Jimmy Bain, Bass Guitarist For Dio And Rainbow, Dies At 68

Bass guitarist Jimmy Bain, who performed with rock bands Dio and Rainbow, died at the age of 68 on Monday.

Dio And Rainbow Bassist Jimmy Bain Dies

Born James Stewart Bain in 1947, Bain first started to play with the band Harlot in early 1974. He was then asked to join guitarist Ritchie Blackmore and his band, Rainbow, after Blackmore watched Bain perform in the UK. He was then kicked out of the band in 1977 after recording one album and going on tour with Rainbow. Bain then joined ex-Thin Lizzy guitarist Brian Robertson to form Wild Horses in 1978, when it would only disband in 1981. Bain helped Thin Lizzy frontman Phil Lynott on his solo albums in the early 1980’s, performing bass on the recordings. This led to Bain joining Ronnie James Dio and his band, Dio.

While with Dio, Bain was part of the rock outfit that recorded some of the most iconic metal songs to ever be heard, specifically “Holy Diver” and “Rainbow in the Dark.” While in Dio, he also founded Hear ‘n Aid, a foundation that helped tackle world hunger.

Throughout the years leading up to his death, Bain continued to perform with other groups such as 3 Legged Dogg, the Hollywood All Starz and Last in Line. He was currently in Last In Line performing with ex-Def Leppard and Poison guitarist Richie Kotzen.

Megadeth frontman Dave Mustaine paid tribute to the late bassist with a picture and heartfelt message, saying, “Jimmy Bain has passed away. I’m saddened by the loss of my friend. David [Ellefson, Megadeth bassist] & I were very close with Jimmy. Godspeed!”

Jimmy Bain has passed away. I’m saddened by the loss of my friend. David & I were very close with Jimmy. Godspeed! pic.twitter.com/dDO9M7nvcg

— Dave Mustaine (@DaveMustaine) January 24, 2016