detroit", helped him test ride the bike he eventually bought from us. Alice Cooper was a pretty frequent visitor also. Met and spoke with him quite a few times as well as had a nice back stage meet & greet at his show in Kalamazoo. Oh, and then there was this funny looking Canuck "singer" I met at a book store in Chicago last summer. Can't imagine what his singing voice must be like. He sounded like he had been breathing helium when he talked... Gary something.... Rock on!

[RUSHHEAD666]

[J2112YYZ]

I saw Adrian Belew in a very tiny club in Petaluma, CA, in 2009. I was in the frontest front row and spent the night just a few feet from Mr. Belew. After the show, the band was out and talking with fans and I had Adrian sign me. I snagged the pick he used that night as well as a set list from the stage. I worked for a company in Detroit and Jack White's "Third Man Records" was next door. Jack came around often and I met & talked with him a number of times. Al Jarreau was a college friend of my dad's. I met him and got to hang after the show with him and George Duke. This was a very special meeting. I had a great sound check meet & greet with Andy Gill (R.i.P.) of Gang of Four in Denver in 2015. I saw Stick Men in a tiny club in Detroit and met Tony Levin and Pat Mastelotto after the show. Got an autograph from Tony and snagged one of Pat's used sticks from the show. Does Michael Bolton count? :laughing guy: How about Paul Simon? Met them both. I was in Michael Bolton's movie, "American Dream - Detroit", helped him test ride the bike he eventually bought from us. Alice Cooper was a pretty frequent visitor also. Met and spoke with him quite a few times as well as had a nice back stage meet & greet at his show in Kalamazoo. Oh, and then there was this funny looking Canuck "singer" I met at a book store in Chicago last summer. Can't imagine what his singing voice must be like. He sounded like he had been breathing helium when he talked... Gary something.... Rock on!

 

I've heard nothing but good things about meeting Alice Cooper. He seems to have a very similar approach to meeting fans that Dio did.

[stoopid]

None.

 

Honestly it's kinda hard to believe, but I guess I haven't put in the bit of extra effort needed. There's definitely a list I could come up with. Would I want to put any effort into it? Nah. :P

Edited March 30, 2020 by stoopid

[RUSHHEAD666]

None.

 

Honestly it's kinda hard to believe, but I guess I haven't put in the bit of extra effort needed. There's definitely a list I could come up with. Would I want to put any effort into it? Nah. :P

 

Hahaha! Well Stoopid! How fitting.

 

I will use your post while I go into my own "GHOST" Thread.

 

I have lived for it Stoopid.

 

So here we go.

 

If anyone has any questions after you read my list, please go for it.

 

Everything is authentic and legit.

 

 

 

 

Here we go....

 

Right from the top.

 

 

Geddy Lee

Alex Lifeson

Neil Peart

 

James LaBrie Signed my "Images And Words" ticket at The Stone in SF. Told me he loves Rush too. Duh.....lol

John Petrucci

John Myung

Kevin Moore

Mike Portnoy Met him twice in my life. "Images" Tour he was quiet. But then on his birthday at The Fillmore Metal Allegiance gig. So nice. Talked about Rush and drumming.

 

Alex Skolnick

John Bush

Dave Ellefson

 

Eric Martin

 

Dave Meniketti

Leonard Haze

Phil Kennemore

Joey Alves

 

Stef Burns

 

John Nymann

Mike Vanderhule

 

Jimmy DeGrasso

 

Ron Keel

 

Don Dokken

 

George Lynch

 

Geoff Tate

Michael Wilton

Eddie Jackson

Chris DeGarmo

Eddie Jackson

Scott Rockenfield

 

Vinny Appice

Simon Phillips

Steve Gadd

Stewart Copeland

Billy Cobham

Dave Weckl

 

Michael Schenker! He's a fuckking strange dude, but he was very nice to me.

 

ICE-T

 

Perry Ferrell

 

ACE FREHLEY!

 

Pat Travers! Twice

 

Kevin DuBrow

Frankie Banali

Carlos Cavazo

Rudy Sarzo Met him in Quiet Riot and I met him hanging out at a local fair in the summer while in Blue Oyster Cult. It's a great connection for me, because I talked to Rudy about RUSH because they were playing in Concord on the same night. But BOC did two shows. I saw the 5 pm gig and then raced home to Concord.

Changed clothes and took my little girl Zoe to the show. She cried but she saw a Neil Peart solo. She cried because the bass pedals were going though her little body. She was scared. We were tenth row. My bad. Wow! I love this thread. So many amazing memories. I saw I met Rudy and by the way I told him I was seeing RUSH later that night. Do you know what Rudy said to me? "Wow dude, I didn't know that RUSH was in town!!! I think Geddy Lee is a great keyboard player!" I swear. From one bass player about another. Right?

Everything I am typing in this white box tonight is true. Thank you for making my brain work tonight. I love it.

When I write my book it will all be on The Rush Forum. I love you 73!!!! I am not kissing ASS! I mean it. lol

 

I live for this man. I am fuckking crazy. No regrets.

 

Mikkey Dee

 

Scott Ian

 

Vince Neil Good story.... I flew to Vegas like 15 years ago to meet my wife in Vegas for a tax seminar. This was when things with Wendy were amazing. Damn I miss those years. Anyway I guess I am a bad boy. I had Wendy Exit Stage Left her tax class around 2 pm when I woke up at 1 pm. lol

It was 107 degrees that day.

