Metal Sludge The Power and the Glory
REMEMBERING DIMEBAG
The following statements related to the untimely death of "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott were collected from various Web sites, message boards, and official press releases, along with several e-mails sent to us.
Atlantic Records:
"We are shocked and saddened by last night’s horrible and senseless shootings. This is a tragic day for the music community, and our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims, their families, and the surviving members of Damageplan and their crew. Dimebag Darrell was an exceptional musician and an extraordinary person. Along with his brother and bandmate, Vinnie Paul, he was a member of the Elektra/Atlantic family for the past 14 years, and he will be deeply missed. The bravery displayed by Damageplan, their crew, their fans, and the local police will never be forgotten."
Vinnie Paul:
"With all his greatness and accomplishments on the guitar, Dime will be missed more for his giving personality, charisma, caring for others, love and most of all his HEART!! Twice as big as the state of TEXAS!!!!!!!!!!!! Dime gave it all every day to each and every one of us and our lives have forever been hollowed without him…Thanks to all of you for reaching out to us in this time of our immeasurable loss. REST IN PEACE BROTHER DIME!!!!!"
Rob Halford, Judas Priest:
"Hello everyone. My deepest condolences go out to everyone affected regarding the passing of dimebag. His mucianship was superb and his original style was and will remain an inspiration to players worldwide. His friendship can never be replaced.
"I first met Dime in 1991. I was in Toronto preparing for the ‘Painkiller’ tour. I had MuchMusic TV on and saw this guy talking about metal and wearing a ‘British Steel’ shirt. From what he was saying and the Pantera video that aired I knew right away that this man was a guitar god!
"I called MuchMusic and spoke to Dime and that night went to a club and hung with the band. We jammed ‘Metal Gods’. From that point on, he and the rest of the band became solid friends. My gut feeling was that this band would be huge.
"So Pantera toured with Priest all over Europe. Many a night I would stand off stage and watch them tear up city after city leaving everyone stunned by their intense performances. It was a thrill to watch and hear Dime invent and advance with his playing. Soon the world became Panterarised!
"Of course, so much has happened since those early times and I feel that it’s important now that however we take the turn of events in recent years we all stay true to the same belief that Dimebag had about his love of metal, which was to play your heart out and be real wherever you are! Some things that happen in life make no sense at all, but out of pain comes strength, and I know the metal community will take that strength and use it as an enduring memory for Dimebag.
"Love never dies."
Tim "Ripper" Owens, ex-Judas Priest, Iced Earth:
"Hey, wanted to say that Dime was a great guy and amazing guitarist! He will really be missed! He made me laugh when he would see me backstage and sing out ‘Ripper’ in a high note with some melody he had made up! He and his brother always gave me respect. I knew how much of a fan he was of Judas Priest and Rob [Halford], so the respect meant a lot! And all the rumors about him and I working together where the best rumors I’d ever heard about me! I always wanted to work with Darrell and was always waiting for that phone call! Dimebag, we love ya bro and you will be missed!"
Ozzy Osbourne:
"Dimebag was a dear friend of mine. I’m absolutely beside myself with grief. I can’t for the life of me understand why someone would do this. Pantera toured with me many, many times. I’ll always remember the signed guitar that he gave me at my 50th birthday party. My heart goes out to Dime’s family, his fans and the other innocent victims who were killed in this senseless tragedy. It’s just terribly, terribly sad."
Zakk Wylde, Black Label Society/Ozzy Osbourne:
"He was beyond beautiful. When he’d walk in the room, he’d light it up. Fuck the guitar playing ? he’s right up there with Eddie and Randy and Hendrix. All he wanted to do was make everyone happy. He was the ray of sunshine. Dime will never die ever ? he’s in my veins. He’s sitting at God’s tavern, having a cold one with Randy Rhoads and Hendrix. Dime was an original."
Tony Iommi, Black Sabbath:
"I was absolutely shocked by the news. Dimebag was such a really nice genuine bloke and a great player. He was always very respectful towards me and it was lovely to have him on tour with us. He will be sadly missed."
Paul Stanley, KISS:
"I’m stunned. The taking of Dimebag Darrell’s life in this horrific murder is a senseless tragedy for his fans and unfathomable loss for his family. I send my deepest condolences to Vinnie and the rest of his family. My thoughts are also with the families of all the other victims of this heinous act."
