- From Sabbath to Dio: Vinnie Appice's Iconic '80s Run
Vinnie Appice's thunderous drumming powered heavy metal throughout the 1980s. He joined Black Sabbath in 1980, revitalizing the band with his energy on albums like "Mob Rules" and "Live Evil". Appice then became a founding member of Dio, the iconic band fronted by Ronnie James Dio. His relentless rhythms drove anthems like "Holy Diver", solidifying Appice's place within heavy metal history.
Vinny Appice, born on 13 September 1957, is a renowned drummer whose powerful and precise playing style has left an indelible mark on the world of rock music. Hailing from an immensely talented musical family, Vinny's extraordinary skills behind the drum kit have earned him widespread acclaim, and he has become a respected figure in the music industry. As the younger brother of the legendary drummer Carmine Appice, Vinny's journey into the world of rock and roll was destined from an early age. Throughout his career, he has worked with some of the most influential bands and musicians, leaving an enduring legacy as one of the finest drummers of his generation.
Early Life and Musical Upbringing:
Vinny Appice was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, USA, to Italian immigrant parents. Growing up in a household immersed in music, Vinny and his older brother Carmine were introduced to the world of drums and percussion at an early age. Their father, who played the jazz trumpet, and their mother, who had a passion for singing, encouraged the musical pursuits of their sons.
At the age of nine, Vinny's fascination with the drums began, and he started taking lessons to refine his skills. Carmine, already a seasoned drummer and a role model for Vinny, played a pivotal role in his musical development, providing guidance and inspiration. The two brothers spent countless hours practicing together, honing their techniques and pushing each other to reach new heights.
Breakthrough with Black Sabbath:
In the late 1970s, Vinny Appice's career took a momentous turn when he got the opportunity of a lifetime – joining the iconic heavy metal band Black Sabbath. He replaced the band's original drummer, Bill Ward, and made his debut on their 1980 album "Heaven and Hell" . Vinny's thunderous drumming and precision timing perfectly complemented the band's new musical direction, which saw the arrival of Ronnie James Dio as the lead vocalist.
During his time with Black Sabbath, Vinny Appice made significant contributions to the albums "Mob Rules" (1981) and "Live Evil" (1982) , solidifying his reputation as a force to be reckoned with behind the drum kit. His drumming skills became synonymous with the raw power and energy that defined Black Sabbath's music.
Dio and Other Musical Ventures:
After his stint with Black Sabbath, Vinny Appice followed Ronnie James Dio when the vocalist left the band to form the band "Dio". Vinny became an integral part of the group, leaving his mark on classic albums like "Holy Diver" (1983) , "The Last in Line" (1984) , and "Sacred Heart" (1985) . The band's success and critical acclaim further elevated Vinny's status as a premier drummer in the rock and metal community.
Vinny's musical journey also included collaborations with other notable artists and bands. He worked with artists like Ozzy Osbourne, WWIII, and Rick Derringer, showcasing his versatility and adaptability as a drummer.
Return to Black Sabbath and Later Years:
In the early 1990s, Vinny Appice rejoined Black Sabbath for the "Dehumanizer" (1992) album and subsequent tours. Once again, his powerful drumming contributed to the band's resurgence and reminded the world of his exceptional talent.
As the years passed, Vinny continued to pursue various projects, working with bands like Heaven & Hell (the band featuring Black Sabbath members without the original name due to legal issues) and Kill Devil Hill. His musical legacy continued to grow, and he remained an influential figure in the rock and metal scene.