Former Dio and Rainbow Bassist Jimmy Bain Dead at 68

More sad news this weekend, as former Rainbow and Dio bassist Jimmy Bain passed away. He was 68.

At the time of his death, Bain was set to perform on Def Leppard’s ‘Hysteria In The Sun’ cruise with the Dio tribute band Last In Line. No cause of death has been confirmed.

Along with Vivian Campbell, Vinny Appice, and Ronnie James Dio, Bain was one of the founding members of Dio. He also co-wrote solo albums by Thin Lizzy frontman Phil Lynott, and played bass on the Scorpions’ Love At First Sting. He was known for being a rock and roll hedonist, and was arrested in 2012 for driving while intoxicated and possession of illegal drugs.

Campbell has since made the following statement:

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’d finally won that battle. He was bright, lucid and motivated throughout the writing and recording of the new record.

He leaves behind a rich legacy of work from Rainbow, Wild Horses, Dio, and finally Last In Line.”

Our hearts and deepest condolences go out to Bain’s family, friends, and bandmates. We’ll let you know if anything else develops surrounding this story.

[via Metal Hammer]