Gene Simmons, KISS:
"Sad to report ‘Dimebag’ Darrell Abbott, formerly of Pantera, has been killed in a club incident. Our best wishes to his family and friends."
Lars Ulrich, Metallica:
"This is unbelievable. To sit here and talk about Darrell in the past tense seems so wrong, so unfair, so unjust, I don’t even know what to say. My heart goes out to Vinnie, to their families, to the other band members, and to the families and friends of the other people that were killed or injured, in this fucking senseless act of selfishness and stupidity.
"In 1985 I was fortunate enough to meet both Darrell and his brother in Dallas on tour. The first thing me and my friend did as soon as that tour was over, was to head straight back to Dallas and hang out with Darrell and Vinnie for a long time, cuz they were the coolest mutherfuckers that we had met after criss-crossing the states for three months. That was the beginning of a friendship that was anchored in love, respect, fun, outrageousness, music, booze, sweat, late nights, early mornings, hangovers, headaches, pounding eardrums, sore bodies… the list goes on.
"There’s a tendency in these fucked up moments to use the word ‘I’ a lot and focus on one’s own feelings of pity and shock… so instead let it just be known that thru these eyes Darrell was incredibly warm, open, fun, nutty, forthcoming, talented, embracing, unpretentious, accommodating and he always had a very attractive innocence about him that obviously made him never threatening and always welcoming.
"Darrell and his brother were the cornerstone of musical adventures that were always groundbreaking, pushing boundaries, challenging to themselves and to their fans, respected by their peers and always true musicians’ musicians, and today the rock world is worse off because of this untimely and senseless waste.
"Much love and respect and thanks for letting me be a small part of your life and I know you are already having fun and throwing it down with Bon Scott, Keith Moon, John Bonham, Jimi, Cliff B., and the rest of the musicians and troublemakers that you are hanging with so prematurely."
Scott Ian, Anthrax:
"After Eddie Van Halen, you had Dimebag Darrell. He was the next guy that came along and did something as original and important on guitar.
"He’s the type of guy that would do anything for his friends. He really did put his family and his friends first, and for him everyone was his family. Once you came into contact with Dimebag and became friends with that guy, it was a sacred bond. Once you shared drinks with that guy, you became a part of his extended family."
"He was larger than life. He used to call me ‘the action figure’ because of how I move around onstage, and I used to tell him he stepped right out of a comic book. He was just so full of energy and such a strong presence. [As a musician], he had everything ? just his originality, the riffs he wrote, his tone and what he did with his guitar. He didn’t sound like anybody before him, and nobody could come close to duplicating what he did. That’s the best thing you could say about any musician . . . I’m still kind of stunned. It’s hard for me to believe that this is how his life ended. I don’t know if I’m ready to accept the fact that I’m not gonna go to see him play live and have him obnoxiously shoving drinks down my throat."
Charlie Benante, Anthrax:
"WHY??????
"Dimebag brought the life out of everyone he met, why would anyone take his????
"My phone has been ringing off the hook, everyone asking if it was true?
"I didn’t want to accept the reality, HOW COULD DARRELL BE GONE?
"I just saw him! and just listened to the message he left me today.
"I loved him, he was a true friend. The phone calls in the middle of the night, talking about this and that. Playing KING’S X or KISS licks over the phone. I remember this one time we were both going through these anxiety attacks. I never had them, nor did he. We were talking about how we stopped them. I quit drinking alcohol and coffee and he said that he started drinking MORE ALCOHOL! HAHAHA, that was him. I had some great times with him, he always put you in a good mood, DAMMIT! What the fuck is wrong with people?? How the fuck does someone get into a club with a loaded gun, HOW?? WHY??
"I thought for a minute about this ? John Lennon was murdered the same way on the same DAY, some strange coincidence? (sorry, I’m delirious right now)
"This guy didn’t wait till after the show, he did it on stage. How fucking horrific. All those people freaking out, watching this happen. This will change things for the music world. It won’t be the same vibe at shows… this is scary.
"Dime was special, those who knew him would attest to that….
"My heart goes out to Vinnie and Rita as well as the others who were injured.
"Go play your Pantera CDs or your Damageplan CD.
"Remember him for his music and his guitar playing, he was the best!
"I love you bro’, I’ll miss your face.
"Give him a double. Whewwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww
"Cryin’ and sobbin’."
