Newsbites: Drink with Dio

Dio fans now have the opportunity to drink from a pint glass adorned with the iconic singer’s image and logo. It’s the latest product from Rock’n'Roll By The Pint, the brainchild of photographer Gene Kirkland. His outfit says: “This is his own unique way of blending the two arts to create a pint glass that can be displayed proudly either in your hand or on your shelf. If you appreciate music, photography or collectibles, these unique creations cover all the bases.” Find out more.

Robert Fripp has given up his musical career in order to concentrate on his legal battle against Universal Music Group, which he accuses of illegally selling parts of his back-catalogue. The King Crimson mainman describes his musical pursuits as “an exercise in futility” and says: “I couldn’t concentrate on music, so I made the choice to give up my career as a musician in the frontline to deal with the business.” [Prog Magazine]

Green Day were forced to cancel a show in Italy at the weekend after frontman Billie Joe Armstrong was rushed to hospital with an unspecified illness. Bandmates Mike Dirnt and Tre Cool apologised via a video message, in which bassist Dirnt said: “The doctors don’t think it’s a good idea for him to play. This sucks. We were really looking forward to playing in Bologna.”

Greg Rolie wants to stop discussing a Santana reunion and make it happen instead. He says: “It’s just a matter of putting it together and going and doing it. We’ve talked about it a number of times but it never comes to fruition. I think it’s a great idea – people would love it.”

A heavy metal musician was murdered in the Dominican Republic at the weekend as a result of mistaken identity. Three men aged between 24 and 28 attacked 23-year-old Jose Carlos Hernandez, drummer with Exsanguination Throne, stabbing him more than 27 times. One of the suspects told police they thought Hernandez had raped a female friend of theirs.

Glenn Hughes has dedicated upcoming Black Country Communion album Afterglow to supporters who saw him through the challenges of his recent years. He says: “Afterglow is a proud moment in my 43 year career. It was a life and death experience for me. This one is for rock fans who have given me hope.”

Michael Monroe is set to begin work on a new record soon. Guitarist Dregen reports he’s “getting ready to record the album” and he’s also “writing and putting the last bits together for my solo album.” He adds: “2013 will be a great year, I tell you!”

Megadeth mainman Dave Mustaine has thanked fans in Bogota for blowing him away with their support. He says: “The most amazing thing I have ever seen in my life happened during the performance: the audience had organised among themselves that, during the song Countdown to Extinction, they would all hold up a paper sign of the old man from the record cover. Christmas came early for this kid!”