She came up to the room We stayed at the famous Stardust before they blew it up. I came lot there too. lol Oh the good young days. I actually saw Don Rickles at the Stardust years later. Amazing man.

Anyway, I got Wendy to come out of the seminar.

We went over to the new Wynn Casino.

I hit a 500 dollar jackpot on an Avalanche slot.

So we went down to the bar to celebrate. We both went outside and slammed a Coronavirus with Lyme. lol

Went back in and Wendy taps me on the shoulder.....

"Earl, look it's Vince Neil!"

I'm like "Where?" lol

He was at the bar in a cool Hawaiian print shirt. Tan and shit with platinum blonde hair.

You now me right? No fear.

I walked up to Vince and shook his hand. I said.... "Vince I fuckking love you man. Been into Motley Crue since the beginning. I love you guys!!!!"

Vince smiled and said "Thanks."

I then was stupid..........

 

I said..... "I don't care what anyone says Vince! I still think your vocals kick ass!!!"

 

Well that was dumb. Poor Vince. He looked down at the ground and shook his head.

 

I said, "No Vince, I am sorry! I didn't mean that in a bad way. I think you are awesome!!

 

Vince said, "It's ok man." I felt bad and I gave Vince a hug! He was so cool. I felt horrible. Hence the story has stuck.

 

 

 

ACCEPT

 

Udo Dirkschneider three times.

Peter Baltes twice

Stefan Schwarzmann

Herman Frank

Wolf Hoffmann

Mark Tornillo

 

Europe

 

Joey Tempest

Jojm Leven

Mic Michaeli

Ian Haugland

Kee Marcello

 

Scorpions

 

Klaus Meine

Mattias Jabs

Rudolf Schenker. I was at Tower Records for a meet and greet at Tower Records in my home town Concord CA. I was like next in line. I had "IN TRANCE" on LP to be signed. I said to my friend, "Damn I am nervous." Rudolf heard me. He stopped signing some guy's album and said to me.... "Why are you nervous? It's destiny."

James Kottack. James was next to Rudolf and smiled. James looked up to me and said.... "no worries dude, everybody poops." It was classic.

Ralph Rieckermann

 

I met many members of DEATH ANGEL. All in line for Rush tickets. lol "Presto" Tour. We bonded listening to Eric Johnson and "Operation Mindcrime" on a boombox together.

 

Fukk I should write a book. No one would read it.

 

Joe Satriani! Went to Hyde Studios in SF to see him and his band play "Surfing With The Alien." Very intimate experience. After the gig we all got to hang out with Joe.

You Rush bois and goes would be proud of me. I asked him about what he thought about Alex Lifeson and Dave Meniketti. Of course he loves them both!! Joe was well.. Joe Cool! I love him.

 

Marillon Time.

 

 

Met FISH three times in my life. Once at Tower Records. I tried to put baby Zoe on his lap and she started to cry. Fish tried. Wow, that was like 21 years ago. Fish was so cool. Signed my "Script Gatefold Lp to Earl. it's on my wall forever. Sorry Pat. I am sorry you hate Marillion. LOVE LOVE THEM.

That same few days I met FISH again. Drunk as a skunk. So funny. I love him

Then years later met him by his bus outside of the American Music Hall.

 

Met Steven Rothery twice in my life. Both times a gentleman and so amazing and sweet. I don't know who on the RUSH Forum thinks that Rothery has no tone but wow. I feel so sorry for you.

 

Rothery is better than David Gilmour.

 

I met

 

Mark Kelly

Pete Trewavas twice. Once in person and once on the cell phone. lol I was trying to park in Japantown to see Marillion at The Fillmore.

My buddy was in there early. He calls me and hands his phone to Pete.

Pete and I are talking on the phone for 20 minutes while I was trying to find a parking spot. lol Classic!

Ian Mosley

 

I know Enchant is a prog band from the USA and they are really good friends of mine so I must mention them too because I know Enchant was doing very well in Europe.

 

Trust me. Paul Craddick is one of my best friends. He was the original drummer in that band and everywhere I would go here with him to a show. People would always recognize him.

 

So to my good friends in Enchant!

 

Doug Ott

Ed Platt

Ted Leonard Also in Spock's Beard!

Sean Flaegan

Bill Jenkins

 

Michael "Benignus"

 

I love these guys Forum. I still own their cassette demos from the beginning when Enchant was called "Mae Dae."

 

I go way back kids. I will challenge anyone on here with music knowledge. Except Pat. He blows me away. lol

 

And to my great friend Paul Craddick. Amazing drummer and friend.

 

He recorded a great album with his wonderful wife Hannah. The project is called "Rocket Moth." It's wonderful. Stevie Nicks meets Porcupine Tree. But it's incredible.

 

Hannah and Paul are on the "Wishing Tree" album. Steve Rothery is on that album too.

 

Go buy it or download it.

 

I am very lucky and I thank the Universe everyday.

I take nothing for granted.

 

You may think I'm fuckking crazy and hate me.

 

I don't care.

 

I have everything I need it life. I hope to find real love again.

 

What is wrong with that?

 

Nothing.

 

So funny.

 

I said "Ghost" thread to Stoopid.

 

Well yes.

 

I met everyone in GHOST. 2015? RENO. Goose has my back.

 

I met Tobias and three out of the four ghouls. The keyboard player was awol.

 

Tobais was so nice. I told you all this story so many times.

