Agreed! To give up a chance to tour supporting the music you helped write, so you can be at home to take care of, and raise your child is what being a "real" man is all about IMHO. Similar to what a bassist friend of mine did. He had the opportunity to tour with BB King when he was younger, but chose to stay home to help raise his children. He did eventually tour with Albert King, and other famous blues musicians, but it was after his kids were grown.
I've never met Craig, but not only is he one of the best guitarists I've heard, he consistently seems like the coolest, most normal guy. A rare soul in entertainment.
@Burning Daylight Thank you for that! Very, very cool thing to say!! My girlfriend might laugh at the word "normal"!!! Ha ha but not ha ha!! I'm just a fan that got into the band!! For me.....it's all about the creativity and that dreams can come true! Most people won't even allow themselves to dream! And if I am a rare soul.....you certainly can only recognize it because you are too!! Thank you!!
*Ho DOES seem to be trying his best to be very fair. I think it's a big indicator about the speaker when they just paint others in a broad way as horrible or perfect. He Craig doesn't do that.* 🤘🏼
I like Craig and think he is an excellent guitarist. Even if what he is saying here is true about the original Dio band, I have a feeling that Vivian was never going to get what was promised to him. It is just how it goes. They would have scrapped Viv sooner or later for someone who could do the job and take less, rather than live up to a promise to give him a bigger slice of the pie. Once you start making more money, you don't want to give away more than the bare minimum. As with Ozzy, Ronnie may have intended for his original band to be a real band, but as with Ozzy, it didn't take long to scrap that in favor of being more of a solo act with hired hands. Eh, just my opinion.
I stopped listening to DiO after Vivian left. Vivian was not okay with getting screwed, Craig was content with getting screwed. Craig ha ha is such a brown tongue, that he talks exactly like Ronnie. Wow
@@notforyoutube - Craig was living in his car, typical LA story - he readily wanted to be a steady band employee & did not have the expectations of being a full partner to the bandleader who had been famous for any years. Yes, Dio ruined the band chemistry of Bain/Appice//Campbell and yes, many of us stopped listening or caring then. It was unwise and egocentric.
My respect for Craig as a guitarist has always been big but after hearing this portion of his interview my respect has grown even more, he sounds like a solid good man.
I agree. I've always appreciated his guitar playing/songwriting, but after hearing this interview, I'm even more impressed with him as a human being with character and integrity.
@RockbertoRocks Thank you my friend! But I'm thinking that only another good parent would say that! And I thank you for your other kind words! Means more than you could ever know!!
@@TCraigGoldyI appreciate the fact that he wrote about the type of parent you are first, as that is what is of the most importance, and really defines your character.
Wow, that story about his wife in Denmark and the baby was touching and showed how much integrity he has. He is also a great musician. I also liked how he gave insight into how publishing works in the music business.
@@billydeewilliams9104 it's super sad we haven't had a #1 rock n roll hit in 23 years. The only people I know in bands down here in Florida are Boomers or Gen X like me.
Craig sounds like a great guy. I think the real problem was that Ronnie just couldn’t stand up to Wendy, you have to remember how music biz works part of the pie was going to her right off the top. I really believe from what I’ve heard that Ronnie really intended to come through but was under a lot of pressure and stress and some fear that he wouldn’t get what he’d been supposed to get again. And as far as Vivian goes imagine writing one of the greatest guitar albums of the 80’s and not getting compensated for it. As a player that started in that era Vivian was and still is on of my greatest influences! I mean I love Randy, Eddie all the greats before and since but I probably actually played more in the style of Vivian and George Lynch, not as well but those are the guys I copy the most lol!
DING DING DING!!! I think we have a WINNER here! Wendy WAS the manager and wife of Ronnie, just like Sharon was to Ozzy. We all know what happened with Bob Daisley, Lee Kerslake and Jake E Lee. Can you imagine Wendy, in Ronnie's ear saying, " Well OZZY did this, and OZZY did that ". I think both Ozzy and RJD started out with good intentions and were steered away by their wives. But in the end, both bands put out some epic albums that I still enjoy, these many years later. Great interview as always, bringing insight of the bands and music business to us fans. 😎
@@juve3690 Yeah!... I still blame Ronnie even though I see where you're coming from. I could see Sharon getting away with it with Ozzy because let's face it, he's NOT the brightest and I believe she could manipulate him easily. But in this, I blame Ozzy too! Right is right! Ronnie on the other hand is a pretty disciplined and focused guy. You're telling me that he couldn't stand up to his wife concerning a verbal contract made with other band members? Nah, I don't buy it. They were both in on it.
@@gun_toting_lefty I agree. Maybe RJD said to Wendy, ok, twist my arm...I'll pay em more when we release the third album...Money and success can alter a person's character from what we've seen over the years with many bands. But like I've said before, I still enjoy listening to their music. In a way, knowing a lot of the inside stuff that FIB covers, shedding light on the different personalities, makes the music from back then even more intimate. And I'm digging it. Keep em coming I say!
I think people over casually through the word ‘genius’ around as a catch all phrase instead of being more specific and saying someone is smart or clever. Does anyone even know the the true definition of the word ‘genius’. 99% of musicians are NOT geniuses. Theyre barely above the intelligence level of an ape and being called a ‘genius’ because they regurgitate a few facts to folks that sit around smoking dope and watching dumb tv shows all day.
do not ask him for a guitar pick on that classic metal show... Craig is a good guitairst, a B leaguer, but every song people want to hear him play has Vivian on it asa songwriter essentially.
I was disappointed when Ronnie let Viv walk...though Criag did a stand up job with Dio, Viv was the original and brought the unique chemistry to that lineup at the time...what a shame
@@shreddinjoe no disrespect intended or implied. Viv got shafted by them both. Just like Ozzy and Sharon did to Jake E Lee. Just sickens me these stars are making millions while the musicians making the music don't get publishing or credit for the songs they worked so hard on. Viv was making $400 dollars a week working for RJD which is a disgrace. He is one of the greatest artists of our time and deserved better. Even the road crew got paid better! Have a great rest of your week.
@@stevengoodman3498 I couldn't agree more my friend...it is indeed sickening. Apparently during those times, the 80s, Jake and Viv were only a small batch that got 100% screwed...the tours for all 3 albums ,holy diver, last in line, sacred heart, were all very high grossing tours...and the band members only got a small salary...while (someone) else was raking in millions....I don't blame Viv for stepping up wanting his fair share...he was a key element in the creation of those records..with all due respect to Goldie, it like a slap upside the head watching Goldie play Vivs songs to us, the fans
It's a decent solo. Vivian is certainly no Randy Rhoads or Michael Schenker though. But let's be honest, it sounds like Vivian tried his best to do a Gary Moore impersonation. Which makes sense ( not an excuse ) because Vivian worshipped Gary.
I don't think the goofy fire breathing dragon was needed if it contributed at all to the division between these two extremely talented dudes. Dio laid down the best vocals in metal (debatable, sure), Vivian laid down some of the best solos in metal. Irreplaceable chemistry messed up by money. Sad!
Great interview and I always wondered what his thoughts were on the Viv split. I think he played it rather diplomatically. It's like Ozzy told Jake "I had to fuck you, Sabbath fucked me; when you get your own band you fuck them". It's crude but probably just the way it is when you have the name behind the band in essence be it Dio, Ozzy or DLR. Money changes people 🤷♂️
I love Craig. He is a stand up guy. And he'll tell it like it is, without shit talking anyone. He's been very kind and generous with his time and stories. And if you're reading this Craig, hope all is well, it's been a few since we've chatted, but I really hope to have more conversations with you soon!
@@TheBigMclargehuge Sorry.....but you're wrong! Even though I've never met Eric in person....through the comment section of some of these YT videos....much like with Facebook....you can actually become friends with someone you've never met before.....and I personally think of Eric as my friend!!
@@Dave_Wight_The_Rock_Oracle That's very true! Those first 3 Dio albums are insanely amazing! And I loved playing his solos live!! But also remember....they were under Ronnie's guidance! I hate to say it....but I haven't heard anything from Viv lately that even touches those songs and solos! Don't get me wrong.....Viv is Ferocious on guitar! And he is so much a part of why those albums are as good as they are.....but Jimmy and Vinny have always remained stellar before, during and after! I personally have nothing against Viv and have total respect for his playing on those 3 albums and live performances!! And he will always be THEE quintessential Dio guitarist!!
@@SonnyGTA Bro, on the contrary. If what you are saying is true and that stuff is really none of our business, he put the feelings of the kid before his own. Thats a stand up guy trying to be a good role model for the kid. So, what you ssaid really makes no sense.
