"Dimebag" Darrell Abbott
- Dan Mitchell
- Aug 1, 2020
- 1 min read
Updated: May 4
Darrell Lance Abbott was born on August 20th, 1966, in Ennis, Texas. His father, Jerry Abbott, was a musician and producer, and his older brother Vincent “Vinnie Paul” Abbott would later become one of metal’s most recognisable drummers.
Darrell began playing guitar at a young age, winning his first competition at just 14 years old. His nickname, “Dimebag,” would become legendary, while Vincent adopted the name “Vinnie Paul.”
Together, the brothers formed Pantera, a band that evolved from glam beginnings into one of the most influential metal acts of all time. Across nine albums, Dimebag’s distinctive tone, groove‑driven riffs, and wild solos helped redefine heavy music. He also contributed guitar parts to songs by other artists, including Nickelback, Sebastian Bach, and more.
After Pantera disbanded, the Abbott brothers created a new metal project, Damageplan.
On December 8th, 2004, shortly after Damageplan began their set in Columbus, Ohio, a man named Nathan Gale rushed the stage and shot Dimebag multiple times, killing him. In total, Gale killed five people and injured three others before being shot by police at the scene.
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