Joey Belladonna Launches Dio Tribute Tour in Florida: A Rock Celebration!

Joey Belladonna Launches Dio Tribute Tour in Florida: A Rock Celebration!

On August 14, 2025, ANTHRAX frontman Joey Belladonna kicked off a highly anticipated four-date tour in Florida, celebrating the legendary Ronnie James Dio. The opening show took place at Capt Hirams in Sebastian, where fans gathered to pay homage to one of rock’s most iconic voices. The tribute band, featuring Mike Rivera on guitar, Rob Stokes on bass, and Jim McCourt on drums, performed a thrilling set that included classics from Dio, BLACK SABBATH, and RAINBOW. Concertgoers were treated to an unforgettable evening, with fan-filmed video footage from the Sebastian concert already creating a buzz online. Blabbermouth reports that the tour showcases Belladonna’s deep-seated admiration for Dio, a true inspiration in his career.

Reflecting on his relationship with Dio, Belladonna reminisced about their personal encounters and the legendary singer’s enchanting personality. He recalled Dio’s unique ability to blend humor with sincerity, traits that resonated with fans and fellow musicians alike. For Belladonna, Dio was more than just a singer; he represented a guiding light in the rock world. “He was a funny guy but also very sincere,” Belladonna noted, highlighting their shared moments which added depth to the tribute being paid through this tour.

A Melodic Tribute

As one of the pivotal figures in heavy metal, Ronnie James Dio has left an indelible mark on the genre. Joey Belladonna, who was a crucial part of ANTHRAX’s classic lineup from 1984 to 1992 and returned officially in 2010, carries forward this legacy not just through his music but also through his passion for honoring those who came before him. The memories of recording ANTHRAX’s cover of BLACK SABBATH’s „Neon Knights“ for the tribute album „This Is Your Life“ demonstrate that deep respect. Belladonna shared that the recording was a seamless process, requiring only a few takes, reflecting the strong camaraderie among the band members. His captivating voice has graced over ten albums, achieving impressive sales of about eight million copies worldwide.

Belladonna’s current tour serves as a reminder of the lasting influence Dio has had on generations of rock musicians. „Dio was an incredible character,” he said, encapsulating the admiration many have for the powerhouse vocalist. Music lovers across Florida can look forward to experiencing this nostalgic journey as the tribute continues through the remaining tour dates.

More Than Music

As we delve deeper into the world of entertainment, let’s pivot briefly to another context that intertwines stories of perseverance: the sitcom „Joey,“ a spin-off of the beloved „Friends.“ Though quite different from what Belladonna offers on stage, it’s intriguing to note that Matt LeBlanc’s character, Joey Tribbiani, also embarked on his own journey towards success in Hollywood. Debuting in 2004, „Joey“ garnered immediate attention yet struggled to maintain its viewership. Despite its premature end in 2006, the show was recognized for its comedic charm and received the People’s Choice Award for Favorite New Television Comedy. Wikipedia details how this sitcom tapped into the same spirit of ambition that drives both musicians and actors alike.

While Belladonna celebrates the memories of Dio through music, „Joey“ offered audiences a comedic escape filled with dreams and friendships. Both narratives remind us of the challenges faced in creative pursuits, whether on stage or in front of a camera. What’s evident is that the stories unfold in diverse ways, resonating with audiences in their own unique fashion.

As the tour continues, fans of heavy metal and rock are invited to revel in the sounds that shaped their youth, faithfully brought to life by Belladonna and his band. Celebrating the legacy of Ronnie James Dio, this tribute is not just a concert; it’s a shared experience of reverence and nostalgia.