I think Craig realized he had to sacrifice himself to be able to get the exposure of playing for such a huge idol, but in the end this confirms that Dio and Wendy were f*cking everyone up and Vivian was the only one to speak up, I mean he made 3 records with Dio, how much sh*t did he have to take? This is so painful to me as a fan because I love Ozzy and Dio's music to the core but to see that even Dio was getting into these dodgy management despicable business practices truly breaks my heart.
GREAT interview, many thanks. The biz side of things is why music deserves to die (and it has). Thieves stealing from thieves. As for Dio, it's complicated. But I side with Viv.....he was a kid who gave his all, and was denied his payoff. Same thing happened with many others in that mix of Dio, Sabbath and Ozzy. Those guitarists were simply wage slaves. I read where some in the Eagles did the same thing. Change a word in a song and get royalties. If you are going into music today....get a lawyer before you tune your guitar.
I side with Viv too. Craig makes valid points and explains the split deal perfectly but Viv`s guitar work is 50%+ of those 2 albums. It should have been 40% Dio and the 3 guys split the remaining 60%. Viv, 25% and Vinnie and John split 35%. It is, Dio`s band, so he deserves the biggest chunk. By the 2nd album Viv should have been 35% Dio, 35% Viv and 15% each for the other 2 guys.
Ronnie James Dio was the reason any of them were getting paychecks. Vivian got plenty of exposure and street cred by being in the band and that goes for something. Take Ronnie out of the band or off the tour and tell me it wouldn’t have a greater effect than removing Viv. Let’s be real here, talent or not Vivian Campbell was launched by this guy. I would never expect anybody in that band to expect equal billing or equal compensation.
@@chuckbush2757 I agree about Dio`s name recognition, he is at the top of the band food chain. However, 300 bucks per week is bullshit. They had a gold record right out of the box and soon after a head lining tour. Unlike most bands, that acquire tons of debt on the road for years and putting out records that flop before they break a record. Dio had a gold record and a tour. The band had minimum debt. He learned how to be a cut throat dirtbag from those bastards from England. All of them did it. They keep 90% of the money and giving the crumbs to the underlings all the while dangling the carrot of, dont worry, ya gonna get paid. This being said, Vivian could have, and should have walked when Dio and Wendy continued to dangle the carrot in front of his face as they went in to record the follow up to holy diver. He should have demanded atleast $5,000 in his hand before he started contributing in the studio. Want to treat me as a paid employee, you can pay me like a studio musician. But Dio played up the rah, rah, we are a band, we are one speech. All the while, he and Wendy were stashing the money away for themselves. 300 bucks per week during holy diver and I think on the last in line tour they got bumped up to 500. haha Back in 1985 a dishwasher was making 10 bucks an hour/400 per week. haha But a guitarist in a rock band that has two gold, soon to be platinum records and a headlining tour is making what a dishwasher slob makes? haha 10,000 seat gig, 10 bucks per ticket. 100,000 per night. whack off 50k for expenses and taxes. that leaves 50k and he is paying his members 500 per week? Dio and Wendy were bastards. I know Dio had everybody fooled with his, soft spoken, mellow and caring personality but he was a nasty, miserable little troll. Just like Eddie VH was. There is a video on YT of him being interviewed on his tour bus and Viv is brought up and you can see the real Dio without his mask. haha
@john smith What places in 1985 were paying dishwashers $10/hour? Minimum wage in 1985 was just over $3/hour. I wasn’t even making $10/hour in the 2000s, and I live in a state with pretty high minimum wage.
@@westonparker5940 Where were you living, Mississippi? I grew up in CT. The minimum wage in CT. in 1981 was $4 something. By 1984 President Reagan had finally got us out of the destruction of the Carter recession. The country was booming in 1985. Restaurants were desperate for dishwashers and had signs in their windows and at their curb. Dishwashers, $10 bucks. My 18 year old brother was washing dishes for 10 bucks. I was making 13 bucks as an AMF mechanic. You werent even making $10 in the 2000`s? hahaha
except do not ask him for a guitar pick.....he is a B leaguer and needs to remember the only songs people wanted to hear him play in Dio were written by Vivian Campbell
I met Craig one day at a gig for Wounded Warriers. He was so nice and actually complemented me on my guitar playing! Compared to Craig, I'm not much but he was so gracious! Love that guy!
As good as Goldy is, it was Vivian who was a big reason Dio was so great. The 1st 3 albums are what sells the band. I dont know the finances of the band, but Viv's financial situation before he joined Dio shouldnt have anything to do with how he should be compensated. He shouldve been compensated fairly from the 1st note he recorded with the band. Spare me the whataboutisms. When Goldy performs in his Dio tribute band, he he doesnt just play the songs he recorded with the band. A bulk of the show consists of song Vivian help create. Those are the songs people go to see performed.
Wow! Thank you all for such kind words! I don't expect everyone to like me or agree with me....but I am surprised by all the nice comments! I want to take a day and get back to each of you personally! Those who still think Viv got a bad deal.....I leave you with this: 1) All the band members say that they all felt the same way as Viv.....so why did they NOT all form a united front and leave it all to Viv at that point? The ONLY united front those 3 guys did was when they met with me to ask me to give them some of my money that I made with what I wrote. 2) I was in the same room when the promise was made. What is missing is the rest of what the actual promise was actually predicated upon. It was NOT just by the 3rd album. Because that leaves Ronnie open to less input from them and more pay to them for less. So, to counter balance this....the rest of the guys had to become stars in their own right by the record company standards....not just the fans. If that were the case....Vinny and Jimmy were already there on day one. It was standard practice back in those days that the record company would have a solo project clause for each band member. All they had to do was to meet with the record company and act upon that contract clause......which they all did NOT Had they gotten a solo deal on the side as they very well should've which would've put Ronnie in a place where the rest of the guys no longer needed him. THIS would've put it back on Ronnie. But there was no united front, just Viv, and no solo deals on the side which was the whole promise. If you think about it..... 3) Why did the other guys leave Viv hanging out to dry? THAT'S the real question here!! Thanks everyone!! When I circled back to this and read the comments....I was blown away by so many positive comments and replies! For me it's kind of an early Christmas present! Thank you! I'll be getting back to you all personally!! Until then....Happy Holidays or Merry Christmas which ever applies. And here's to hoping 2023 is kind to us all!
Unfortunately...as much as I love the first 3 Dio records..Ronnie and Wendy dio were really no different than ozzy and his wretched controlling wife Sharon. Ronnie just hid his underhandedness better. The only Dio records that even really sold were the records w Vivian!! So Dio screwed himself by losing Vivian..and he did nothing but shit talk him after the split. So....great music....shitty person!
I don't think keeping Viv would have made a difference. By 1986 traditional heavy metal bands like Priest, Maiden, Dio all started to experience a decline in record sales. The HM scene became divided between thrash bands and the more pop oriented glam metal bands . Dream Evil with Vivian Campbell still would have received the same reception in 1987. The only guy that was immune to this was Ozzy Osbourne.
I like Craig, honest guy, great guitarist. In fact his solo for "Time to Burn" is still one of my fav all time solo's. That said, he would never say anything that could remotely be considered controversial towards Ronnie. What sometimes get's lost is, regardless of how great a guy Ronnie was (and I was/am a huge fan), he gave his word to equal shares eventually. And for three albums the band toured behind Gold and Platinum albums, packed arenas and financially were making very little. Obviously Ronnie was bearing the brunt of the financial responsibility of the band, but he was also reaping the financial rewards. Simply put, don't give your word for something if you can't deliver. Yes it was Ronnie's prerogative to change his mind after all it was his record deal but also Vivian's choice to call him on it when his word had been given. As far as Bain and Appice staying, where were they going to go? Bain had already had his shot with Wild Horses. Appice's spot was already filled in Sabbath. Bottom line is the guys stayed because they had a steady paycheck. Maybe not big bucks but a bird in hand is better than two in the bush. And in fact Vivian essentially disappeared for a bit until he resurfaced with Whitesnake so regardless of whether he came from wealth, he certainly took a huge risk by getting himself fired for speaking out. The worst part of all of it was the bickering between the two in the years after. Gladly Vivian has been able to set the record straight and pay homage to his Dio roots and I'm sure had Ronnie lived he would have made amends with Vivian as well.
Well said John! I believe with all my heart that Vivian and the other band members were getting Screwed financially because of RJD’s inability to honor his promise to them! He allowed his wife to influence him to the point that his band members were making peanuts while Dio was making BANK from ticket sales, album sales, and merchandise sales! For being a “giving guy”, Dio definitely turned his back on his band mates!
Before you get too deep in music, understand, that whoever gets the money in their hand first,is gonna keep as much as they can, either outright or skimming. This leaves the actual musicians at the bottom with the founder/leader at the top of that pyramid.