 

Tobias wanted to sign my Ghost Poster. I gave him the black sharpie and the poster.

I asked him.... "What instrument do you play?" He signed Papa on my poster.

 

I laughed and said... "Damn Tobias I am so sorry!"

He said, don't worry about it, it happens all the time.

I then told him that RUSH had retired forever after the LA FORUM show and that from now on "Ghost is my new RUSH. I will travel to see you."

 

Tobias kneeled down to me in the Reno parking lot in front of his beat up old brown tour bus.

 

Tobias. Shook my hand and told me "That is one of the greatest compliments I have ever been told. Thank you."

 

It was amazing.

 

GHOST FOREVER!

 

Oh and the Ghost Merch guy and I have been friends since the beginning too.

 

I don't care if you know my last name.

 

His name is the same as mine!! Earl Ramer!!!

 

Oh shit.

 

I am not close to Brad but we are friends.

 

BRAD GILLIS!

 

I met Jack Blades too! Great guy! It was at the RUSH INDUCTION! Jack loved my RASH Tee. Told him my Rush story. Said I was the biggest RUSH Fan in the world. Was going to tell Geddy Alex and Neil that their biggest fan was out there. Jack got to watch soundcheck.

 

 

I shit I met Paul Shaffer in the lobby of our LA hotel on the way to the Induction.

 

 

Endless.

 

Hope I have more chapters to write.

 

I live for ROCK AND ROLL!

Edited March 30, 2020 by RUSHHEAD666

[RUSHHEAD666]

Oh shit! For ReRushed!

 

I met Angelo Moore from Fishbone at a small club before the gig in Oakland.

I told Angelo that I loved him.

 

He high fived me and said "Thanks dude."

Edited March 30, 2020 by RUSHHEAD666

[RUSHHEAD666]

Oh shit! For ReRushed!

 

I met Angelo Moore from Fishbone at a small club before the gig in Oakland.

I told Angelo that I loved him.

 

He high fived me and said "Thanks dude."

 

Damn!

 

I forgot another one.

 

Jason Newsted from METALLICA.

 

I used to work at Alamo Safeway.

 

Jason always shopped there with or without his girlfriend.

I always checked out his groceries back then.

He was soooooo cool and down to earth.

I would tell him that I bought a new drum kit. DW. He loved it.

We would talk rock and roll and metal many times.

So nice.

I actually had the balls to ask him if he wanted to jam sometime with me. Bass and drums.

He was polite and wanted to. But it never happened.

Edited March 30, 2020 by RUSHHEAD666

[custom55]

Members of Yes: Jon Anderson, Steve Howe, Chris Squire, Rick Wakeman and Alan White.

[driventotheedge]

Damn Earl, freaking awesome!

 

Forgot the late Rob Grill, lead singer of The Grass Roots. Still have a ticket he signed when they were on an oldies bill I attended with Chad & Jeremy, Herman's Hermits and Tommy James & The Shondells.

Edited March 30, 2020 by driventotheedge

[Huge Ackman]

I saw Adrian Belew in a very tiny club in Petaluma, CA, in 2009. I was in the frontest front row and spent the night just a few feet from Mr. Belew. After the show, the band was out and talking with fans and I had Adrian sign me. I snagged the pick he used that night as well as a set list from the stage. I worked for a company in Detroit and Jack White's "Third Man Records" was next door. Jack came around often and I met & talked with him a number of times. Al Jarreau was a college friend of my dad's. I met him and got to hang after the show with him and George Duke. This was a very special meeting. I had a great sound check meet & greet with Andy Gill (R.i.P.) of Gang of Four in Denver in 2015. I saw Stick Men in a tiny club in Detroit and met Tony Levin and Pat Mastelotto after the show. Got an autograph from Tony and snagged one of Pat's used sticks from the show. Does Michael Bolton count? :laughing guy: How about Paul Simon? Met them both. I was in Michael Bolton's movie, "American Dream - Detroit", helped him test ride the bike he eventually bought from us. Alice Cooper was a pretty frequent visitor also. Met and spoke with him quite a few times as well as had a nice back stage meet & greet at his show in Kalamazoo. Oh, and then there was this funny looking Canuck "singer" I met at a book store in Chicago last summer. Can't imagine what his singing voice must be like. He sounded like he had been breathing helium when he talked... Gary something.... Rock on!

 

 

I've heard nothing but good things about meeting Alice Cooper. He seems to have a very similar approach to meeting fans that Dio did.

 

Indeed. He was always super friendly and even remembered my name on the third or fourth time he came around.... In fact, all of these "stars" were all incredibly down to earth. The least receptive was Geddy but that was so understandable under the circumstances. We we just starting to roll through this book signing at 4 p.m. and there were 600+ of us lined up around the block. Word was that he had attended the Cubs game earlier so had been out & about all day, now faced 5-6 hours, or more, of us fawning fanbois to deal with. Luckily, I was about the 10th body to stop and say, "Hey..." so he was pretty attentive. The idea of the book signing was just turnstyle GO! as fast as we can but I had a small gift to give and short story to tell so did that. I got his attention when I mentioned that I had been at the Aug. 1, 2015 show at The Fabulous Forum as a guest of Irving Azoff (I guess Irving should count as another rock star that I've met.... he was among the 2020 RnRHoF nominees, wasn't he?). I told Geddy that I'd sent a gift to the band via Irving's wife and wondered if he remembered getting it. I had sent three leather journal covers, along with the writing journal to fill, embossed with each guy's nickname.... Dirk, Lerxst and Pratt.... "I guess I should ask if you got those?"..... "No, I'm sorry. I don't recall seeing that...", said Ged. "Well then. The three new journals, meant as refills are now just new journals for you to put to use if you like.... Thanks for everything over the years. It has meant the world to me...." And we left with a fist bump and Ged's, "Cheers..." and his caution not to close the book too quickly to avoid smearing the ink of his signature.... So, I guess that was a pretty awesome encounter after all, eh?!