Neil Turbin, ex-Anthrax:
"When Dime came on the scene with Pantera, he changed the way heavy metal guitar was played. Noticeably more bone crunching and powerful. Now that he has left the stage, it is no longer a sacred ground to witness the sanctity of metal without the fear of bodily harm (other than getting hurt in a slampit).
"I am saddened, sickened and outraged by this cowardly act. This is a crime against all metalheads and music fans alike. Metal shows are supposed to be fun and Darrell was one of those who made it a lot of fun to go out to see live music. What a tragic end to a brilliant career and a great loss to everyone.
"Darrell was metal’s finest, a warm person who would treat you like a bro, a brother, son, friend, and one of the true great guitar legends of all time.
"You have much love, support and will be sorely missed by the entire metal community. This is without a doubt the saddest day in metal. You will always be remembered.
"My deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the families of all the victims, Vinnie Paul, Rita, the Abbotts, Patrick Lachman, Bobzilla, the tour manager and drum tech, crew, and all of the Damageplan and Pantera fans and extended family to get through these dark and difficult times.
"Darrell, thanks for the great music, killer riffs, and inspiration you have given me and so many others to plug in and play it loud!
"Salute! And much respect."
Paul Crook, Meatloaf/Sebastian Bach/ex-Anthrax:
"Dimebag, My friend, my hero. You played your guitar to the last second of your amazing and beautiful life. I love you."
Brian May, Queen:
"We are all gutted to hear of the senseless and tragic death of Dimbag Darrell, who was shot by a ‘fan’ who climbed on the stage at a show of his new band, Damageplan. He was of course better known for his great playing in Pantera. Pantera were, I think, the first band that I and my son Jimmy both got equally excited about. It was Jimmy who first got me to see them. They were a great band, and Dimebag was an innovative and passionate player.
"Great musician. Terrible loss. My respects to him, to his family and friends. Also to those who were killed trying to save him and apprehend the gunman.
"RIP."
Dave Mustaine, Megadeth:
"There is nothing unique or clever to this post, and what I want to say has no doubt already been said throughout the metal community, by countless others whom were more closer to Darrell than me by now.
"However, knowing he was murdered tonight, I wish to thank and remember Darrell for his amazing life and the gift that he shared with me and so many other fortunates.
"I pray for Darrell’s family and friends; specifically for their healing, their peace, and their understanding of this tragedy in this time of need.
"I send my deepest heartfelt condolences to the Abbott family, to Darrell’s friends, and to the fantastic Pantera and Damageplan fans around the world.
"We must never forget his life, and his gifts, his genius, his terrific personallity, and the legacy he left behind to remember him by.
"Darrell, I will see you in heaven and I, like so many more, love you brother.
"You will be missed."
Dave Ellefson, F5/ex-Megadeth:
"Like most of you I couldn’t believe my eyes and ears when I woke up and heard the tragic news of Dime’s passing and the travesty at the Damageplan show in Columbus, Ohio. It is purely beyond belief yet so staggeringly real. I just recently hung out with him and the Damageplan entourage a couple weeks ago when they passed through Phoenix, AZ and as usual they were the coolest.
"I first met Dime in 1987 while in a Dallas, TX watering hole where I was introduced to this up-and-coming new band named called Pantera. Dime was a regional guitar hero who went under the name ‘Diamond Darrell’ and his band was making some big waves in Texas. That night Darrell raved to me about how Megadeth’s ‘Peace Sells But Who’s Buying’ album forever changed his life. The next night Pantera played a nearby club and they invited me on stage to jam ‘Peace Sells’ with them, which was kick-ass! They certainly knew their metal, alright.
"A bond was formed between me and the band which as the years passed was always like seeing good friends again. In fact, I remember calling Darrell years ago asking him if he would join Megadeth as we were regrouping before ‘Rust In Peace’. However, as cool of a musical fit as that might have been, there was no way anyone could split up the brotherly onslaught of him and Vinnie Paul, nor would you want to!
"Years later Pantera played often with Megadeth but I specifically remember a funny incident when we did a show together in Hamburg Germany in the red light district known as the Reeperbahn. Dime’s tour tradition was to get a tattoo in honor of his favorite bands he toured with. Right before the show, he walked into the club and showed us his brand new black-and-white tattoo on his lower leg of a black tooth grin.
"We were like, ‘No fucking way, that’s insane!’ to which he replied, ‘Yeah dad, Black Tooth Grin, just like in ‘Sweating Bullets’.’ Funny thing is I’ve seen other people get that same tattoo over the years, all in honor of Dime, and it always brings a grin to my face remembering how nuts he was to go out and get a tattoo in that part of town in our honor!