@@barra6709 Of course Dio did good albums after Sacred Heart. Actually I think Sacred Heart is rather weak compared to something like Lock Up The Wolves. Rowan Robertson tears it up on that album. Amazing stuff
Thumbs Up! For ya! Craig! Down to Earth Guy! Says like it is! How THE music bussiness goes WHO gets what and His wievs on raising a family! Such an honorable Guy!
Some one on here made the comment that Vivian Campbell's contributions on Holy Diver was worth 40% for publishing royalties is exactly right right on that .Vivian wrote 90% of that music himself and his extraordinary talents on his guitar made the Album wat it was ! A absolute Heavy Metal Masterpiece .it made Dio's sound and brought Ronnie up to Super Rockstar status .and in my opinion in 1982 and 1983 there were 3 guitarist that stood out above and the rest at that particular time .Eddie Van Halen .Randy Rhoads .and Vivian Campbell . that was just the way it was .a few years later you had George Lynch and Warren DMartini and countless other that made their mark and shined really bright but in 82-83 there were only 3 that actually changed Rock and Heavy Metal through their song writing and guitar playing on studio albums .The first 2 Eddie played on .Randy's two and Vivian's first two (but:definitely Holy Diver) those 5 Albums are arguably the greatest Heavy Metal Guitar Records of all time . And top 3 all time .Van Halen .1 Ozzy .Diary Of A Madman .Dio .Holy Diver .I think there's no debating this .all 3 Complete Masterpieces and changed the course of how Rock and Metal would be defined for the rest of the decade and eternity
Excellent chat with Craig, unfortunately by Sacred Heart the magic was gone technically. Business destroys everything. I think Ronnie letting her steer the ship was a mistake. Wendy actually was maybe more interested in going to bathrooms to do coke with Stephen Pearcy.
According to Viv's own testimony, he was able to afford a Ferrari after 3 years of saving. That, in real terms today, put him well above the UK threshold for 'wealth' in terms of earnings back then. Put it this way: how many of you could buy a new Ferrari (even a bisic model) after 3 years of saving? Right.
I saw Craig play with Dio on the Dream evil tour, Toronto, early '88. He is an excellent guitarist, definitely a favorite of mine. This is a really good interview, I definitely want to hear more!
So with that child abuse story it sounds like he's confirming that Ronnie screwed over the other guys in the original band, even though he's trying not to. 😀 Edit: Wait, wtf.... he wrote co-wrote all the music on Killing The Dragon and got no publishing because he was no longer there to keep an eye on it? More confirmation that Ronnie screwed his band over.
No matter what, a band is not one person. Dio could not pull off what he was doing without a Band, if he wanted to do it that way, he could of used backing tracks and went and sang over them and had his one man show. It's no secret that he declined after Viv left. And I think Jimmy and Vinnie had much time invested with Ronnie to leave like Viv did, and they have agreed that what Viv said was the truth.
What a level-headed, intelligent and sincere guy he is. Dream Evil was one of Dio’s best and Craig was a huge part of it. The mix and overall production on that album is atrocious, but his playing still shined through, very unique and second only to Viv. Craig is also an excellent live performer and seems like a great guy. Awesome interview!
@@Malte-Micha Not a big fan of Dream Evil myself. Lock up the Wolves was a gamble for Dio. To go with (basically) an entire new lineup didn't seem like a good idea at the time and it wasn't. I imagine the extreme Dio fans found something to like about though.
@@roguefate666 Rowan Robertson was the guitar player on lock up the wolves. He was a nobody I don't know who else was in the line up for that album. I stayed far from the album.
@@Malte-Micha Simon Wright from ACDC played drums with Dio for several years. That was Lock up the Wolves was his first album. Same as you, I don't know who else was with him on that one. Jimmy did come back at some point but I don't know when exactly.
@@Malte-Micha Also, it seemed to me at the time that Ronnie was looking for his own Zakk Wylde with Rowan. The kid is still out there in the business from what I understand. Nothing to do with metal.
I think too much is put up on the shoulders of Vivian. by the time of Sacred Heart, that era had already run its course. It's not the the cool ChuckBerry-meets-the-80's guitarist, it's just what happens natrually over time. When Ronnie tried to press the reset button, Lock Up the Wolves was a better album than Dream Evil and Sacred Heart. He was always at his best when things were 'new', not just mkaking 'the next album'- Rising, Heaven and Hell and Holy Diver are all pretty new situations (although Rising was the 2nd, it was the start of a band, really)
I think it would have been funny if one of Dio or Ozzy's bandmembers had other secret businesses where they produced the merch that was sold at concerts...then get a piece of merch sales as well lol.
This was the most reasonable and level-headed synthesizing perspective on how things went down and probably the closest to the truth. Craig was amazing in Dio btw; always loved his performance in live concerts in particular.
Craig gets a lot of undeserved shite over Viv being out of DIO. I put the blame on Wendy just like Sharon with Ozzy. They both treated members of the band, especially guitarists like shite! Greedy English sea hags! I've meet and talked to Ronnie a couple of times throughout his bands years. Ronnie always made you feel like you're the important one and was very genuine and kind when chatting with you, he actually listened and was interested in what you had to say. The ONLY musician to constantly say, I'm nothing without you the fans! He was a baseball fanatic as well. Rock In Peace Ronnie. 🙏🤘🤘
@@zombiemachinery4868 like Jake e Lee said I don't care about the money just recognize me as the person who helped write the songs.. I mean all the fans know Ozzy didn't write the solos for any of his songs
Oh FUCK ME! I am so, so tired of Sonic Laborers just being ripped off by Records Labels, Management and the band leaders who are by labor law THE FUCKING EMPLOYERS! I was inside this inner circle back from 1983 to about 2006 and Ronnie owed and Wendy-Ex-Dio just did not do these guys right.
I never believed Vivian only made 150.00 a week! He owned a Ferrari, during , this time. I believe he was money hungry, that's why he's in def Leppard, and really doesn't even play 🎸 guitar, anymore.
The stuff Craig goes into here about songwriting, writing melodies & the creative process involved is incredible. I have never heard anyone express it better. Well worth hearing repeatedly…
The legal definitions applied to songwriting are pretty much as Craig explained. Unfortunately, they are entirely inadequate to explaining the fact that a song is more than the sum of its individual components. Listening to a song is an experience. It's not a mechanical thing where you can swap out a given musician's individual performance and end up with the same listening experience. It's not that simple. Using Dio as an example, substitute Simon for Vinnie and we're hearing something entirely different. Throw publishing into the mix and hard-feelings can arise pretty quickly when you're talking about writing credit. And, that just sucks entirely.
When Craig said that his son would only sleep on his chest that hit me straight in the heart because my daughter slept in my chest until she was about eight. Is my daughter I couldn't tell her no. Craig is a Class Act. He did the right thing and Ronnie saw that. That's probably why Ronnie called him back because if you're good to Ronnie, Ronnie will be good to you
‘If you’re good to Ronnie, Ronnie will be good to you”? Then why didn’t he PAY Vivian Campbell like he promised he would? He kept telling Vivian and the other members of the band, “wait until we cut our next album and then I’ll pay you”! Unfortunately, THAT NEVER HAPPENED! As much as I love Dio, he allowed his wife to influence him to the point of failing to pay his band mates what thy were worth which is UNFORGIVEABLE! I feel really bad for Campbell and the other members of Dio! VERY SAD INDEED!
I think Vivian was a really good guitarist, but Craig, IMHO is FAR better. Listen to some of his solos on Dream Evil or his live solos. The dude is AMAZING!
Sorry man! Concerning Viv and Ronnie, a promise is a promise. If after the 2nd album they were all to get an equal split from then on, c'mon! I applaud Viv standing up for himself. Sounds to me that Jimmy and Vinny left him hanging and chose to settle for the scraps they were getting. I don't know. Seems to me, you just can't trust anyone who has worked with Richie Blackmore. Sounds like he's been running a school for assholes. Dio and Coverdale quickly come to my mind.
I gained a whole lot of respect for Craig during this interview. Not that I didn't has respect for his musicanship, but I didn't know much about him on a personal level. This guy is a good man for staying & doing the right thing for his child, even to the point of losing money by not touring, and staying home to raise his child based on his principles. That is the quaintly of a REAL man.
When you hear Viv, Craig and Doug each reflect on their time with Dio, it can easily be culled that Ronnie might have come to terms with his own personality traits and as a result, sought grounded guitar players to somewhat offset his vibe. It likely would not have been a good relationship at all if Ronnie had chosen a guitar player whose personality clashed with his own. Can you imagine Ronnie trying to write an album with Yngwie? Two giants of metal but I would imagine getting an entire album and tour completed without one of them bolting would have been difficult. All three mentioned above are about the most down to earth guitar players any lead singer could hope for. Ronnie was blessed to have worked with them and likewise, them with him. On a final note, it's news to me that Craig wrote much of what we heard on 'Dragon. Now that I know this, I'm not surprised. Craig is a fantastic writer. Always has been.
