German hard rock legends the SCORPIONS have issued the following statement regarding passing of legendary vocalist RONNIE JAMES DIO (DIO, BLACK SABBATH, HEAVEN & HELL, RAINBOW, ELF) who lost his battle with stomach cancer on Sunday, May 16th at 7:45 AM PST at the age of 67:

The passing of Ronnie James Dio is a huge loss to the world of rock n' roll. He will be missed by millions of fans around the world. He was an amazing artist, lovely human being, and a dear friend. We will miss you Ronnie."

After a triumphant tour kick-off and a gold album from their home country Germany for Sting In The Tail, the Scorpions were honored again: the band received the World Music Award at the Monte Carlo Sporting Club on May 18th, in presence of Prince Albert II of Monaco. Back in 1992 and again in 1994, the band proudly accepted the award for Best International Selling Artist from Germany. However, this time, Klaus Meine (singer), Rudolf Schenker (guitar), Matthias Jabs (guitar), Pawel Maciwoda (bass) and James Kottak (drums) were awarded with the World Music Rock Legend Award for their outstanding contribution to rock music. The show was aired in over 160 countries around the world, including Japan and China. More than 100 million viewers were said to have tuned in.

The event was a logistical challenge for the Scorpions: after performing in front of sold out crowds in Germany and Switzerland, all five members of the band accepted the award, right before they had to depart for a concert in Paris. They will be back to complete the German leg of their Get Your Sting and Blackout Farewell World Tour on May 29, where they will rock the Capitol city Berlin. Next stops after that: Greece, USA, Canada, the world! Check out the latest tour dates here.