"In closing, Dime truly lived, breathed and played metal like no other guitar slinger out there. My condolences go out to everyone in his family, the Damageplan camp and those related to the victims at the show. This incident has forever scarred heavy metal but our memories will live forever of the legend we’ve come to know in our brother Dimebag Darrell."
Marty Friedman, ex-Megadeth:
"I knew Darrell from months of touring together. He was a great guitar player, actually much better than was probably necessary to play the kind of music he was playing. Although his image was a wild partying maniac, his playing always was full of class and finesse. As a fellow guitar player, KISS fanatic and basic rock dude just tryin’ to make music, I’m sad and shocked by this.
"Why is it so easy for any lunatic to get his hands on a gun??
"RIP, Dime, you will be missed…"
Shawn Drover, Megadeth:
"I get a phone-call at 2 o’clock in the morning from Dave Mustaine, at which I could barely hear him from his very soft-spoken monotone voice. I knew immediately something was wrong ? there was. The conversation that transpired was completely unfathomable to me!!!! Among the millions of thoughts racing through my mind, ‘WHY’ seemed the most prominent question to ask, and still is!!! Musicians possess a special gift ? providing music for people to ENJOY. It harnesses and evokes so many different emotions for people to grasp ? happiness, aggression, sadness, whatever the case, in the end it is to entertain the listener, which is a possitive thing. How something this tragic could possibly happen has left all of us at a complete loss. (I usually do not speak for others, but I think it’s justified here)
"My love for Pantera has run deep since ‘Cowboys from Hell’ was first released. What has always remained in my memory is that Pantera was about playing heavy metal, despite what trend was popular at the time. It was always about the ‘MUSIC’ for those dudes, which to me means everything and is the exact same thought process I apply to music as well.
"This is just completely tragic…"
Nikki Sixx:
"Dime, I will never forget all the times you made us laugh. I’m so happy we got to spend the day together in London recently? We should all live our lives as full as you have. I will miss you, as will all of us… This is a sad day."
Tracii Guns:
"We have lost the last true pioneer of our metal generation.
"This guy did not have formulas or bullshit.
"Dime played and wrote from his soul, he also treated his friends as if they were his blood brothers.
"This summer I presented him with the Guitarist Of The Year award at Metal Hammer Awards ceremony in London.
"We got shitfaced, laughed our asses off and had a grteat time as we always did when we hung out.
"The rock world has suffered a devastating blow with the loss of Dimebag.
"I wish his family and fans all the best from my heart."
Rikki Rockett, Poison:
"We’ll be searching for something good to come out of all this travesty for a long time to come and we’ll NEVER find it!
"I didn’t know Dimebag, but I know Vinnie fairly well. I had met Dimebag a few times, but I always hung with Vinnie for some reason. Drummer thing, maybe.
"If he was anything like Vinnie, he was a good fuckin’ guy. Not that it really matters, this is fuckin’ murder! He was simply trying to entertain his fans.
"He certainly was a gifted guy and I can’t imagine what in the hell would possess a person to do this to him or anyone else for that matter."
Kip Winger:
"Dimebag was my brother … he saved me once in Japan when I was as low as can be.
"He was one of the most wise people I’ve ever met. I consider him a Saint.
"I will pray for him and his family … and the rest who died …"
Kevin Dubrow, Quiet Riot:
"I did not know Darrell as well as many others but well enough to know that he was a really, really nice person in a business full of phonies.
"Darrell and Vinnie came to most of the Quiet Riot shows in Dallas and used to rent a limo and come to some of our other shows in Texas.
"Darrell was always wanting everyone to come with them and hang out. He was a real fun-loving type of person, as is Vinnie.
"My condolences go out to Darrell’s family and to Vinnie in particular. This was senseless and frightening. We have played this club many times and unlike the Rhode Island club it is one of the few remaining good rock clubs. The owner Rick Kate was always a gentlemen to us.
"Darrell was a Randy Rhoads fan and we spoke about it a couple times. What a waste. He will be missed."
(Thanks: Glam-Metal.com)
Frankie Banali, Quiet Riot:
"This is so wrong. Darrel was one of the nicest people in music and a great guitarist. He was always great to me each time we saw each other, as was Vinnie. Such a waste and so disturbing. My thoughts and prayers are with Darrel and my sincerest sympathy to Darrel’s family, loved ones and all of his fans and the fans of Pantera and Damageplan. No one deserves a violent death, and certainly not Darrel. God bless him."