It's crazy that Craig Goldy doesn't quite understand what is copyrightable in music -- It's not a split between melody & lyrics, AND music --- it's Lyrics = 50% --- Music = 50% --- and for the most part - the ONLY MUSIC ELEMENT that is copyrightable IS the MELODY. So it's feasible that a guitar player writing with a singer can find himself UNABLE to claim copyright On ANY component of the song - even riffs and chords which usually are considered part of the arrangement. That's why you should have a clear arrangement when writing with a partner on how you'll share copyright. I have one writing partner where we split everything down the middle - we both claim 50/50 no matter who brought what to the table. Often I'll produce a whole track - fully arranged and written musically with a melody scat sung for him to write lyrics to..... then we'll tweak the lyrics together - I''ll add a line or make some edits... technically I could claim the whole music portion of the song, and a share of the lyrics (giving me the larger share of the whole) ..... but that kind of arrangement gets in the way of being creative... so we just agree to credit ourselves as "words and music by..." at equal shares and then write great music. But there's another element here too -- because this copyright for the song has two components to it. There's the royalty paid to the named rights holder (the writer) and the publishing component. That payment is split 50/50..... So when you sign a deal with a music publisher - the publisher gets 50% of any royalty payment the song generates. Smart writers will form their own publishing entity and often will then partner with a traditional publisher to promote of collect these royalties. The argument being with out a publisher your music will get no distribution and 50% of something is worth more than 100% of nothing.... Keeping your publishing (or as much of it as you can) is very important for songwriters. And yet again none of this speaks to the copyright of the sound recording. Often Artists sign these away when they sign deals with labels. When you hear about "who owns the masters" they are usually talking about this element: Who owns the rights to sell or license the specific sound recording of the song. So to get a label deal, RJD as RJD inc dba "Dio" might have signed a deal with the label where he gets x$, or x% of revenue per sale the songs/album. The "band" doesn't necessarily have any claim to this. If RJD is the one signed to the label, the sound recording is owned by whatever deal RJD made with the label. He might have a side deal with the band - but that side deal can be complicated and it can take a long time for any money to trickle through the hierarchy of who owns what (and all the expenses that have to be covered) before trickling down to "the band" in any kind of profit or revenue share.... that's why RJD's band were on contract as sidemen - and why RJD said that they'd work their way into ownership over the course of three albums.
This is why in every band I've ever been in, (Other than preexisting lineups I joined), I've insisted on equal shares for every member, provided they do their part, for as long as they're in the band. If they were lazy and just phoning it in, they were out. One little thing can make or break a song, whether is Roger Waters Scream going in Another Brick in the wall, or the guitar solo for Hotel California. That one little contribution to the larger song could mean everything. To squabble over percentages does nothing but drive a wedge between band members.
That wouldn't work for me. The drummer (for example) shouldn't get songwriting credits unless they write music or lyrics. Drum parts and bass lines can't be copyrighted. Even guitar solos can't be copyrighted. Duane Allman got zero credit for "Layla" (but I think he should have; that guitar riff is iconic & it really sets the "theme" of the song). Also, Roger Waters wrote "Another Brick in the Wall" by himself.
@@markcheetah4960 I kind of disagree but you're also correct that's why I'm the drummer/led vocals in the band that writes the lyrics. Thanks Neil (R.I.P)
@@fogtooth6824 That's cool, man... Rock ON!! I play guitar but I'm not very good so I was always on lead vocals (only). But I did write songs by myself; music and lyrics. I couldn't play decent guitar solos, so I'd tell the guitarist to make something up. Bands broke up & I took my songs with me to play in different bands. I'd play tapes and tell the new guitarist "Please don't copy that guy... play your OWN solo there." Band members are usually pretty cool & the guys I knew never insisted on songwriting credits. You pretty much know if you actually wrote an integral part of a song or not.
Craig is by far the most credible guy to come from the era.. It's really awesome that he takes the time to go in depth with information. So much respect for Craig.
This is a phenomenal interview. I gotta say after listening to this interview, it really gave me a new appreciation for Craig. He comes off as very down to earth guy and he gave a very fresh new point of view on the Vivian vs Ronnie feud. Thanks for posting
maybe craigs theory falls apart a little - because didnt jimmy and at least vinnie leave not too long after? In any case craig goldy sounds like a decent chap....saw him play in melbourne - he was great player.
MUCH MUCH MUCH MORE RESPECT for Craig after this interview. I bet he is just one of the coolest guys you can sit down and have a beer with.
Agreed! To give up a chance to tour supporting the music you helped write, so you can be at home to take care of, and raise your child is what being a "real" man is all about IMHO. Similar to what a bassist friend of mine did. He had the opportunity to tour with BB King when he was younger, but chose to stay home to help raise his children. He did eventually tour with Albert King, and other famous blues musicians, but it was after his kids were grown.
I've never met Craig, but not only is he one of the best guitarists I've heard, he consistently seems like the coolest, most normal guy. A rare soul in entertainment.
@Burning Daylight
Thank you for that! Very, very cool thing to say!! My girlfriend might laugh at the word "normal"!!! Ha ha but not ha ha!! I'm just a fan that got into the band!! For me.....it's all about the creativity and that dreams can come true! Most people won't even allow themselves to dream! And if I am a rare soul.....you certainly can only recognize it because you are too!! Thank you!!
Agreed. He seems like a really cool dude to hang out with.
He's definitely a badass and one of the 'Night People'
Just listening to Craig one can clearly see he is a man of integrity a quality few dirtbags in the music business possess!
oh really then why is he not ripping Ronnie and Wendy for lying to Viv and not paying him as they promised?
*Ho DOES seem to be trying his best to be very fair. I think it's a big indicator about the speaker when they just paint others in a broad way as horrible or perfect. He Craig doesn't do that.* 🤘🏼
I like Craig and think he is an excellent guitarist. Even if what he is saying here is true about the original Dio band, I have a feeling that Vivian was never going to get what was promised to him. It is just how it goes. They would have scrapped Viv sooner or later for someone who could do the job and take less, rather than live up to a promise to give him a bigger slice of the pie. Once you start making more money, you don't want to give away more than the bare minimum. As with Ozzy, Ronnie may have intended for his original band to be a real band, but as with Ozzy, it didn't take long to scrap that in favor of being more of a solo act with hired hands. Eh, just my opinion.
Excellent take on that. Couldn't agree more.
Sharon. Then Wendy.
@@seagullpoet And the boys couldn't agree more with their queens
I stopped listening to DiO after Vivian left. Vivian was not okay with getting screwed, Craig was content with getting screwed. Craig ha ha is such a brown tongue, that he talks exactly like Ronnie. Wow
@@notforyoutube - Craig was living in his car, typical LA story - he readily wanted to be a steady band employee & did not have the expectations of being a full partner to the bandleader who had been famous for any years.
Yes, Dio ruined the band chemistry of Bain/Appice//Campbell and yes, many of us stopped listening or caring then. It was unwise and egocentric.
Vivian campbells work on the last in line and holy diver was absolutely blistering,some awesome tracks saved for time and generations..
if they were "hired hands" thats one thing....but Viv wasnt. he was a member of Dio...3 albums to "maybe" make some money...it excessive as hell imo
The rug was pulled out from under his feet magic trick.
My respect for Craig as a guitarist has always been big but after hearing this portion of his interview my respect has grown even more, he sounds like a solid good man.
@Syd
Thank you for that!! Very kind thing to say and I appreciate that very much and I appreciate you!!
I agree. I've always appreciated his guitar playing/songwriting, but after hearing this interview, I'm even more impressed with him as a human being with character and integrity.
Sounds like a good guy and a great dad too…
Ditto man...👍
Vivian’s contribution of those epic solos on Holy Diver are easily worth 40% Each one was stellar!
that is not how songwriting works
@@Dave_Wight_The_Rock_Oracle we know
According to Vivian, they had a deal and Dio didnt honor it. And if you get writing credits, you are supposed to get paid.
A GUITARISTS JOB IS......TO PLAY THE GUITAR UR A FUCKING IDIOT AND LET ME GUESS.....A BEDROOM SHREDDER! IM RIGHT ARENT I.
@@rticle15 Vivian was a great guitarist but he got delusions of grandeur, he never wrote a great song after he left Dio.
Maximum respect to Craig Goldy... ultimate best parent, good person, excellent guitar player and musician
@RockbertoRocks
Thank you my friend! But I'm thinking that only another good parent would say that! And I thank you for your other kind words! Means more than you could ever know!!
@@TCraigGoldyI appreciate the fact that he wrote about the type of parent you are first, as that is what is of the most importance, and really defines your character.
@@Metalbass10000
Thank you! It's interesting who focuses in on this portion! That's cool of you to say!