 

I should mention that I also spent a couple of days hanging with Lukas Nelson and the members of his "Promise of The Real" band when they played a gig for our store in Detroit in 2014 or so.

 

And one last boast... Not really a "rock" star but a wonderful encounter none-the-less... I had a very quality meeting with Steve Martin and all the members of The Steep Canyon Rangers when they came to visit us in Detroit. He was very nice but skiddish and scooted out as soon as customers recognized him and started taking photos. This photo is from The Bridge School Benefit that I attended in 2012 and where Steve & SCR performed. Rock on!

 

[RUSHHEAD666]

Damn Earl, freaking awesome!

 

Forgot the late Rob Grill, lead singer of The Grass Roots. Still have a ticket he signed when they were on an oldies bill I attended with Chad & Jeremy, Herman's Hermits and Tommy James & The Shondells.

 

Thanks Driven!! Oldies but goodies! Nice.

 

 

So I woke up this morning with a brainstorm and guess what??

 

There's more!!! LOL

 

Hung out with:

 

Alex Skolnick Testament

 

Stephen Pearcy RATT Great guy. He loved my "Invasion Of Your Privacy" tee.

 

I forgot that I saw KROKUS in Reno with my ex. We partied with them after the show! Marc Storace was so cool! He told me right to my face that he did indeed try out for the Bon Scott replacement in AC/DC but Arista Records wouldn't let him out of the contract with Krokus.

 

I have to give a shout out to John Carpenter. As he is not a "rock star" the man is a Legend with the pen, the camera and his synthesizers. I was lucky enough to see John and his band four times over two years ago. His band actually does rock! His son Cody also plays keys. John's guitar player is related to the lead singer of the KINKS.

I was able to meet all three of these guys three times. They were all very friendly except John was quiet and grumpy. But right before he was about to sign my "Halloween III" poster (and I know Tommy Lee Wallace directed it but John and Alan did the score) I told John that I really like the gig I saw in Anaheim.

He looked me bewildered and said..... "You are traveling to see up perform?" I said... "Yes John! I was actually on vacation this week and from San Diego I drove up to Anaheim then back here to the Bay where I live." I said.. "I will see all of you guys tomorrow night too in Santa Cruz." John shook his head in disbelief. lol

As I got up I said my goodbyes. I said... "you three are awesome. Just like my favorite band RUSH!" John looked up at me and in a serious voice said.... "thanks, but we aren't RUSH!" Classic.

 

I was able to hang out with all the guys from TESLA.

 

Frank Hannan and Brian Wheat. Very nice.

 

I was able to go to the Judas Priest Afterparty in Concord. "British Steel" Album Tour. I was very excited hoping to meet Rob, but no such luck.

However I was able to chat with Scott Travis. A very brief encounter. That's for you PAT!

 

I met Fee Waybill from The Tubes.

 

This was a big one and I can't believe I forgot this one last night.

 

Met and hung out with Alan Parsons. Nice guy. Genius.

 

I met Mike Stern once.

 

I did a meet and greet with the Legendary Italian Prog Horror group GOBLIN! Love them.

 

Silly me, I saw the Carl Palmer Band in SF wit the ex.

After the show I was able to chat with him. Great guy.

 

Hung out with the lead singer of Junkyard! David Roach Great guy!

 

Pat! I also forgot to mention I was able to hang out with Michael Starr, lead singer of STEEL PANTHER! He is sooooooo funny. Great guy!! STEEL PANTHER RULES!

 

And finally for now! lol

 

I met Hank Von Helvete! He is the ex lead singer of the great death punk band TURBONEGRO!!! I have tried soooooo hard over the years to get you Rush Maniacs into this band. Oh well. My little secret.

 

 

ROCK ON!!!

[HemiBeers]

Oh shit! For ReRushed!

 

I met Angelo Moore from Fishbone at a small club before the gig in Oakland.

I told Angelo that I loved him.

 

He high fived me and said "Thanks dude."

 

Damn!

 

I forgot another one.

 

Jason Newsted from METALLICA.

 

I used to work at Alamo Safeway.

 

Jason always shopped there with or without his girlfriend.

I always checked out his groceries back then.

He was soooooo cool and down to earth.

I would tell him that I bought a new drum kit. DW. He loved it.

We would talk rock and roll and metal many times.

So nice.

I actually had the balls to ask him if he wanted to jam sometime with me. Bass and drums.

He was polite and wanted to. But it never happened.

My wife went to middle school with Jason. Maybe someday she'll dig up the yearbook photo.

[Rick N. Backer]

I met Ronnie James Dio at a record store signing in 1998. He was playing a show here that night and the signing was that afternoon. You could buy a Dio CD in the store or bring one item of your own for him to sign. I only shook his hand and told him how much I love his music. He said "Thank you! That means so much to me" Then he asked me my name and signed the CD I brought and that was it. My older brother went with me but didn't bring anything to sign. He just wanted to meet the man and shake his hand. Dio seemed a bit surprised that he didn't have anything for him but was still appreciative of the fact he waited in line just to shake hands with him.