Juan Croucier, ex-Ratt:
"Ironically, I learned today that Darrell was a big Ratt fan. What a thing to learn on a day like today. I had heard the rumor before but it was confirmed to me by Warren De Martini. Warren and Darrell were friends. He had nothing but wonderful things to say about Darrell and as you can imagine, was greatly saddened by this senseless tragedy.
"Dimebag Darrell, was an awesome guitar player, Pantera and Damageplan were great, great bands! I remember hearing Pantera for the first time back in the early 90s and thinking to myself man, this band is over the top. Very intense. I loved it. It was also my brother Rick’s favorite band.
"Darrell, brought something new to the hard rock/metal game. He was not only a great guitar player/song writer but he changed the rock music world with his style and approach. Hard rock/metal will never be the same. His contribution to music will live on in all of us who loved his work.
"My thoughts, condolences and prayers go out to his brother Vinnie, his family, friends and Pantera/Damageplan fans as well as the other folks that were senselessly murdered.
"Life is so precious, everyone matters. Unfortunately, we live in a world where senseless and insane acts of violence can and do happen without warning.
"Yeah, I learned today that Darrell was a big Ratt fan… Well, I am a big Pantera/Damageplan/Dimebag Darrell fan! And always will be.
"God bless him."
Carmine Appice, ex-King Kobra, Blue Murder, Ozzy Osbourne, Vanilla Fudge, etc.:
"I cannot believe this happened. I am very sad at this. It is scarey too. People should not be so outraged at the fact a band broke up and to kill people about it. Stupid and careless. I am shocked at this, my heart feelings go out to the families of everyone who died last night at this club…"
Don Airey, Deep Purple:
"Deeply shocked by what has happened. I saw Pantera play a few years ago at Wolverhampton Civic. They were brilliant, and Darrell a master of his art. Met them briefly afterwards, and they were charming humorous and low key. One memory of the evening is of a lone punter jumping on stage during the encore, then not having the courage to dive off. Most bands would have the road crew throw him out, but Darrell went up to him, patted him on the head, gave him a beer, and the guy cheerfully sat out the rest of the number on the drum riser. The man will be missed. My sympathies to the family, particularly Vinnie."
Billy Sheehan:
"This SUCKS!! I’m so pissed. Dimebag was always a good guy to me ? I met him out & about in L.A. a few times. Very sad to lose him. Great player, too. This is a catastrophe."
Lemmy, Motörhead:
"To Vinnie & all concerned: Man, I am so fuckin sorry. You know I loved Dimebag and I’m about as sorry as you can get. Glad you’re OK though. If there’s anything you need help with, you got my number somewhere, OK.
"Thinking of you."
Phil Campbell, Motörhead:
"I’m so sorry, we’ll dedicate the set to Dimebag tonight."
Mikkey Dee, Motörhead:
"My deepest sympathy to everyone affected by this tragedy."
Wednesday 13:
"It’s 3:31 am here, early Saturday morning in the bible belt of North Carolina. I’m still in shock from the ‘Dimebag’ story this week. I honestly did not believe it at first. I didn’t know him personally, but to say I wasn’t touched by his band and style would be lying. This is the most bizarre thing I’ve ever heard of. It’s a sad week for us all in the music world, and all I can ask is why????
"I raise a toast in the memory of the fallen…"
Stevie Rachelle, Tuff:
"What could I say that hasn’t been said already. Pantera was the next level of Metal and crushed everything in their site. I heard of them before the Phil era from a Dj named MadMaxHammer when I visited Z-Rock in Dallas. Years later at a industry event in LA Dimebag walks up to me and says: "Hey, you’re that Tuff guy with the fist ring right?" I said "Yeah. Cool necklace!" He was wearing the British Steel razor blade logo. We shook hands and went our seperate ways. Ironically our seperate ways both landed us on Atlantic Records.
"That was my one meeting with Darrell, but I feel as if though we shared a lot in common. We both loved heavy metal, football, girls and were living our life with music at the center of it. In recent days I’ve talked to so many guys who said the same things about him. It’s fact that Darrell treated everyone as an equal.. He didn’t care if you were rock, metal, glam, country, from Hollywood or Iowa. He respected you. He was genuine.