Wow Craig Goldy a really classy guy. I never knew that story of why he left the band initially and then came back. A stand up guy 🤘🤘🤘
Great interview. Great insight. 52 years old here. Was fortunate as a 15 year old kid to have seen Dio lineup in 1985, 1986.
Wow! What a great and insightful interview. Craig really seem like the most grounded, smart and humble guy ever, a genuinely good guy.
Exactly and the kind of guy I wish I'd had I'm my past bands, I can't help but wish Craig the Very Best!
Wow, that story about his wife in Denmark and the baby was touching and showed how much integrity he has. He is also a great musician. I also liked how he gave insight into how publishing works in the music business.
The 80's had so many great guitar players. What a decade for guitarists.
They're still around, but nobody makes rock bands anymore. In fact, bands in general are going away...
@@billydeewilliams9104 it's super sad we haven't had a #1 rock n roll hit in 23 years. The only people I know in bands down here in Florida are Boomers or Gen X like me.
Craig sounds like a great guy. I think the real problem was that Ronnie just couldn’t stand up to Wendy, you have to remember how music biz works part of the pie was going to her right off the top. I really believe from what I’ve heard that Ronnie really intended to come through but was under a lot of pressure and stress and some fear that he wouldn’t get what he’d been supposed to get again. And as far as Vivian goes imagine writing one of the greatest guitar albums of the 80’s and not getting compensated for it. As a player that started in that era Vivian was and still is on of my greatest influences! I mean I love Randy, Eddie all the greats before and since but I probably actually played more in the style of Vivian and George Lynch, not as well but those are the guys I copy the most lol!
DING DING DING!!! I think we have a WINNER here! Wendy WAS the manager and wife of Ronnie, just like Sharon was to Ozzy. We all know what happened with Bob Daisley, Lee Kerslake and Jake E Lee. Can you imagine Wendy, in Ronnie's ear saying, " Well OZZY did this, and OZZY did that ". I think both Ozzy and RJD started out with good intentions and were steered away by their wives. But in the end, both bands put out some epic albums that I still enjoy, these many years later. Great interview as always, bringing insight of the bands and music business to us fans. 😎
@@juve3690 still blame Ronnie
@@juve3690 Yeah!... I still blame Ronnie even though I see where you're coming from. I could see Sharon getting away with it with Ozzy because let's face it, he's NOT the brightest and I believe she could manipulate him easily. But in this, I blame Ozzy too! Right is right!
Ronnie on the other hand is a pretty disciplined and focused guy. You're telling me that he couldn't stand up to his wife concerning a verbal contract made with other band members? Nah, I don't buy it. They were both in on it.
@@gun_toting_lefty I agree. Maybe RJD said to Wendy, ok, twist my arm...I'll pay em more when we release the third album...Money and success can alter a person's character from what we've seen over the years with many bands. But like I've said before, I still enjoy listening to their music. In a way, knowing a lot of the inside stuff that FIB covers, shedding light on the different personalities, makes the music from back then even more intimate. And I'm digging it. Keep em coming I say!
I had no idea Craig was such a genius! Everything he says are facts.. love his parenting advice!
The 4 F's: Fair, Fun, Firm, Followthrough. I thought that was excellent too! Much more respect for him because of this!
@@glory777 yes! That’s what I was thinking of. I’ll have to remember that!
I think people over casually through the word ‘genius’ around as a catch all phrase instead of being more specific and saying someone is smart or clever. Does anyone even know the the true definition of the word ‘genius’.
99% of musicians are NOT geniuses. Theyre barely above the intelligence level of an ape and being called a ‘genius’ because they regurgitate a few facts to folks that sit around smoking dope and watching dumb tv shows all day.
do not ask him for a guitar pick on that classic metal show...
Craig is a good guitairst, a B leaguer, but every song people want to hear him play has Vivian on it asa songwriter essentially.
Genius? People throw words around like that way to much
I was disappointed when Ronnie let Viv walk...though Criag did a stand up job with Dio, Viv was the original and brought the unique chemistry to that lineup at the time...what a shame
Viv didn't walk away. He was fired by RJD or Wendy. Fyi
@@stevengoodman3498 yes I know that..I should check my terminology..all the same , the fact remains
@@shreddinjoe no disrespect intended or implied. Viv got shafted by them both. Just like Ozzy and Sharon did to Jake E Lee. Just sickens me these stars are making millions while the musicians making the music don't get publishing or credit for the songs they worked so hard on. Viv was making $400 dollars a week working for RJD which is a disgrace. He is one of the greatest artists of our time and deserved better. Even the road crew got paid better! Have a great rest of your week.
@@stevengoodman3498 I couldn't agree more my friend...it is indeed sickening. Apparently during those times, the 80s, Jake and Viv were only a small batch that got 100% screwed...the tours for all 3 albums ,holy diver, last in line, sacred heart, were all very high grossing tours...and the band members only got a small salary...while (someone) else was raking in millions....I don't blame Viv for stepping up wanting his fair share...he was a key element in the creation of those records..with all due respect to Goldie, it like a slap upside the head watching Goldie play Vivs songs to us, the fans
Craig is a classy guy. I’ve never heard him say a bad word about anyone.
Craig comes across as a class act and a stand up guy. Nice interview!
Love both guitarists. Vivian's solo On Rainbow in the Dark remains one of my favorites after all these years.
Hungry for heaven is my favorite
It's a decent solo. Vivian is certainly no Randy Rhoads or Michael Schenker though. But let's be honest, it sounds like Vivian tried his best to do a Gary Moore impersonation. Which makes sense ( not an excuse ) because Vivian worshipped Gary.
I don't think the goofy fire breathing dragon was needed if it contributed at all to the division between these two extremely talented dudes. Dio laid down the best vocals in metal (debatable, sure), Vivian laid down some of the best solos in metal. Irreplaceable chemistry messed up by money. Sad!
I respect Goldy for putting his family first with his son
Craig is an amazing guitar player. Humble and so talented. One of my favorites. A true professional.
Great interview and I always wondered what his thoughts were on the Viv split. I think he played it rather diplomatically. It's like Ozzy told Jake "I had to fuck you, Sabbath fucked me; when you get your own band you fuck them". It's crude but probably just the way it is when you have the name behind the band in essence be it Dio, Ozzy or DLR. Money changes people 🤷♂️
This was the BEST explanation of publishing I've ever heard! Thanks Craig!
Very intelligent, well-spoken man. One helluva' a musician.
I love Craig. He is a stand up guy. And he'll tell it like it is, without shit talking anyone. He's been very kind and generous with his time and stories. And if you're reading this Craig, hope all is well, it's been a few since we've chatted, but I really hope to have more conversations with you soon!
he totally doesn't care about you
@@TheBigMclargehuge whatever, I dont expect he's thinking about me. Don't be dumb. He's a good guy, and you...are not
Ok but he needs to remember just about every song people want to hear him play with Dio had Vivian as a songwriter on it
@@TheBigMclargehuge
Sorry.....but you're wrong! Even though I've never met Eric in person....through the comment section of some of these YT videos....much like with Facebook....you can actually become friends with someone you've never met before.....and I personally think of Eric as my friend!!
@@Dave_Wight_The_Rock_Oracle
That's very true! Those first 3 Dio albums are insanely amazing! And I loved playing his solos live!! But also remember....they were under Ronnie's guidance! I hate to say it....but I haven't heard anything from Viv lately that even touches those songs and solos! Don't get me wrong.....Viv is Ferocious on guitar! And he is so much a part of why those albums are as good as they are.....but Jimmy and Vinny have always remained stellar before, during and after!
I personally have nothing against Viv and have total respect for his playing on those 3 albums and live performances!!
And he will always be THEE quintessential Dio guitarist!!
Craig seems like the coolest guy. Really a stand up dude.
He stayed with a woman he wanted to break up with because of the kid. Kinda sucks for him. Not so much being a stand up dude.
@@SonnyGTA Bro, on the contrary. If what you are saying is true and that stuff is really none of our business, he put the feelings of the kid before his own. Thats a stand up guy trying to be a good role model for the kid. So, what you ssaid really makes no sense.
I think Craig realized he had to sacrifice himself to be able to get the exposure of playing for such a huge idol, but in the end this confirms that Dio and Wendy were f*cking everyone up and Vivian was the only one to speak up, I mean he made 3 records with Dio, how much sh*t did he have to take? This is so painful to me as a fan because I love Ozzy and Dio's music to the core but to see that even Dio was getting into these dodgy management despicable business practices truly breaks my heart.
Their shady actions do make it difficult to listen to the music without the shade dulling the brilliance.
Whatever. Vov was an amazing guitarist. DIO was a god.
@@UnitedElectric, no sh*t Sherlock.
what a brilliant interview. Craig rules.
GREAT interview, many thanks.
