Ronnie James Dio, a legend, left us way too early. I report on his Stand Up and Shout Cancer Fund annually. He touched so many fellow artists and fans as the frontman for some of the most iconic bands. My only connection to him is that he grew up in my hometown area. He was a little older than me, so I didn’t know any of the local bands he was in, but I met people who knew him. I’ve even driven down the street named after him in my hometown.  

Every year, the Stand Up and Shout Cancer Fund holds a Rock for Ronnie concert in Griffin Park next to the Autry Museum of the American West in Los Angeles, California. This year, the event will be on May 31, 2026, featuring Lita Ford with her tribute band Led Zepagain. Southern Rock band Jason Charles Miller, British Hard Rock band Legs Diamond, and AC/DC female tribute band Whole Lotta Rosies with LA-based up-and-comers Saints of Sinners. Also, debuting the new lineup, Dio Disciples will make an appearance, now comprised of Oni Logan and Robin McAuley on vocals, Rowan Robertson on guitar, Simon Wright on drums, Scott Warren on keyboards, and Bjorn Englen on bass. Plans will be announced soon for a Dio Disciples tour later this year.   

The whole event will be hosted by Eddie Trunk from SiriusXM’s 103 Faction Talk channel and closing out the night will be Eddie Trunk’s All Star Band which will include many legends of heavy metal plus silent and live auctions, beverage tents, food trucks, and activities geared to the entire family will be part of the day. The silent auction, filled with many exciting items, will be open for bidding throughout the afternoon, while live auctions, featuring one-of-a-kind rock collectibles, will be held from the stage between artist performances. The Garden of Hope returns, as well as assorted vendor booths selling unusual crafts and other items, and a varied selection of merchandise.   

All this to help the Ronnie James Dio Stand Up and Shout Fund, which helps thousands each year with cancer research and supports cancer victims and their families. If you would like to know more about this event and how you can support this organization, check out these links. 

https://diocancerfund.org

https://www.facebook.com/RJDSUASCF

https://www.instagram.com/diocancerfund

Artwork Murray Artwork by Marc Sasso