Wendy Dio, widow and manager of the late Ronnie James Dio, announced at the Metal Hall Of Fame event in West Hollywood that the iconic Hear ‘N Aid charity album will see a reissue in 2025. The original album was created to support famine relief efforts in the mid-1980s.
The Hear ‘N Aid project, initiated by Ronnie James Dio along with Jimmy Bain and Vivian Campbell, featured a collaborative single called “Stars” as well as live tracks such as “Hungry For Heaven.” It included contributions from numerous prominent rock and metal artists and bands including Judas Priest, Mötley Crüe, and Twisted Sister.
The album was recorded in 1985 but faced delays due to contractual issues with various record labels, leading to its eventual release on January 1, 1986. The reissue aims to honor the original effort while potentially introducing the project to a new generation of fans.
In related news, Wendy Dio recently appeared on Billy Corgan’s podcast “The Magnificent Others,” where she reflected on Ronnie James Dio’s legacy and his impact on the metal community, sharing insights into his career and enduring influence.