01/25/2016 13:51

Dio

Former Dio bass player Jimmy Bain dead at 68

According to a number of industry sources, including ex-Dio drummer Simon Wright, former Rainbow and Dio bassist Jimmy Bain has passed away at the age of 68. The same information was posted on Instagram by Diana Deville, a longtime employee of Wendy Dio's Niji Management.

James Stewart "Jimmy" Bain was born on December 19th, 1947 in Scotland. He also played in Rainbow, WWIII, Sledge Leather and with Philip Lynott. Since 2013, Bain has been a member of Last In Line, also featuring his fellow ex-DIO bandmates Vivian Campbell and Vinny Appice along with singer Andrew Freeman.

Last In Line drummer Vivian Campbell posted a message:

"It's with the heaviest of hearts that I must confirm the news of the passing of our dear friend and Last In Line band-mate, Jimmy Bain. 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 had finally won that battle and he was bright and lucid and motivated throughout the writing and recording of the new record. He leaves behind him a rich legacy of work from Rainbow, through Wild Horses, Dio, and finally, Last In Line. Jimmy was immensely proud of our new album and his input to it was immeasurable.

"He was a very kind and gentle and generous soul and our lives were greatly enriched for having known him. We will continue to celebrate his life through his music.

On behalf of Vinny and Andrew, our thoughts and condolences are with his family at this most difficult of times.

Rest in peace, dear friend."

(source: Last In Line)