 

Dio was a very nice person and was genuinely interested in talking to the fans. While waiting in line, I noticed he treated everyone like he was meeting an old friend he hadn't seen in a while. Even though most of the people were no doubt complete strangers to him.

 

It was obvious Ronnie understood how important the fans were. His reaction to the ovation on the Radio City album comes across as so genuine.

[RUSHHEAD666]

Oh shit! For ReRushed!

 

I met Angelo Moore from Fishbone at a small club before the gig in Oakland.

I told Angelo that I loved him.

 

He high fived me and said "Thanks dude."

 

Damn!

 

I forgot another one.

 

Jason Newsted from METALLICA.

 

I used to work at Alamo Safeway.

 

Jason always shopped there with or without his girlfriend.

I always checked out his groceries back then.

He was soooooo cool and down to earth.

I would tell him that I bought a new drum kit. DW. He loved it.

We would talk rock and roll and metal many times.

So nice.

I actually had the balls to ask him if he wanted to jam sometime with me. Bass and drums.

He was polite and wanted to. But it never happened.

My wife went to middle school with Jason. Maybe someday she'll dig up the yearbook photo.

 

That's so cool! Small world. Would love to see that pic one day.

[RUSHHEAD666]

I met Ronnie James Dio at a record store signing in 1998. He was playing a show here that night and the signing was that afternoon. You could buy a Dio CD in the store or bring one item of your own for him to sign. I only shook his hand and told him how much I love his music. He said "Thank you! That means so much to me" Then he asked me my name and signed the CD I brought and that was it. My older brother went with me but didn't bring anything to sign. He just wanted to meet the man and shake his hand. Dio seemed a bit surprised that he didn't have anything for him but was still appreciative of the fact he waited in line just to shake hands with him.

 

Dio was a very nice person and was genuinely interested in talking to the fans. While waiting in line, I noticed he treated everyone like he was meeting an old friend he hadn't seen in a while. Even though most of the people were no doubt complete strangers to him.

 

It was obvious Ronnie understood how important the fans were. His reaction to the ovation on the Radio City album comes across as so genuine.

 

That is so awesome. I always wanted to meet Ronnie. Dave Meniketti told me a few wonderful stories about that man. He had a heart of gold and thought Dave Meniketti was one of the greatest guitar players on the planet. Ronnie was right.

[J2112YYZ]

I met Ronnie James Dio at a record store signing in 1998. He was playing a show here that night and the signing was that afternoon. You could buy a Dio CD in the store or bring one item of your own for him to sign. I only shook his hand and told him how much I love his music. He said "Thank you! That means so much to me" Then he asked me my name and signed the CD I brought and that was it. My older brother went with me but didn't bring anything to sign. He just wanted to meet the man and shake his hand. Dio seemed a bit surprised that he didn't have anything for him but was still appreciative of the fact he waited in line just to shake hands with him.

 

Dio was a very nice person and was genuinely interested in talking to the fans. While waiting in line, I noticed he treated everyone like he was meeting an old friend he hadn't seen in a while. Even though most of the people were no doubt complete strangers to him.

 

It was obvious Ronnie understood how important the fans were. His reaction to the ovation on the Radio City album comes across as so genuine.

 

That is so awesome. I always wanted to meet Ronnie. Dave Meniketti told me a few wonderful stories about that man. He had a heart of gold and thought Dave Meniketti was one of the greatest guitar players on the planet. Ronnie was right.

 

It's funny how you have met all these musicians and the big one that I met is one that you didn't.

[RUSHHEAD666]

I met Ronnie James Dio at a record store signing in 1998. He was playing a show here that night and the signing was that afternoon. You could buy a Dio CD in the store or bring one item of your own for him to sign. I only shook his hand and told him how much I love his music. He said "Thank you! That means so much to me" Then he asked me my name and signed the CD I brought and that was it. My older brother went with me but didn't bring anything to sign. He just wanted to meet the man and shake his hand. Dio seemed a bit surprised that he didn't have anything for him but was still appreciative of the fact he waited in line just to shake hands with him.

 

Dio was a very nice person and was genuinely interested in talking to the fans. While waiting in line, I noticed he treated everyone like he was meeting an old friend he hadn't seen in a while. Even though most of the people were no doubt complete strangers to him.

 

It was obvious Ronnie understood how important the fans were. His reaction to the ovation on the Radio City album comes across as so genuine.

 

That is so awesome. I always wanted to meet Ronnie. Dave Meniketti told me a few wonderful stories about that man. He had a heart of gold and thought Dave Meniketti was one of the greatest guitar players on the planet. Ronnie was right.

 

It's funny how you have met all these musicians and the big one that I met is one that you didn't.

 

I know dude! Crazy!! Just wasn't meant to be but I do have one Ronnie story for you. I've told it before.

But Wendy and I had second row for Alice Cooper and Heaven And Hell. Of course it was a sausage fest on the floor so Ronnie walks right up to Wendy and gives her the double devil horn salute and a smile. It was EPIC!