The biz side of things is why music deserves to die (and it has). Thieves stealing from thieves.
As for Dio, it's complicated. But I side with Viv.....he was a kid who gave his all, and was denied his payoff. Same thing happened with many others in that mix of Dio, Sabbath and Ozzy.
Those guitarists were simply wage slaves.
I read where some in the Eagles did the same thing. Change a word in a song and get royalties.
If you are going into music today....get a lawyer before you tune your guitar.
I side with Viv too. Craig makes valid points and explains the split deal perfectly but Viv`s guitar work is 50%+ of those 2 albums. It should have been 40% Dio and the 3 guys split the remaining 60%. Viv, 25% and Vinnie and John split 35%. It is, Dio`s band, so he deserves the biggest chunk. By the 2nd album Viv should have been 35% Dio, 35% Viv and 15% each for the other 2 guys.
Ronnie James Dio was the reason any of them were getting paychecks. Vivian got plenty of exposure and street cred by being in the band and that goes for something. Take Ronnie out of the band or off the tour and tell me it wouldn’t have a greater effect than removing Viv. Let’s be real here, talent or not Vivian Campbell was launched by this guy. I would never expect anybody in that band to expect equal billing or equal compensation.
@@chuckbush2757 I agree about Dio`s name recognition, he is at the top of the band food chain.
However, 300 bucks per week is bullshit. They had a gold record right out of the box and soon after a head lining tour.
Unlike most bands, that acquire tons of debt on the road for years and putting out records that flop before they break a record. Dio had a gold record and a tour.
The band had minimum debt.
He learned how to be a cut throat dirtbag from those bastards from England. All of them did it. They keep 90% of the money and giving the crumbs to the underlings all the while dangling the carrot of, dont worry, ya gonna get paid.
This being said, Vivian could have, and should have walked when Dio and Wendy continued to dangle the carrot in front of his face as they went in to record the follow up to holy diver. He should have demanded atleast $5,000 in his hand before he started contributing in the studio. Want to treat me as a paid employee, you can pay me like a studio musician. But Dio played up the rah, rah, we are a band, we are one speech.
All the while, he and Wendy were stashing the money away for themselves.
300 bucks per week during holy diver and I think on the last in line tour they got bumped up to 500. haha
Back in 1985 a dishwasher was making 10 bucks an hour/400 per week. haha But a guitarist in a rock band that has two gold, soon to be platinum records and a headlining tour is making what a dishwasher slob makes? haha
10,000 seat gig, 10 bucks per ticket. 100,000 per night. whack off 50k for expenses and taxes. that leaves 50k and he is paying his members 500 per week?
Dio and Wendy were bastards.
I know Dio had everybody fooled with his, soft spoken, mellow and caring personality but he was a nasty, miserable little troll. Just like Eddie VH was.
There is a video on YT of him being interviewed on his tour bus and Viv is brought up and you can see the real Dio without his mask. haha
@john smith What places in 1985 were paying dishwashers $10/hour? Minimum wage in 1985 was just over $3/hour. I wasn’t even making $10/hour in the 2000s, and I live in a state with pretty high minimum wage.
@@westonparker5940 Where were you living, Mississippi? I grew up in CT. The minimum wage in CT. in 1981 was $4 something. By 1984 President Reagan had finally got us out of the destruction of the Carter recession. The country was booming in 1985. Restaurants were desperate for dishwashers and had signs in their windows and at their curb. Dishwashers, $10 bucks. My 18 year old brother was washing dishes for 10 bucks. I was making 13 bucks as an AMF mechanic. You werent even making $10 in the 2000`s? hahaha
Craig is so matter of fact. I've talked with him at NAMM really comes off as a truly decent guy👍🏼🍻🇺🇸
I was REALLY inpressed by this piece! 💯🇺🇸
except do not ask him for a guitar pick.....he is a B leaguer and needs to remember the only songs people wanted to hear him play in Dio were written by Vivian Campbell
@@Dave_Wight_The_Rock_Oracle I hear ya, I'm a Bass player , no pick required🤣😂🤣
@Hal Colombo Garcia is a B leaguer for one of the worst bands in history....why mention him
@Hal Colombo 🙏🤣
I met Craig one day at a gig for Wounded Warriers. He was so nice and actually complemented me on my guitar playing! Compared to Craig, I'm not much but he was so gracious! Love that guy!
As good as Goldy is, it was Vivian who was a big reason Dio was so great. The 1st 3 albums are what sells the band. I dont know the finances of the band, but Viv's financial situation before he joined Dio shouldnt have anything to do with how he should be compensated. He shouldve been compensated fairly from the 1st note he recorded with the band. Spare me the whataboutisms. When Goldy performs in his Dio tribute band, he he doesnt just play the songs he recorded with the band. A bulk of the show consists of song Vivian help create. Those are the songs people go to see performed.
Wow! Thank you all for such kind words! I don't expect everyone to like me or agree with me....but I am surprised by all the nice comments! I want to take a day and get back to each of you personally!
Those who still think Viv got a bad deal.....I leave you with this:
1) All the band members say that they all felt the same way as Viv.....so why did they NOT all form a united front and leave it all to Viv at that point?
The ONLY united front those 3 guys did was when they met with me to ask me to give them some of my money that I made with what I wrote.
2) I was in the same room when the promise was made. What is missing is the rest of what the actual promise was actually predicated upon. It was NOT just by the 3rd album. Because that leaves Ronnie open to less input from them and more pay to them for less.
So, to counter balance this....the rest of the guys had to become stars in their own right by the record company standards....not just the fans. If that were the case....Vinny and Jimmy were already there on day one.
It was standard practice back in those days that the record company would have a solo project clause for each band member.
All they had to do was to meet with the record company and act upon that contract clause......which they all did NOT
Had they gotten a solo deal on the side as they very well should've which would've put Ronnie in a place where the rest of the guys no longer needed him. THIS would've put it back on Ronnie.
But there was no united front, just Viv, and no solo deals on the side which was the whole promise.
If you think about it.....
3) Why did the other guys leave Viv hanging out to dry? THAT'S the real question here!!
Thanks everyone!! When I circled back to this and read the comments....I was blown away by so many positive comments and replies!
For me it's kind of an early Christmas present!
Thank you! I'll be getting back to you all personally!! Until then....Happy Holidays or Merry Christmas which ever applies. And here's to hoping 2023 is kind to us all!
Unfortunately...as much as I love the first 3 Dio records..Ronnie and Wendy dio were really no different than ozzy and his wretched controlling wife Sharon. Ronnie just hid his underhandedness better. The only Dio records that even really sold were the records w Vivian!! So Dio screwed himself by losing Vivian..and he did nothing but shit talk him after the split. So....great music....shitty person!
Sharron's father was Don Arden and that is all anyone needs to know really.
@@tommaguzzi1723 and he's another worthless turd...greedy scumbag..thats where Sharon got it
I don't think keeping Viv would have made a difference. By 1986 traditional heavy metal bands like Priest, Maiden, Dio all started to experience a decline in record sales. The HM scene became divided between thrash bands and the more pop oriented glam metal bands .
Dream Evil with Vivian Campbell still would have received the same reception in 1987.
The only guy that was immune to this was Ozzy Osbourne.
@@angryagain3801 actually, didn't Ozzy go glam around that time?
@@machupikachu1085 Yes - the glam look was all the rage at that time
I like Craig, honest guy, great guitarist. In fact his solo for "Time to Burn" is still one of my fav all time solo's. That said, he would never say anything that could remotely be considered controversial towards Ronnie. What sometimes get's lost is, regardless of how great a guy Ronnie was (and I was/am a huge fan), he gave his word to equal shares eventually. And for three albums the band toured behind Gold and Platinum albums, packed arenas and financially were making very little. Obviously Ronnie was bearing the brunt of the financial responsibility of the band, but he was also reaping the financial rewards. Simply put, don't give your word for something if you can't deliver. Yes it was Ronnie's prerogative to change his mind after all it was his record deal but also Vivian's choice to call him on it when his word had been given. As far as Bain and Appice staying, where were they going to go? Bain had already had his shot with Wild Horses. Appice's spot was already filled in Sabbath. Bottom line is the guys stayed because they had a steady paycheck. Maybe not big bucks but a bird in hand is better than two in the bush. And in fact Vivian essentially disappeared for a bit until he resurfaced with Whitesnake so regardless of whether he came from wealth, he certainly took a huge risk by getting himself fired for speaking out. The worst part of all of it was the bickering between the two in the years after. Gladly Vivian has been able to set the record straight and pay homage to his Dio roots and I'm sure had Ronnie lived he would have made amends with Vivian as well.
Well said John! I believe with all my heart that Vivian and the other band members were getting Screwed financially because of RJD’s inability to honor his promise to them! He allowed his wife to influence him to the point that his band members were making peanuts while Dio was making BANK from ticket sales, album sales, and merchandise sales! For being a “giving guy”, Dio definitely turned his back on his band mates!
