Your Guide to Live Music in Upstate New York

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Ronnie James Dio

One of the greatest heavy metal vocalists in history. Fronted Rainbow, Black Sabbath, and Dio. Popularized the "devil horns" hand gesture in metal. Formed his first bands as a teenager in Cortland.
Upstate Connection

Raised in Cortland, NY from childhood. Formed his first bands as a teenager in the Cortland/Syracuse area. The city honored him with "Dio Way."

Sqwerve performing at Lark Hall

Key Achievements

Metal Hall of Fame (2017, inaugural class)
Fronted Rainbow, Black Sabbath, Dio
Popularized "devil horns" gesture
Cortland honored with "Dio Way"
Hall of Fame

Quick Facts

CategoryArtists & Bands
Upstate ConnectionCortland
Years1942 – 2010
Active1957-2010
GenreMetal, Rock