[J2112YYZ]

I met Ronnie James Dio at a record store signing in 1998. He was playing a show here that night and the signing was that afternoon. You could buy a Dio CD in the store or bring one item of your own for him to sign. I only shook his hand and told him how much I love his music. He said "Thank you! That means so much to me" Then he asked me my name and signed the CD I brought and that was it. My older brother went with me but didn't bring anything to sign. He just wanted to meet the man and shake his hand. Dio seemed a bit surprised that he didn't have anything for him but was still appreciative of the fact he waited in line just to shake hands with him.

 

Dio was a very nice person and was genuinely interested in talking to the fans. While waiting in line, I noticed he treated everyone like he was meeting an old friend he hadn't seen in a while. Even though most of the people were no doubt complete strangers to him.

 

It was obvious Ronnie understood how important the fans were. His reaction to the ovation on the Radio City album comes across as so genuine.

 

That is so awesome. I always wanted to meet Ronnie. Dave Meniketti told me a few wonderful stories about that man. He had a heart of gold and thought Dave Meniketti was one of the greatest guitar players on the planet. Ronnie was right.

 

It's funny how you have met all these musicians and the big one that I met is one that you didn't.

 

I know dude! Crazy!! Just wasn't meant to be but I do have one Ronnie story for you. I've told it before.

But Wendy and I had second row for Alice Cooper and Heaven And Hell. Of course it was a sausage fest on the floor so Ronnie walks right up to Wendy and gives her the double devil horn salute and a smile. It was EPIC!

 

I saw that tour. Queensryche opened. Great show. I love Sabbath to death but I'm not so sure Cooper shouldn't have been the headliner for that.

[RUSHHEAD666]

I met Ronnie James Dio at a record store signing in 1998. He was playing a show here that night and the signing was that afternoon. You could buy a Dio CD in the store or bring one item of your own for him to sign. I only shook his hand and told him how much I love his music. He said "Thank you! That means so much to me" Then he asked me my name and signed the CD I brought and that was it. My older brother went with me but didn't bring anything to sign. He just wanted to meet the man and shake his hand. Dio seemed a bit surprised that he didn't have anything for him but was still appreciative of the fact he waited in line just to shake hands with him.

 

Dio was a very nice person and was genuinely interested in talking to the fans. While waiting in line, I noticed he treated everyone like he was meeting an old friend he hadn't seen in a while. Even though most of the people were no doubt complete strangers to him.

 

It was obvious Ronnie understood how important the fans were. His reaction to the ovation on the Radio City album comes across as so genuine.

 

That is so awesome. I always wanted to meet Ronnie. Dave Meniketti told me a few wonderful stories about that man. He had a heart of gold and thought Dave Meniketti was one of the greatest guitar players on the planet. Ronnie was right.

 

It's funny how you have met all these musicians and the big one that I met is one that you didn't.

 

I know dude! Crazy!! Just wasn't meant to be but I do have one Ronnie story for you. I've told it before.

But Wendy and I had second row for Alice Cooper and Heaven And Hell. Of course it was a sausage fest on the floor so Ronnie walks right up to Wendy and gives her the double devil horn salute and a smile. It was EPIC!

 

I saw that tour. Queensryche opened. Great show. I love Sabbath to death but I'm not so sure Cooper shouldn't have been the headliner for that.

 

Hahaha! Right! Ryche opened!! Great show and I must agree. Funny dude, I remember telling my ex that Alice Cooper stole the show that night. "Elected" was killer.

[J2112YYZ]

I met Ronnie James Dio at a record store signing in 1998. He was playing a show here that night and the signing was that afternoon. You could buy a Dio CD in the store or bring one item of your own for him to sign. I only shook his hand and told him how much I love his music. He said "Thank you! That means so much to me" Then he asked me my name and signed the CD I brought and that was it. My older brother went with me but didn't bring anything to sign. He just wanted to meet the man and shake his hand. Dio seemed a bit surprised that he didn't have anything for him but was still appreciative of the fact he waited in line just to shake hands with him.

 

Dio was a very nice person and was genuinely interested in talking to the fans. While waiting in line, I noticed he treated everyone like he was meeting an old friend he hadn't seen in a while. Even though most of the people were no doubt complete strangers to him.

 

It was obvious Ronnie understood how important the fans were. His reaction to the ovation on the Radio City album comes across as so genuine.

 

That is so awesome. I always wanted to meet Ronnie. Dave Meniketti told me a few wonderful stories about that man. He had a heart of gold and thought Dave Meniketti was one of the greatest guitar players on the planet. Ronnie was right.

 

It's funny how you have met all these musicians and the big one that I met is one that you didn't.

 

I know dude! Crazy!! Just wasn't meant to be but I do have one Ronnie story for you. I've told it before.

But Wendy and I had second row for Alice Cooper and Heaven And Hell. Of course it was a sausage fest on the floor so Ronnie walks right up to Wendy and gives her the double devil horn salute and a smile. It was EPIC!

 

I saw that tour. Queensryche opened. Great show. I love Sabbath to death but I'm not so sure Cooper shouldn't have been the headliner for that.

 

Hahaha! Right! Ryche opened!! Great show and I must agree. Funny dude, I remember telling my ex that Alice Cooper stole the show that night. "Elected" was killer.

 

Iommi's guitar tone was massive on that tour. The heaviness just engulfed the air and that's what everyone was breathing in during the performance.

