By Gayl Murphy

HOLLYWOOD,CA (Hollywood Today) 5/18/10 — I knew Ronnie James Dio from almost day one when I started at ABC News. I think I interviewed him more times than any other artist – with the exception of maybe Morgan Freeman or Sandra Bullock. Over the years he personally invited me cover his “Hear ‘N’ Aid” project for ABC News and KLOS and asked if I would create and voice the b-side of the record called “The 5 Minute News”. Ronnie included me on the “Rock Relief for Africa” project and I went on tour to Japan with Dio, Quiet Riot and James Brown for his “Japan Aid” tour benefiting the International Relief Fund. Ronnie was a really talented, smart, interesting, nice and big-hearted guy that I always loved talking to…about anything and I’m proud to say he was my friend.

Publishers note: Gayl Murphy is Senior Editor of Hollywood Today and has worked with us on all our previous publications for 20 years. She knows everyone, but apparently thought of Ronnie James Dio in higher regard than most anyone in the business. He will be sorely missed.