"The challenge dealt to Vinnie, his family, and all of Darrells friends (countless), along with the other victims of this cowards actions is beyond words. The music community that we have all become a part of is real, and it is fragile.
"I’ll say these words in his memory: ‘Good Guys Wear Black.’"
Don Dokken:
"A lot of people, they didn’t know Darrell, they didn’t know his brother. Those guys, as aggressive as their music was, they were a really hard core band, we used to always laugh about it, because the last time we played Texas they’d come see us. We were like antithesis to what they’re not. For Dokken, we’re more of a melodic rock band. But we were one of the first bands they played with when they got started, when they were still kind of like a Van Halen band. And they’d always invited us to their club, and they’d always come down and say, ‘We dig you guys, we dig your music.’ They’re just nice people. Nice guys, man. It’s just not fair."
Darrell DWaRf Millar, Killer Dwarfs:
"A senseless and tragic event has happened in the world of Rock & Roll. This scribe has often wondered when some physco would have the balls and mentalness to actually mount a stage and murder band members. Now it has happened. The world surely has gone berserk. Dimebag Darrell and his brother Vinnie are 1st class and talented guys. DWaRfs were lucky enough to tour with Pantera and Skid Row in 1994. Had many a drinks with Dimebag one day on the patio of the Hardrock Cafe in downtown Toronto a summer later. He got me so f%&cked up on Dimebag Darrell specials, which were actually straight Crown Royal and a splash of coke, that I pulled my shorts off on Yonge Street and yelled arrest me. Fun time. Damn this is insane. See ya on the other side DB!!"
Scott Rockenfield, Queensr?che:
"I did not know Dimebag Darrell personally, but this is a great tragedy for the entire music community. Concerts are meant to be a place of fun and safety, and this will stay on all of our minds for many years. Darrell will be missed…"
Eddie Ojeda, Twisted Sister:
"I just heard about it. It really sucks that something like that can happen. I’m so shocked by this unnecessary act of violence that I can’t really put it in to words. My deepest sympathy goes out to Dimebag and his family."
Bam Bam McConnell, ex-Sebastian Bach/Madam X:
Any of you that know me well enough, knows I have been friends with Dimebag, and Vinnie Paul since the late 80’s. I have performed with Dimebag in NY, and Pantera had us open for them in Arenas in ’98 with them and Anthrax, and treated us like Gold!!!!!! I am numb right now. I’m sick to my stomach. I have played the Alrosa Villa 6-7 times. WHY???????????????????????? What the FUCK is going on here? I really am sick…This is crazy!!!!!!!!!!!!!! FUCKIN’ God Bless Dime, Vinnie, and the others who died at the the hands of this IDIOT.
Jonas Björler, The Haunted:
"We just got back from the U.S. tour with Damageplan, and we’re all in shock right now. I can’t fucking believe what has happened. Dimebag and the rest of the guys were really cool people, and this is the worst display of cowardice I’ve ever experienced. R.I.P. Dime ? we’ll never forget"
Fred Durst, Limp Bizkit:
"Last night was the 9/11 for metal to me and the metal community. Not only did Pantera inspire me to have the courage to express myself they were also one of my main motivations to form Limp Bizkit. I am sad beyond comprehension. I mourn for the loved ones of dimebag and the others murdered. a living legend has been taken from us. life has permanantly changed for me as of last night. I believe everything happens for a reason and in no way do I understand the reason for this. I will be forever in his debt. RIP Dimebag."
Wes Borland, Limp Bizkit:
"We were playing a show in Texas a few years ago and I saw this sweaty, super long-haired, big-bearded, Dimebag Darrell-looking guy come over the barricade right in front of me. ‘Holy crap,’ I thought, "That IS Dimebag Darrell!!!’ I had only met him once before, but I had grown up on Pantera and was a little star-struck by his presence. He was smiling and looking up at me and jamming out to whatever song we were playing at the moment. The security in the barricade were getting ready to shoo him out from in front of the stage with everyone else, but I stopped them from ushering him out and I stopped playing guitar and I shook his hand. He hung out right in front of me for about four more songs. I couldn’t believe it. He was a hero to so many of us. I’m glad I got to have that moment with him. I’ll never forget it."
Jonathan Davis, Korn:
"Darrell and Pantera were one of the main reasons I joined a metal band. This is a tragic loss for the music community and to all who knew him. Korn is truly shaken and we want to send our deepest condolences to the families of the deceased."