[RUSHHEAD666]

I met Ronnie James Dio at a record store signing in 1998. He was playing a show here that night and the signing was that afternoon. You could buy a Dio CD in the store or bring one item of your own for him to sign. I only shook his hand and told him how much I love his music. He said "Thank you! That means so much to me" Then he asked me my name and signed the CD I brought and that was it. My older brother went with me but didn't bring anything to sign. He just wanted to meet the man and shake his hand. Dio seemed a bit surprised that he didn't have anything for him but was still appreciative of the fact he waited in line just to shake hands with him.

 

Dio was a very nice person and was genuinely interested in talking to the fans. While waiting in line, I noticed he treated everyone like he was meeting an old friend he hadn't seen in a while. Even though most of the people were no doubt complete strangers to him.

 

It was obvious Ronnie understood how important the fans were. His reaction to the ovation on the Radio City album comes across as so genuine.

 

That is so awesome. I always wanted to meet Ronnie. Dave Meniketti told me a few wonderful stories about that man. He had a heart of gold and thought Dave Meniketti was one of the greatest guitar players on the planet. Ronnie was right.

 

It's funny how you have met all these musicians and the big one that I met is one that you didn't.

 

I know dude! Crazy!! Just wasn't meant to be but I do have one Ronnie story for you. I've told it before.

But Wendy and I had second row for Alice Cooper and Heaven And Hell. Of course it was a sausage fest on the floor so Ronnie walks right up to Wendy and gives her the double devil horn salute and a smile. It was EPIC!

 

I saw that tour. Queensryche opened. Great show. I love Sabbath to death but I'm not so sure Cooper shouldn't have been the headliner for that.

 

Hahaha! Right! Ryche opened!! Great show and I must agree. Funny dude, I remember telling my ex that Alice Cooper stole the show that night. "Elected" was killer.

 

Iommi's guitar tone was massive on that tour. The heaviness just engulfed the air and that's what everyone was breathing in during the performance.

 

Agreed. Incredible thick and heavy tone.

[J2112YYZ]

I met Ronnie James Dio at a record store signing in 1998. He was playing a show here that night and the signing was that afternoon. You could buy a Dio CD in the store or bring one item of your own for him to sign. I only shook his hand and told him how much I love his music. He said "Thank you! That means so much to me" Then he asked me my name and signed the CD I brought and that was it. My older brother went with me but didn't bring anything to sign. He just wanted to meet the man and shake his hand. Dio seemed a bit surprised that he didn't have anything for him but was still appreciative of the fact he waited in line just to shake hands with him.

 

Dio was a very nice person and was genuinely interested in talking to the fans. While waiting in line, I noticed he treated everyone like he was meeting an old friend he hadn't seen in a while. Even though most of the people were no doubt complete strangers to him.

 

It was obvious Ronnie understood how important the fans were. His reaction to the ovation on the Radio City album comes across as so genuine.

 

That is so awesome. I always wanted to meet Ronnie. Dave Meniketti told me a few wonderful stories about that man. He had a heart of gold and thought Dave Meniketti was one of the greatest guitar players on the planet. Ronnie was right.

 

It's funny how you have met all these musicians and the big one that I met is one that you didn't.

 

I know dude! Crazy!! Just wasn't meant to be but I do have one Ronnie story for you. I've told it before.

But Wendy and I had second row for Alice Cooper and Heaven And Hell. Of course it was a sausage fest on the floor so Ronnie walks right up to Wendy and gives her the double devil horn salute and a smile. It was EPIC!

 

I saw that tour. Queensryche opened. Great show. I love Sabbath to death but I'm not so sure Cooper shouldn't have been the headliner for that.

 

Hahaha! Right! Ryche opened!! Great show and I must agree. Funny dude, I remember telling my ex that Alice Cooper stole the show that night. "Elected" was killer.

 

Iommi's guitar tone was massive on that tour. The heaviness just engulfed the air and that's what everyone was breathing in during the performance.

 

Agreed. Incredible thick and heavy tone.

 

When some of those riffs hit I nearly fell back in my seat. It was almost too much heaviness for mere humans to handle lol.

[RUSHHEAD666]

I met Ronnie James Dio at a record store signing in 1998. He was playing a show here that night and the signing was that afternoon. You could buy a Dio CD in the store or bring one item of your own for him to sign. I only shook his hand and told him how much I love his music. He said "Thank you! That means so much to me" Then he asked me my name and signed the CD I brought and that was it. My older brother went with me but didn't bring anything to sign. He just wanted to meet the man and shake his hand. Dio seemed a bit surprised that he didn't have anything for him but was still appreciative of the fact he waited in line just to shake hands with him.

 

Dio was a very nice person and was genuinely interested in talking to the fans. While waiting in line, I noticed he treated everyone like he was meeting an old friend he hadn't seen in a while. Even though most of the people were no doubt complete strangers to him.

 

It was obvious Ronnie understood how important the fans were. His reaction to the ovation on the Radio City album comes across as so genuine.

 

That is so awesome. I always wanted to meet Ronnie. Dave Meniketti told me a few wonderful stories about that man. He had a heart of gold and thought Dave Meniketti was one of the greatest guitar players on the planet. Ronnie was right.

 

It's funny how you have met all these musicians and the big one that I met is one that you didn't.

 

I know dude! Crazy!! Just wasn't meant to be but I do have one Ronnie story for you. I've told it before.

But Wendy and I had second row for Alice Cooper and Heaven And Hell. Of course it was a sausage fest on the floor so Ronnie walks right up to Wendy and gives her the double devil horn salute and a smile. It was EPIC!

 

I saw that tour. Queensryche opened. Great show. I love Sabbath to death but I'm not so sure Cooper shouldn't have been the headliner for that.

