Rainbow, the influential British rock band formed by guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, has featured a remarkable roster of vocalists throughout its history, each contributing a unique voice to the band's evolving sound. While many have graced the microphone, Ronnie James Dio is widely recognized as the original and iconic voice, and Ronnie Romero served as the lead vocalist for the band's longest-serving recent lineup.
Rainbow's lineup has seen several changes over the decades, a common trait for bands led by strong musical visionaries like Ritchie Blackmore. This fluidity has brought diverse vocal talents to the forefront, shaping the band's various musical eras from hard rock and heavy metal to a more commercial AOR sound.
Prominent Lead Vocalists of Rainbow
The following vocalists have held the esteemed position of lead singer for Rainbow:
Ronnie James Dio (1975–1979)
The original and arguably most legendary vocalist, Ronnie James Dio defined Rainbow's early, epic hard rock and fantasy-laden heavy metal sound. His powerful, operatic voice became synonymous with classic albums such as Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow (1975), Rising (1976), and Long Live Rock 'n' Roll (1978). Dio's departure marked the end of an iconic era for the band.
Graham Bonnet (1979–1980)
Following Dio's exit, Graham Bonnet brought a more blues-rock and commercial sensibility to Rainbow. His powerful, raw voice featured on the album Down to Earth (1979), which included hit singles like "Since You Been Gone" and "All Night Long," pushing Rainbow towards mainstream success.
Joe Lynn Turner (1980–1984, 1990)
Joe Lynn Turner's tenure saw Rainbow embrace a more melodic, AOR-friendly rock style, particularly successful in the American market. His smooth yet powerful vocals graced albums like Difficult to Cure (1981), Straight Between the Eyes (1982), and Bent Out of Shape (1983). Turner also participated in a brief reunion in 1990.
Doogie White (1994–1997)
When Ritchie Blackmore reformed Rainbow in the mid-1990s, Doogie White took on lead vocal duties. His voice contributed to the album Stranger in Us All (1995), which saw the band return to a more traditional hard rock sound reminiscent of their earlier work.
Ronnie Romero (2015–2023)
In its most recent iteration, particularly the longest-serving lineup from 2015 to 2023, the lead vocals were handled by Ronnie Romero. Romero's powerful and versatile voice carried the band's live performances during this period. This lineup, led by Ritchie Blackmore on guitar, also featured Bob Nouveau on bass, David Keith on drums, and Jens Johansson on keyboards. Romero announced his departure from the band in 2023.
Backing Vocals
While the spotlight often falls on the lead vocalists, backing vocals play a crucial role in a band's sound. During the 2015-2023 lineup, Candice Night, Ritchie Blackmore's wife and musical partner in Blackmore's Night, provided backing vocals, adding depth and harmony to the band's sound.
Overview of Lead Vocalists
Vocalist | Tenure (Lead Vocals) | Notable Albums / Era |
---|---|---|
Ronnie James Dio | 1975–1979 | Rising, Long Live Rock 'n' Roll (Classic Heavy Metal) |
Graham Bonnet | 1979–1980 | Down to Earth (Commercial Hard Rock) |
Joe Lynn Turner | 1980–1984 | Difficult to Cure, Bent Out of Shape (AOR/Melodic Rock) |
Doogie White | 1994–1997 | Stranger in Us All (Hard Rock Revival) |
Ronnie Romero | 2015–2023 | Live Performances (Modern Era, Classic Rock Style) |
Rainbow's legacy is not just in its groundbreaking music but also in the array of vocal talents that have contributed to its diverse and influential discography over the decades.