Holy Diver is the debut album of heavy metal band Dio. Released on May 25, 1983, it has been hailed by critics as Dio's best work and a classic staple in the heavy metal genre This original cover offended churches because it looks as if the monster on the album was killing a Roman Catholic priest. This album includes the original custom inner sleeve with many photos of Ronnie James Dio and his band
The album cover for DIO's "Holy Diver" depicts a devil-like creature, with horns , diving into a pool of water, where a person is shown drowning. This image was seen as offensive and controversial by some people, particularly in the Netherlands, where the album was released with an additional sticker warning about the graphic content.
The depiction of a demonic creature and the imagery of someone drowning could be seen as promoting violence or glorifying evil. In addition, some people found the cover to be disturbing or frightening. This led to some retailers refusing to stock the album or displaying it in a way that obscured the cover.
However, others argued that the cover was simply a representation of the album's themes and that it was not meant to be taken literally. Many heavy metal and rock bands of the time used similar imagery in their album art, and some fans appreciated the provocative and edgy nature of the cover.
Overall, the album cover of DIO's "Holy Diver" was controversial due to its use of violent and demonic imagery, which some found offensive or disturbing.
This album "DIO Holy Diver" includes the original custom inner sleeve with a collage of the DIO band-members,
The album: "DIO Holy Diver" was produced by: Ronnie James Dio
Ronald James Padavona, better known as Ronnie James Dio, was born on 10 July 1942, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. He would later become one of the most influential and iconic figures in the history of heavy metal music. Dio's powerful vocals, distinct stage presence, and songwriting abilities earned him the title of the "King of Heavy Metal".
Dio's musical journey began in 1957 when he formed his first band called The Vegas Kings, where he showcased his talents as a lead singer. Over the next few years, he went on to perform with various bands, including Ronnie and the Rumblers and Ronnie and the Redcaps. These early experiences helped him develop his vocal skills and stage persona.
In 1961, Dio joined Ronnie and the Prophets, a band that gained some local popularity. During this time, he experimented with different musical styles and expanded his repertoire. In 1967, the band changed its name to The Electric Elves and later simply The Elves. As The Elves, they played a blend of rock and blues, laying the groundwork for Dio's future ventures.
In 1972, the band transformed once again and became known as ELF. Their music continued to evolve, incorporating elements of hard rock and progressive rock. ELF released three studio albums, showcasing Dio's exceptional vocal range and his ability to captivate audiences.
Dio's big breakthrough came in 1975 when he joined the British rock band Rainbow, founded by former Deep Purple guitarist Ritchie Blackmore. With Dio as the lead vocalist, Rainbow gained international recognition and released several critically acclaimed albums. Dio's powerful vocals and poetic lyrics contributed to the band's success, and he quickly became a respected figure in the rock music scene.
In 1979, Dio made yet another significant move in his career by joining Black Sabbath, replacing the band's original vocalist, Ozzy Osbourne. With Dio, Black Sabbath released the classic albums "Heaven and Hell" (1980) and "Mob Rules" (1981), which revitalized the band's sound and solidified their place in heavy metal history.
In 1982, Dio formed his own band, simply named DIO, and embarked on a highly successful solo career. The band released numerous albums, including the critically acclaimed "Holy Diver" (1983) and "The Last in Line" (1984), which showcased Dio's songwriting abilities and his powerful vocals.
Dio reunited with Black Sabbath for a brief period from 1991 to 1992 and again from 2006 to 2010 under the name Heaven & Hell. The band released the album "The Devil You Know" (2009) before Dio's untimely death in 2010.
Throughout his career, Ronnie James Dio influenced countless musicians and fans with his distinctive voice, theatrical stage presence, and unwavering passion for heavy metal. His lyrics often explored fantasy and mythology, adding depth and a unique dimension to his music.
Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Angelo Arcuri
This album was recorded at: Sound City Studios , Van Nuys, California , 1983
Mastering by George Marino (1947-2012) - Mastering Engineer
George Marino: legendary mastering engineer behind iconic albums by Metallica, AC/DC, and more. Explore his life and groundbreaking career in music.
Gene Kirkland - Photography
Jerry McManus - Art Direction
Mark (Weiss Guy) Weiss - Photography
Mark Weiss (Nickname: Weissguy) is an acclaimed American rock and roll photographer who has captured the essence and energy of some of the most iconic moments in music history. With his keen eye for detail and ability to connect with his subjects, Weiss has become synonymous with the visual documentation of the rock and roll scene.
