The Time Anthrax Covered Neon Knights As A Tribute To Ronnie James Dio

March 20, 2025

The sun was setting over New York City, casting a warm orange glow over the skyline. Inside a small but buzzing club, the air was thick with anticipation. It was the night that Anthrax, one of the pioneering thrash metal bands, had chosen to pay tribute to a legend: Ronnie James Dio. The legendary singer had passed away just a few years before, and his powerful voice and incredible songs still echoed in the hearts of fans around the world. For Anthrax, this tribute was more than just a performance; it was a heartfelt homage to a man who had inspired them in so many ways.

As the band members gathered backstage, they reminisced about the first time they had heard Dio’s music. Scott Ian, the guitarist, recalled how they had played Dio’s songs in their garage as teenagers, dreaming of making it big themselves. They knew they couldn’t simply cover one of Dio’s songs; it had to be something powerful, something that would honor his legacy. And that’s when they decided to cover “Neon Knights,” a track full of energy and spirit that truly captured Dio’s magic. The song’s driving beat was perfect for Anthrax, and they were determined to make it their own while still paying respect to the original.

As the band took the stage, the crowd roared in excitement. You could feel the energy in the room, an electric buzz that connected everyone present. Anthrax launched into “Neon Knights,” and the sound was explosive. Joey Belladonna’s voice soared through the venue, powerful and raw, while the guitars screamed in perfect harmony. Fans sang along with every lyric, their voices blending together to create a beautiful chorus that echoed Dio’s famous anthems. In that moment, they weren’t just playing a song; they were honoring a spirit, a legacy that had influenced countless musicians and fans alike.

But the tribute wasn’t without its challenges. As the band played, it became evident that the emotional weight of the moment was intense. They wanted to do justice to Dio—a man who had shown them that music could bridge gaps and bring people together. In the middle of the song, Scott felt a wave of emotion wash over him. He remembered the interviews, Dio’s kindness to young artists, and how he always encouraged everyone to follow their dreams. It was a reminder that music could heal and inspire, and at that very moment, the band felt a connection to Dio that was almost palpable.

When the last note faded and the cheers reverberated through the club, Anthrax knew they had done something special. They had created a moment where fans and musicians came together, sharing in their love for Dio and his music. This tribute not only honored a legend but also solidified Anthrax’s place as an influential force in the metal community. It reminded them that even in times of loss, creativity and passion could shine through, lighting the way for others to find their voice.

As the night drew to a close, the band reflected on the impact of their performance. It wasn’t just about the music; it was about the stories, the memories, and the connections they had forged through their love for Dio. Anthrax came to realize that in celebrating the life of a friend and idol, they had found a deeper purpose in their own music. They left the stage that night with their heads held high, ready to keep pushing the boundaries, knowing that resilience and passion could turn even the darkest moments into something beautiful.