Rob Zombie:
"I don’t know exactly what to write concerning the death of Darrell. This is beyond shocking and horrible. I still can’t believe it is true. I got the call from my manager Andy Gould, who, along with Walter O’Brien, used to manage Pantera and White Zombie.
"During the early ninties White Zombie and Pantera were constant touring partners and I had the pleasure of watching Darrell perform with Pantera easily over a hundred times. For those of you who never saw him, he was without a doubt the most dynamic guitartist on the face of the planet. He was truly one of a kind. A legend.
"Off stage, he was a cool, down-to-earth guy with the most bizarre sense of humor ever, half the time I didn’t even understand what the hell he was saying. He spoke a language all his own ? Dimespeak.
"The last time I saw Darrell was with his brother Vinnie standing in the crowd rocking out at a Metallica show. I never got a chance to see his new band, but I’m sure he was as amazing as always.
"No one can replace a giant talent like Darrell, he will be missed.
"My heart goes out to Phil, Rex and especially Vinnie."
Rob "Blasko" Nicholson, ex-Rob Zombie/Ozzy Osbourne:
"I’m speechless. This is totally unreal. Dimebag is a fucking legend and this is total bullshit."
Pepper Keenan, Corrosion of Conformity:
"It’s tragic, a shame. I’ve known Darrell for years and years. He was a big fan of COC, we toured Australia together with PANTERA. It’s just a shame."
Howard Jones, Killswitch Engage:
"This is insane and this is beyond travesty. This is beyond anything I’ve ever heard. This shouldn’t happen in or outside of the rock and metal community. He will be missed and mourned as a person, as a musician, and as a friend."
Billy Milano, M.O.D.:
"I can’t express in words the sorrow I feel inside, not just for me but also for Vinnie, Rita, Darrel’s parents his bandmates and friends.
"What I can express is how wonderful a person he truly was. Kind and gentle in nature, care-free and loving.
"I’m a lucky person to have known [Darrell] as a friend. I want to spend this time remembering him in this spirit rather than dwelling on how he was taken from us or the person who did it.
"My heart bleeds for his loved ones."
Will Boyd, Evanescence:
"I love music. It’s probably the most important thing in my life, as most of you know, but I don’t care what band you are obsessed with, what they mean to you; if you fucking go into a club and shoot someone in the head four times just because you like the band they were in and you think you know something about why they broke up and decide to place blame, you are fucking sick and need help.
"I don’t pretend to be the biggest Pantera fan ever, but I have most of their records and Dime was one of the most creative guitar players I’ve ever heard. MORE IMPORTANTLY, I know a ton of people who worked alongside him and got to know him as a friend and a genuinely good dude over the years. I was with most of these people seconds after they heard the news and you can’t imagine the grief it placed upon them. Seeing your friends want to just fucking punch the wall because they are so angry and so sad and so scared all at the same time is something that can change you. The only word that comes to mind is senseless.
"Please keep Darrell’s family and the family of their tour manager who was shot in the chest in your thoughts."
John LeCompt, Evanescence:
"The world is a sadder place without your music and your genuine nature. Pantera rocked my life. Though I never met you, I will truly miss you. Rest in peace, Dime."
Drowning Pool:
"No one knows why some people do the heinous things they do. What we do know is that once again, we leave tour to bury friends, brothers, and family. Dimebag Darrell was the epitome of Rock and Roll. He wasn’t just a player that all guitarists aspired to be…but the genuine article and a true friend. Darrell inspired our lives and how we carried ourselves not just as musicians out on the road but also as friends in everyday life. Stevie, CJ, Jason, myself, and especially Dave could not be prouder to be called his friend and family.
"Jeff Thompson, known to his friends as ‘Mayhem’ was the biggest friend that a man could have or know. Mayhem has been a big part of both Damage Plan and Drowning Pool. We will sorely miss him and all of his nearly seven feet of glory adorned in a kilt.
"In closing, we would like to send our thoughts and prayers to the Abbott and Thompson families and friends, and the crew of Damage Plan."
Mike Mushok, Staind:
"I can’t believe the news I got last night. Jon called me telling me that Dimebag was shot at a club while they were performing. I couldn’t believe it then and I still can’t. On behalf of myself and the band I’d like to send our deepest sympathy to Dime’s family. What a loss.
"I was lucky enough to be able to hang with Dime on a few occasions and he was a man that loved life and lived it to the fullest. He was an incredible guitar player / musician / human being ? a legend who will live on in the awesome music that he made.