My guitar hero! Thomas Goldy!
*Craig is super nice and kinda humble. If you reply to his posts on RUclips he usually responds very kindly. Plus, he's a great guitarist!*
Before you get too deep in music, understand, that whoever gets the money in their hand first,is gonna keep as much as they can, either outright or skimming. This leaves the actual musicians at the bottom with the founder/leader at the top of that pyramid.
One of the few good guys Ive ever heard of in the music business....Craig never talks shit And he plays the hell out of his guitar !
Man I love listening to Craig. Great guitar player and speaks very well.
The music industry was definitely cut throat, a lot of musicians were left burnt and unpaid
Craig sounds like a really level headed guy and he seems to have had a unique perspective to watch how this business relationship worked.
Without Vivian Campbell dio's music wouldn't have been as successful.
Yes it would have
@@koolkitties8552 it wasn't, and that's no secret.
I don't think he wrote a decent album after he sacked Vivian.
@@barra6709 Of course Dio did good albums after Sacred Heart. Actually I think Sacred Heart is rather weak compared to something like Lock Up The Wolves. Rowan Robertson tears it up on that album. Amazing stuff
Dio ripped Campbell off end of
Craig, I think your Dream Child album is awesome. Your guitar is more prominent and the vocalist is very Dio like!
Craig sounds like a good dude. Thanks for another great interview. Really like your channel. Always good stuff. 👍
Thumbs Up! For ya! Craig! Down to Earth Guy! Says like it is! How THE music bussiness goes WHO gets what and His wievs on raising a family! Such an honorable Guy!
Well stated and all true!
Some one on here made the comment that Vivian Campbell's contributions on Holy Diver was worth 40% for publishing royalties is exactly right right on that .Vivian wrote 90% of that music himself and his extraordinary talents on his guitar made the Album wat it was ! A absolute Heavy Metal Masterpiece .it made Dio's sound and brought Ronnie up to Super Rockstar status .and in my opinion in 1982 and 1983 there were 3 guitarist that stood out above and the rest at that particular time .Eddie Van Halen .Randy Rhoads .and Vivian Campbell . that was just the way it was .a few years later you had George Lynch and Warren DMartini and countless other that made their mark and shined really bright but in 82-83 there were only 3 that actually changed Rock and Heavy Metal through their song writing and guitar playing on studio albums .The first 2 Eddie played on .Randy's two and Vivian's first two (but:definitely Holy Diver) those 5 Albums are arguably the greatest Heavy Metal Guitar Records of all time . And top 3 all time .Van Halen .1 Ozzy .Diary Of A Madman .Dio .Holy Diver .I think there's no debating this .all 3 Complete Masterpieces and changed the course of how Rock and Metal would be defined for the rest of the decade and eternity
I met Vivian Campbell when he had a guitar clinic when he was with Whitesnake total a hole
Why?
Goldy rules man!!!
Dont believe me?
Pls see: 'Night People'
Excellent chat with Craig, unfortunately by Sacred Heart the magic was gone technically. Business destroys everything. I think Ronnie letting her steer the ship was a mistake. Wendy actually was maybe more interested in going to bathrooms to do coke with Stephen Pearcy.
Craig is indeed a class guy. I have first hand experience with him treating my father absolutely wonderfully after a show.
Wow. This was really informative on what publishing is and how the money earned from publishing is distributed..
Yeah - unfairly!
This is a great interview. Very insightful.
According to Viv's own testimony, he was able to afford a Ferrari after 3 years of saving. That, in real terms today, put him well above the UK threshold for 'wealth' in terms of earnings back then. Put it this way: how many of you could buy a new Ferrari (even a bisic model) after 3 years of saving? Right.
I saw Craig play with Dio on the Dream evil tour, Toronto, early '88. He is an excellent guitarist, definitely a favorite of mine. This is a really good interview, I definitely want to hear more!
Craig is a great guitarist and an awesome person! Vivian and Craig were the best Dio guitarist!🤘🏽🤘🏽🤘🏽🤘🏽🤘🏽
Dream Evil kicks ass
Craig has his math down to the tee when it comes to business and publishing.
So with that child abuse story it sounds like he's confirming that Ronnie screwed over the other guys in the original band, even though he's trying not to. 😀 Edit: Wait, wtf.... he wrote co-wrote all the music on Killing The Dragon and got no publishing because he was no longer there to keep an eye on it? More confirmation that Ronnie screwed his band over.
IKR? 15 years after Viv, Ronnie and Wendy still couldn't be fair. :(
Graig Goldy is such a great person, I sure learned a lot about songwriting on this one too. Thanks!!
I can't imagine " Don't Talk to Strangers " without Vivs guitar.
No matter what, a band is not one person. Dio could not pull off what he was doing without a Band, if he wanted to do it that way, he could of used backing tracks and went and sang over them and had his one man show.
It's no secret that he declined after Viv left.
And I think Jimmy and Vinnie had much time invested with Ronnie to leave like Viv did, and they have agreed that what Viv said was the truth.
Jimmy in multiple interviews backed up what Viv said, and also just generally that Ronnie was a cheapass when it came to his band AND crew.
What a level-headed, intelligent and sincere guy he is. Dream Evil was one of Dio’s best and Craig was a huge part of it. The mix and overall production on that album is atrocious, but his playing still shined through, very unique and second only to Viv. Craig is also an excellent live performer and seems like a great guy. Awesome interview!
Dream evil was Dio worst album that ended his major label success. Lock up the wolves did even worse.
@@Malte-Micha Not a big fan of Dream Evil myself. Lock up the Wolves was a gamble for Dio. To go with (basically) an entire new lineup didn't seem like a good idea at the time and it wasn't. I imagine the extreme Dio fans found something to like about though.
@@roguefate666 Rowan Robertson was the guitar player on lock up the wolves. He was a nobody I don't know who else was in the line up for that album. I stayed far from the album.
@@Malte-Micha Simon Wright from ACDC played drums with Dio for several years. That was Lock up the Wolves was his first album. Same as you, I don't know who else was with him on that one. Jimmy did come back at some point but I don't know when exactly.
@@Malte-Micha Also, it seemed to me at the time that Ronnie was looking for his own Zakk Wylde with Rowan. The kid is still out there in the business from what I understand. Nothing to do with metal.
you got morals Craig, good on you.
I think too much is put up on the shoulders of Vivian. by the time of Sacred Heart, that era had already run its course. It's not the the cool ChuckBerry-meets-the-80's guitarist, it's just what happens natrually over time.
When Ronnie tried to press the reset button, Lock Up the Wolves was a better album than Dream Evil and Sacred Heart. He was always at his best when things were 'new', not just mkaking 'the next album'- Rising, Heaven and Hell and Holy Diver are all pretty new situations (although Rising was the 2nd, it was the start of a band, really)
Not a fan of Craig's work in Dio but he sure sounds like one hell of good down to earth level headed guy.
I think it would have been funny if one of Dio or Ozzy's bandmembers had other secret businesses where they produced the merch that was sold at concerts...then get a piece of merch sales as well lol.
This was the most reasonable and level-headed synthesizing perspective on how things went down and probably the closest to the truth. Craig was amazing in Dio btw; always loved his performance in live concerts in particular.
Craig gets a lot of undeserved shite over Viv being out of DIO. I put the blame on Wendy just like Sharon with Ozzy. They both treated members of the band, especially guitarists like shite! Greedy English sea hags! I've meet and talked to Ronnie a couple of times throughout his bands years. Ronnie always made you feel like you're the important one and was very genuine and kind when chatting with you, he actually listened and was interested in what you had to say. The ONLY musician to constantly say, I'm nothing without you the fans! He was a baseball fanatic as well. Rock In Peace Ronnie. 🙏🤘🤘
Guitarists - back then - were just as important as the singer.
No matter how he says it, Ronnie screwed them over for publishing..
Yes.
@@zombiemachinery4868 like Jake e Lee said I don't care about the money just recognize me as the person who helped write the songs.. I mean all the fans know Ozzy didn't write the solos for any of his songs
Oh FUCK ME! I am so, so tired of Sonic Laborers just being ripped off by Records Labels, Management and the band leaders who are by labor law THE FUCKING EMPLOYERS! I was inside this inner circle back from 1983 to about 2006 and Ronnie owed and Wendy-Ex-Dio just did not do these guys right.
I never believed Vivian only made 150.00 a week! He owned a Ferrari, during , this time. I believe he was money hungry, that's why he's in def Leppard, and really doesn't even play 🎸 guitar, anymore.
