Craig Gruber American bass guitarist Date of Birth: 22.06.1951 Country: USA

1. Craig Gruber: A Renowned Bassist in the Rock World
2. Black Sabbath
3. Bible Black, Gary Moore, and The Rods
4. Legacy and Passing

Craig Gruber: A Renowned Bassist in the Rock World

Craig Gruber began his illustrious musical career in 1973 when he joined the band Elf as their bassist. Upon Ronnie James Dio's decision to focus solely on vocals, Gruber was invited to fill the vacant spot. During his tenure with Elf, he contributed to two albums before the band disbanded in 1975.

Gruber's involvement in Elf also paved the way for his association with Rainbow, a band founded by Ritchie Blackmore. Gruber participated in Rainbow's early performances, bolstering Blackmore's resolve to leave Deep Purple. The original Rainbow lineup, including Gruber, recorded one album, "Ritchie Blackmore's Rainbow." However, Blackmore's dissatisfaction with the album led to the departure of all members except Dio before its release in August 1975.

Black Sabbath

In the late 1970s, Black Sabbath underwent significant lineup changes. After Ozzy Osbourne's departure, Gruber briefly rehearsed with Rainbow but was not chosen as their bassist. In 1979, as the band worked on their album "Heaven and Hell," they considered Gruber as a potential replacement for Geezer Butler, who had temporarily left. However, Butler returned to the band before any recordings were made with Gruber.

Bible Black, Gary Moore, and The Rods

In the early 1980s, Gruber and Elf drummer Mickey Lee Soule co-founded Bible Black, which also included Jeff Fenholt and Andrew MacDonald. The band released two albums.

Gruber went on to play bass for Gary Moore in 1983-1984. He joined Moore's band during the recording of their album and toured with them until being replaced by Bob Daisley.

In 1986, Gruber joined The Rods, a band formed by another former Elf member, David Feinstein. He played bass on their album "Heavier Than Thou" before the band解散in 1987.

Legacy and Passing

Craig Gruber passed away on May 6, 2015, in Jacksonville, Florida, after a battle with prostate cancer. His contributions as a bassist in legendary bands such as Elf, Rainbow, and Black Sabbath left a lasting impact on the rock music world.