Born and raised in New Jersey, Mark Weiss discovered his passion for photography at a young age. Inspired by the vibrant music culture of the 1970s, he set out to combine his love for music with his growing interest in photography. Armed with his camera, Weiss began attending concerts and local gigs, capturing the electrifying performances of emerging and established rock acts.
In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Weiss's career gained momentum as he became the go-to photographer for many rock bands. He developed a reputation for his ability to capture the raw energy and charisma of the musicians, as well as the electric atmosphere of live performances. His photographs not only showcased the artists in their element but also transported viewers into the heart of the rock and roll experience.
One of Weiss's most iconic collaborations was with the legendary rock band Bon Jovi. From the early days of their career, Weiss developed a close relationship with the band members and their management, which allowed him unprecedented access to document their rise to superstardom. His photographs became an integral part of Bon Jovi's image, capturing the band's infectious energy and forging a visual legacy that would endure for decades.
Mark Weiss's work extended beyond Bon Jovi, as he photographed and developed relationships with numerous other rock icons. He captured the larger-than-life personas of artists such as Van Halen, Guns N' Roses, Aerosmith, and Motley Crue, among many others. Weiss's photographs adorned album covers, magazines, and concert posters, encapsulating the essence of the rock and roll lifestyle and contributing to the visual iconography of the era.
Throughout his career, Weiss has exhibited a remarkable ability to connect with his subjects and gain their trust, allowing him to capture intimate and candid moments both on and off the stage. His photographs convey not only the spectacle of rock performances but also the humanity and vulnerability of the artists behind the scenes, creating a comprehensive visual narrative of their lives and careers.
In addition to his work as a live music photographer, Mark Weiss has also ventured into other areas of the industry. He has directed music videos, designed album covers, and collaborated with various media outlets and galleries to showcase his extensive collection of rock and roll photography. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the music industry and continue to inspire new generations of photographers and music lovers.
Mark Weiss's body of work represents more than just photographs. It is a testament to the power of visual storytelling and the profound impact that music can have on people's lives. Through his lens, he has immortalized the legends of rock and roll, providing fans with a glimpse into the exhilarating world of music and preserving the spirit of an era that will forever hold a special place in the hearts of fans around the world.
Randy Barrett - Artwork
Rick Brackett - Photography
Sharon Weisz - Photography
Simon Levy - Art Direction
Gene Hunter - Original Art Rendering
Ray Leonard - Sound Engineer
Wendy Dio - Cover Concept
Heavy Metal, Hard Rock
Mercury 811 021-1
Original Custom Inner Sleeve
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
1983 Netherlands
Ronald James Padavona, better known as Ronnie James Dio, was born on 10 July 1942, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. He would later become one of the most influential and iconic figures in the history of heavy metal music. Dio's powerful vocals, distinct stage presence, and songwriting abilities earned him the title of the "King of Heavy Metal".
Dio's musical journey began in 1957 when he formed his first band called The Vegas Kings, where he showcased his talents as a lead singer. Over the next few years, he went on to perform with various bands, including Ronnie and the Rumblers and Ronnie and the Redcaps. These early experiences helped him develop his vocal skills and stage persona.
In 1961, Dio joined Ronnie and the Prophets, a band that gained some local popularity. During this time, he experimented with different musical styles and expanded his repertoire. In 1967, the band changed its name to The Electric Elves and later simply The Elves. As The Elves, they played a blend of rock and blues, laying the groundwork for Dio's future ventures.
In 1972, the band transformed once again and became known as ELF. Their music continued to evolve, incorporating elements of hard rock and progressive rock. ELF released three studio albums, showcasing Dio's exceptional vocal range and his ability to captivate audiences.
Dio's big breakthrough came in 1975 when he joined the British rock band Rainbow, founded by former Deep Purple guitarist Ritchie Blackmore. With Dio as the lead vocalist, Rainbow gained international recognition and released several critically acclaimed albums. Dio's powerful vocals and poetic lyrics contributed to the band's success, and he quickly became a respected figure in the rock music scene.
In 1979, Dio made yet another significant move in his career by joining Black Sabbath, replacing the band's original vocalist, Ozzy Osbourne. With Dio, Black Sabbath released the classic albums "Heaven and Hell" (1980) and "Mob Rules" (1981), which revitalized the band's sound and solidified their place in heavy metal history.