The stuff Craig goes into here about songwriting, writing melodies & the creative process involved is incredible. I have never heard anyone express it better. Well worth hearing repeatedly…
The legal definitions applied to songwriting are pretty much as Craig explained. Unfortunately, they are entirely inadequate to explaining the fact that a song is more than the sum of its individual components. Listening to a song is an experience. It's not a mechanical thing where you can swap out a given musician's individual performance and end up with the same listening experience. It's not that simple. Using Dio as an example, substitute Simon for Vinnie and we're hearing something entirely different. Throw publishing into the mix and hard-feelings can arise pretty quickly when you're talking about writing credit. And, that just sucks entirely.
@@roguefate666 well said!
@@Zepster77 Thank you!
Craig is a good guy. He's also a great guitar player, but he's a good guy first and foremost.
When Craig said that his son would only sleep on his chest that hit me straight in the heart because my daughter slept in my chest until she was about eight. Is my daughter I couldn't tell her no. Craig is a Class Act. He did the right thing and Ronnie saw that. That's probably why Ronnie called him back because if you're good to Ronnie, Ronnie will be good to you
‘If you’re good to Ronnie, Ronnie will be good to you”? Then why didn’t he PAY Vivian Campbell like he promised he would? He kept telling Vivian and the other members of the band, “wait until we cut our next album and then I’ll pay you”! Unfortunately, THAT NEVER HAPPENED! As much as I love Dio, he allowed his wife to influence him to the point of failing to pay his band mates what thy were worth which is UNFORGIVEABLE! I feel really bad for Campbell and the other members of Dio! VERY SAD INDEED!
Class act til he boned Wendy. Kind of like she did Paul Shortino and about a hundred others.
I think Vivian was a really good guitarist, but Craig, IMHO is FAR better. Listen to some of his solos on Dream Evil or his live solos. The dude is AMAZING!
I saw Goldy with Dio. He's an absolute beast.
I just thought he was another hair guy that played guitar. I am definitely wrong. Very intelligent man... I love the four fs. Very cool!!!
Sorry man! Concerning Viv and Ronnie, a promise is a promise. If after the 2nd album they were all to get an equal split from then on, c'mon! I applaud Viv standing up for himself. Sounds to me that Jimmy and Vinny left him hanging and chose to settle for the scraps they were getting.
I don't know. Seems to me, you just can't trust anyone who has worked with Richie Blackmore. Sounds like he's been running a school for assholes. Dio and Coverdale quickly come to my mind.
Wow. I knew nothing of Craig Goldy before this. He is a VERY impressive person.
I gained a whole lot of respect for Craig during this interview. Not that I didn't has respect for his musicanship, but I didn't know much about him on a personal level. This guy is a good man for staying & doing the right thing for his child, even to the point of losing money by not touring, and staying home to raise his child based on his principles. That is the quaintly of a REAL man.
AWESOME INTERVIEW AND CRAIG REALLY LAID IT OUT GOOD FOR US !!!
Craig is just a good human being. Period.
Sounds like a VERY STAND UP GUY. RESPECT - CRAIG!
When you hear Viv, Craig and Doug each reflect on their time with Dio, it can easily be culled that Ronnie might have come to terms with his own personality traits and as a result, sought grounded guitar players to somewhat offset his vibe. It likely would not have been a good relationship at all if Ronnie had chosen a guitar player whose personality clashed with his own. Can you imagine Ronnie trying to write an album with Yngwie? Two giants of metal but I would imagine getting an entire album and tour completed without one of them bolting would have been difficult. All three mentioned above are about the most down to earth guitar players any lead singer could hope for. Ronnie was blessed to have worked with them and likewise, them with him. On a final note, it's news to me that Craig wrote much of what we heard on 'Dragon. Now that I know this, I'm not surprised. Craig is a fantastic writer. Always has been.
Ok, did I just hear him equate the cycle of abuse in families with Dio screwing Vivian because Dio got screwed before?
Possibly the most articulate hard rock artist I’ve heard speak
Have you ever heard an interview with Jimmy Page? Jon Lord ? Bowie? Robert Plant?
Add Rush
This is awesome and very informative interview. Thank you!!
Craig was writing music with Ronnie before Dream Evil
Really interesting interview and what a stand up guy with his family!
Imagine doing an 8 hour day and then working in dio.
It's crazy that Craig Goldy doesn't quite understand what is copyrightable in music -- It's not a split between melody & lyrics, AND music --- it's Lyrics = 50% --- Music = 50% --- and for the most part - the ONLY MUSIC ELEMENT that is copyrightable IS the MELODY. So it's feasible that a guitar player writing with a singer can find himself UNABLE to claim copyright On ANY component of the song - even riffs and chords which usually are considered part of the arrangement. That's why you should have a clear arrangement when writing with a partner on how you'll share copyright.
I have one writing partner where we split everything down the middle - we both claim 50/50 no matter who brought what to the table. Often I'll produce a whole track - fully arranged and written musically with a melody scat sung for him to write lyrics to..... then we'll tweak the lyrics together - I''ll add a line or make some edits... technically I could claim the whole music portion of the song, and a share of the lyrics (giving me the larger share of the whole) ..... but that kind of arrangement gets in the way of being creative... so we just agree to credit ourselves as "words and music by..." at equal shares and then write great music.
But there's another element here too -- because this copyright for the song has two components to it. There's the royalty paid to the named rights holder (the writer) and the publishing component. That payment is split 50/50..... So when you sign a deal with a music publisher - the publisher gets 50% of any royalty payment the song generates. Smart writers will form their own publishing entity and often will then partner with a traditional publisher to promote of collect these royalties. The argument being with out a publisher your music will get no distribution and 50% of something is worth more than 100% of nothing.... Keeping your publishing (or as much of it as you can) is very important for songwriters.
And yet again none of this speaks to the copyright of the sound recording. Often Artists sign these away when they sign deals with labels. When you hear about "who owns the masters" they are usually talking about this element: Who owns the rights to sell or license the specific sound recording of the song. So to get a label deal, RJD as RJD inc dba "Dio" might have signed a deal with the label where he gets x$, or x% of revenue per sale the songs/album. The "band" doesn't necessarily have any claim to this. If RJD is the one signed to the label, the sound recording is owned by whatever deal RJD made with the label. He might have a side deal with the band - but that side deal can be complicated and it can take a long time for any money to trickle through the hierarchy of who owns what (and all the expenses that have to be covered) before trickling down to "the band" in any kind of profit or revenue share.... that's why RJD's band were on contract as sidemen - and why RJD said that they'd work their way into ownership over the course of three albums.
Thank you Robbie G for the explanation...That is why there is so much fighting amongst musicians in the music biz,
This is why in every band I've ever been in, (Other than preexisting lineups I joined), I've insisted on equal shares for every member, provided they do their part, for as long as they're in the band. If they were lazy and just phoning it in, they were out. One little thing can make or break a song, whether is Roger Waters Scream going in Another Brick in the wall, or the guitar solo for Hotel California. That one little contribution to the larger song could mean everything. To squabble over percentages does nothing but drive a wedge between band members.
That wouldn't work for me. The drummer (for example) shouldn't get songwriting credits unless they write music or lyrics. Drum parts and bass lines can't be copyrighted. Even guitar solos can't be copyrighted. Duane Allman got zero credit for "Layla" (but I think he should have; that guitar riff is iconic & it really sets the "theme" of the song).
Also, Roger Waters wrote "Another Brick in the Wall" by himself.
@@markcheetah4960 I kind of disagree but you're also correct that's why I'm the drummer/led vocals in the band that writes the lyrics. Thanks Neil (R.I.P)
@@fogtooth6824 That's cool, man... Rock ON!!
I play guitar but I'm not very good so I was always on lead vocals (only). But I did write songs by myself; music and lyrics. I couldn't play decent guitar solos, so I'd tell the guitarist to make something up. Bands broke up & I took my songs with me to play in different bands. I'd play tapes and tell the new guitarist "Please don't copy that guy... play your OWN solo there."
Band members are usually pretty cool & the guys I knew never insisted on songwriting credits. You pretty much know if you actually wrote an integral part of a song or not.
Craig is by far the most credible guy to come from the era..
It's really awesome that he takes the time to go in depth with information.
So much respect for Craig.
This is a phenomenal interview. I gotta say after listening to this interview, it really gave me a new appreciation for Craig. He comes off as very down to earth guy and he gave a very fresh new point of view on the Vivian vs Ronnie feud. Thanks for posting
maybe craigs theory falls apart a little - because didnt jimmy and at least vinnie leave not too long after? In any case craig goldy sounds like a decent chap....saw him play in melbourne - he was great player.
Vivian is a joke. Screw him. He woulda been nothing without Dio, but Dio woulda went to the top regardless
The Four F's parenting takeaway : Fun, Fair, Firm, Follow through. 5:50 ish
I've heard Dio's wife was a nightmare, hence the root of a lot of problems back then.