 

Hahaha! Right! Ryche opened!! Great show and I must agree. Funny dude, I remember telling my ex that Alice Cooper stole the show that night. "Elected" was killer.

 

Iommi's guitar tone was massive on that tour. The heaviness just engulfed the air and that's what everyone was breathing in during the performance.

 

Agreed. Incredible thick and heavy tone.

 

When some of those riffs hit I nearly fell back in my seat. It was almost too much heaviness for mere humans to handle lol.

 

Oh I know dude! Totally!! I was deaf for a day!

[J2112YYZ]

I met Ronnie James Dio at a record store signing in 1998. He was playing a show here that night and the signing was that afternoon. You could buy a Dio CD in the store or bring one item of your own for him to sign. I only shook his hand and told him how much I love his music. He said "Thank you! That means so much to me" Then he asked me my name and signed the CD I brought and that was it. My older brother went with me but didn't bring anything to sign. He just wanted to meet the man and shake his hand. Dio seemed a bit surprised that he didn't have anything for him but was still appreciative of the fact he waited in line just to shake hands with him.

 

Dio was a very nice person and was genuinely interested in talking to the fans. While waiting in line, I noticed he treated everyone like he was meeting an old friend he hadn't seen in a while. Even though most of the people were no doubt complete strangers to him.

 

It was obvious Ronnie understood how important the fans were. His reaction to the ovation on the Radio City album comes across as so genuine.

 

That is so awesome. I always wanted to meet Ronnie. Dave Meniketti told me a few wonderful stories about that man. He had a heart of gold and thought Dave Meniketti was one of the greatest guitar players on the planet. Ronnie was right.

 

It's funny how you have met all these musicians and the big one that I met is one that you didn't.

 

I know dude! Crazy!! Just wasn't meant to be but I do have one Ronnie story for you. I've told it before.

But Wendy and I had second row for Alice Cooper and Heaven And Hell. Of course it was a sausage fest on the floor so Ronnie walks right up to Wendy and gives her the double devil horn salute and a smile. It was EPIC!

 

I saw that tour. Queensryche opened. Great show. I love Sabbath to death but I'm not so sure Cooper shouldn't have been the headliner for that.

 

Hahaha! Right! Ryche opened!! Great show and I must agree. Funny dude, I remember telling my ex that Alice Cooper stole the show that night. "Elected" was killer.

 

Iommi's guitar tone was massive on that tour. The heaviness just engulfed the air and that's what everyone was breathing in during the performance.

 

Agreed. Incredible thick and heavy tone.

 

When some of those riffs hit I nearly fell back in my seat. It was almost too much heaviness for mere humans to handle lol.

 

Oh I know dude! Totally!! I was deaf for a day!

 

I've heard bands that were overall heavier live but in terms of single player guitar tone Tony Iommi and Billy Gibbons are the heaviest I've heard in person.

[RUSHHEAD666]

I met Ronnie James Dio at a record store signing in 1998. He was playing a show here that night and the signing was that afternoon. You could buy a Dio CD in the store or bring one item of your own for him to sign. I only shook his hand and told him how much I love his music. He said "Thank you! That means so much to me" Then he asked me my name and signed the CD I brought and that was it. My older brother went with me but didn't bring anything to sign. He just wanted to meet the man and shake his hand. Dio seemed a bit surprised that he didn't have anything for him but was still appreciative of the fact he waited in line just to shake hands with him.

 

Dio was a very nice person and was genuinely interested in talking to the fans. While waiting in line, I noticed he treated everyone like he was meeting an old friend he hadn't seen in a while. Even though most of the people were no doubt complete strangers to him.

 

It was obvious Ronnie understood how important the fans were. His reaction to the ovation on the Radio City album comes across as so genuine.

 

That is so awesome. I always wanted to meet Ronnie. Dave Meniketti told me a few wonderful stories about that man. He had a heart of gold and thought Dave Meniketti was one of the greatest guitar players on the planet. Ronnie was right.

 

It's funny how you have met all these musicians and the big one that I met is one that you didn't.

 

I know dude! Crazy!! Just wasn't meant to be but I do have one Ronnie story for you. I've told it before.

But Wendy and I had second row for Alice Cooper and Heaven And Hell. Of course it was a sausage fest on the floor so Ronnie walks right up to Wendy and gives her the double devil horn salute and a smile. It was EPIC!

 

I saw that tour. Queensryche opened. Great show. I love Sabbath to death but I'm not so sure Cooper shouldn't have been the headliner for that.

 

Hahaha! Right! Ryche opened!! Great show and I must agree. Funny dude, I remember telling my ex that Alice Cooper stole the show that night. "Elected" was killer.

 

Iommi's guitar tone was massive on that tour. The heaviness just engulfed the air and that's what everyone was breathing in during the performance.

 

Agreed. Incredible thick and heavy tone.

 

When some of those riffs hit I nearly fell back in my seat. It was almost too much heaviness for mere humans to handle lol.

 

Oh I know dude! Totally!! I was deaf for a day!

 

I've heard bands that were overall heavier live but in terms of single player guitar tone Tony Iommi and Billy Gibbons are the heaviest I've heard in person.

 

Yes! I saw ZZ TOP last summer opening up for Skynyrd. Billy is also amazing!!! "Beer Drinkers And Hellraisers" is my favorite song by them. So happy they played it. Kicks ass.