Arlington: ‘Dimebag’ Darrell Abbott gravesite

‘Dimebag’ Darrell Abbott was an influential American guitarist best known as a founding member of the heavy metal bands Pantera and Damageplan. Born on August 20, 1966, in Arlington, he became one of the most iconic guitarists in the heavy metal genre, renowned for his powerful riffs, innovative playing style, and distinctive tone.

Career Highlights of Dimebag Darrell Abbott:

Pantera:

• Dimebag Darrell formed Pantera in the early 1980s with his brother, Vinnie Paul (drums), and bassist Rex Brown. The band initially played glam metal but later shifted to a more aggressive groove metal sound that defined their success.
• Pantera gained massive popularity in the 1990s, with albums like Cowboys from Hell (1990), Vulgar Display of Power (1992), and Far Beyond Driven (1994). Dimebag’s guitar work was central to the band’s heavy, yet groovy, sound.

Damageplan:

• After Pantera disbanded in 2003 due to internal conflicts, Dimebag and Vinnie Paul formed Damageplan. The band released their debut album, New Found Power, in 2004.

Tragic Death:

• On December 8, 2004, during a Damageplan concert in Columbus, Ohio, Dimebag Darrell was tragically shot and killed on stage by a deranged fan. His death was a significant loss to the metal community, and he is remembered as one of the greatest guitarists of all time.

Legacy:

• Dimebag Darrell’s influence on heavy metal is profound, with his aggressive guitar style and innovative techniques inspiring countless musicians. His signature guitar, the Dean ML, and his use of “dimebag” tuning (a variant of drop tuning) are iconic elements of his legacy.
• He was buried at Moore Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Arlington. He is buried along with his brother and bandmate Vinnie Paul, and his father, country songwriter and record producer Jerry Abbott.