In 1982, Dio formed his own band, simply named DIO, and embarked on a highly successful solo career. The band released numerous albums, including the critically acclaimed "Holy Diver" (1983) and "The Last in Line" (1984), which showcased Dio's songwriting abilities and his powerful vocals.
Dio reunited with Black Sabbath for a brief period from 1991 to 1992 and again from 2006 to 2010 under the name Heaven & Hell. The band released the album "The Devil You Know" (2009) before Dio's untimely death in 2010.
Throughout his career, Ronnie James Dio influenced countless musicians and fans with his distinctive voice, theatrical stage presence, and unwavering passion for heavy metal. His lyrics often explored fantasy and mythology, adding depth and a unique dimension to his music.
Jimmy Bain (1947-2016) was a renowned musician, best known for his exceptional skills as a bassist and keyboardist. Born on 19 December 1947, in Newtonmore, Scotland, James Stewart Bain showed a profound interest in music from an early age. His fascination with rhythm and melody led him on a lifelong journey that would leave a lasting impact on the rock and metal music scenes.
Bain's musical journey began when he picked up the guitar at the age of 7, inspired by his father's love for music. However, it was the bass guitar that truly captivated him as a teenager. By the time he was 15, he had mastered the instrument, demonstrating an innate talent that set him apart from his peers. His passion for music also extended to keyboards, and he quickly became proficient in playing both instruments.
In the late 1960s, Jimmy Bain's musical career took a significant turn when he joined the progressive rock band Harlot, which later changed its name to Rainbow. The band was formed by guitar virtuoso Ritchie Blackmore, formerly of Deep Purple. With Bain's powerful bass lines and complementary keyboard work, Rainbow gained prominence in the rock music landscape. He contributed significantly to their early albums, such as "Rising" and "Long Live Rock 'n' Roll".
In 1983, Jimmy Bain's career reached new heights when he joined forces with legendary heavy metal vocalist Ronnie James Dio to form the band Dio. Alongside drummer Vinny Appice and guitarist Vivian Campbell, the band released their debut album, "Holy Diver", which was met with critical acclaim. Bain's thunderous bass playing became a defining element of Dio's sound, and he continued to be an integral part of the band for several years, playing on subsequent albums like "The Last in Line" and "Sacred Heart".
After parting ways with Dio in the late 1980s, Jimmy Bain remained active in the music industry, collaborating with various artists and bands. He worked with acts such as Gary Moore, WWIII, and Wild Horses, displaying his versatility as a musician and his ability to adapt to different musical styles.
In the 2000s, Bain reunited with Ronnie James Dio, joining the band Heaven & Hell, which also featured Tony Iommi and Vinny Appice, former members of Black Sabbath. Together, they released the highly acclaimed album "The Devil You Know" in 2009, reaffirming their place in the world of heavy metal history.
Tragically, on 23 January 2016, the music world lost Jimmy Bain at the age of 68. He passed away while aboard Def Leppard's Hysteria on the High Seas Cruise, just a few days before the event was set to conclude. The cause of death was reported as lung cancer.
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.
Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone )
DIO was a heavy metal band that emerged in the 1980s as a result of Ronnie James Dio, who had previously been a member of the legendary bands Rainbow and Black Sabbath. Dio's eponymous band quickly gained a reputation for their distinctive sound and powerful live performances, becoming one of the most iconic bands of the era.
The band's signature sound was characterized by powerful, driving guitar riffs, thundering bass lines, and Dio's distinctive vocals. Dio's soaring, operatic voice was a major part of the band's appeal, and helped to set them apart from other heavy metal bands of the time.
The band's debut album, Holy Diver, was released in 1983 and was an instant classic. The album featured some of the band's most well-known songs, including the title track "Holy Diver," as well as "Rainbow in the Dark" and "Stand Up and Shout." The album was a critical and commercial success, and helped to establish Dio as one of the leading figures in heavy metal.
Over the course of their career, Dio released ten studio albums, each showcasing the band's distinctive sound and musicianship. Some of the band's other notable albums include The Last in Line (1984), Sacred Heart (1985), and Dream Evil (1987).
Despite numerous lineup changes over the years, Dio remained a consistent force in heavy metal music throughout the 1980s and into the 1990s. The band's live performances were particularly legendary, and Dio's stage presence and charismatic persona helped to make him a beloved figure among heavy metal fans.
Tragically, Dio passed away in 2010, bringing an end to his remarkable career. However, his legacy lives on through the music of DIO, which continues to be celebrated by fans around the world.