On a recent episode of Trunk Nation, hosted by Eddie Trunk on SiriusXM’s Faction Talk, legendary drummer Vinny Appice shared a surprising and heartfelt piece of insight into the relationship between two of metal’s most iconic frontmen: Ozzy Osbourne and Ronnie James Dio. Despite long-standing rumors of animosity between the two singers, Appice revealed that Ozzy frequently spoke positively about Dio in private conversations.
“Ozzy would always tell me how he loved Ronnie,” Appice said. “Everybody, you know, created this thing that they hate each other, but Ozzy used to talk about it all the time.” He added that Ozzy would also compliment his brother, drummer Carmine Appice, saying things like, “I really like your brother.” According to Vinny, Ozzy was consistent in his praise – even repeating the same sentiments the next day.
Eddie Trunk expressed surprise, noting that the narrative over the years has often portrayed tension between the two iconic vocalists, especially given their shared history in Black Sabbath. “That’s interesting about Ronnie because you’re right, it was so presented that there was a thing there,” Trunk said, referring to the often-reported rivalry that surfaced after Dio replaced Ozzy in Black Sabbath in 1979.
Vinny clarified that much of the drama was likely exaggerated. “He used to, you know, sit down and tell me about Ronnie too. You know, he really liked Ronnie and this and that,” he said. “And there’s some pictures on the internet where they’re hanging out, actually a festival it looks like, and there’s a picture of Ronnie and Ozzy and they were just hanging out.”
The candid conversation helped put a more human perspective on a long-perpetuated myth. “Things get blown up on the internet and you don’t know the truth really, what’s going on,” Appice noted.
With the recent passing of Ozzy Osbourne still fresh in the minds of fans around the world, these reflections add a deeply personal and surprising chapter to the metal legend’s legacy. While the public narrative may have suggested friction, behind the scenes, it appears there was mutual respect — and even admiration — between two of heavy metal’s most beloved voices.
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