"Pour yourself a shot of crown, add a splash of coke and raise your glass in Dime’s memory. You’ll be missed."
Shaun Glass, Soil:
"Today I am saddened to say I lost my friend and hero it sickens me that someone would take away a person that brought so much joy to so many people. Love ya, Double D."
Marten Andersson, Starwood/Lizzy Borden:
"I am devastated to hear that something like this can happen. Unfortunately I never got the opportunity to become friends with Dimebag but I will always remember him for his talent, his gift of music. There is so many bands out there that would not be where they are if it wasn’t for this man and his talent. He will forever have a place in the history of metal and in so many people’s hearts. I think most have been said in the metal community, we are a strong bunch and stick together when something horrible like this happens. I want to give my deepest sympathy and condolences to his family, friends and his hardcore fans (me included) for your loss. My thoughts are with you all. In due time the pain will give way to great memories of Dimebag. Rest in peace."
Abe Cunningham, drummer, Deftones:
"We had the pleasure of touring three times with Pantera. They treated us so well on the road. We had some great times hanging out with them. They treated us with open arms, especially the brothers. Darrell lived the music. We feel terrible, and our hearts go out to his family, brother and father. He was a legend in this business, and an unbelievable musician. He will be missed by all."
Gary Holt, Exodus:
"I am, for the first time in my life, at a loss for words. The terrible reality of last night’s tragedy is starting to sink in, and I am in a deep state of mourning over the loss of one of my personal guitar heroes, on stage and off, Dimebag Darrell.
"When my friend Walter called me with the news last night, I had to make him repreat every word when he was finished. It was just too much to believe. I had to be some sort of stupid, cruel rumor. But it was not. And so begins heavy metal’s darkest day.
"I’ll never forget when Exodus, along with Suicidal Tendencies, had the honor of taking Pamtra out on their first U.S. tour. And I will never forget standing there, along with Rick Hunolt, watching Darrell play during their first soundcheck, just totally ripping Gary Moore’s ‘Still Got the Blues’. Rick and I knew this cat was something special. And he reminded us of it every night. He was a wildman, able to drink people under the table and still go out there and shred, never hitting a bad note. He was the first guitarist I’d ever seen who actually frightened me, he was so fucking good! And most guys with that kind of talent wear their guitars like a bib and spend their off time indulging in role playing games, but Dimebag was a monster of the best and highest caliber. Only Zakk Wylde could compete with Dimebag in that respect.
"My deepest condolences go out to Vinnie and his family. I am so sorry for your loss, and I will not even try to pretend I have any idea what you must be going through right now. The metal world is behind you, we are all behind you.
"Dimebag, rest in peace bro, this blacktooth is for you."
Flo Mounier, Cryptopsy:
"I just found out this morning. What the hell is this fucking planet coming to. Dimebag was an innovator and an amazing guitar player. It’s difficult enough to play shows in this business but now this. I am completely shocked and extremely angry at the way our world is becoming. A moment of silence for Dimebag and the other victims and my thoughts as well as the rest of Cryptopsy’s goes to their families. R.I.P."
Jari Kuusisto, Carnal Forge:
"I can honestly say that Dimebag was one of my favorite guitarist and that he will be strongly missed by me and thousands of other people. One of the greatest has past on way to soon and Carnal Forge send out our deepest condolenses to Dimebag’s family and friends. Right at this moment i only feel sad and angry on that something like this can happen. R.I.P. Dimebag Darrell."
Joel Maitoza, ex-24-7 Spyz:
"I am deeply saddened, shocked and appalled by the recent death of Dime.
"I was very aware of his unique talent the first time I heard the albums ‘I Am The Night’ and ‘Projects In The Jungle’ by Pantera in the late ’80s before they hit the metal mainstream big time with ‘Cowboys from Hell’.
"I had the extreme pleasure of meeting Pantera in 1991 while I was on tour with 24-7 Spyz. Pantera and Spyz also shared the same record label (Atco/Eastwest) and we both worked with producer/engineer extraordinaire Terry Date in the early ’90s. They came out to our show in Dallas and were getting busy in the pit with the rest of the fans.
"Since that show, I had the chance to hang out with the Pantera camp many times over the years. Every time I ran into them they were always down-to-earth people. Darrell was a huge fan of music and treated his fans the same way as they treated him…like family. Never acting like a rock star, but always seeming larger than life. Always having a smile on his face even with a hangover. He consistently gave 110 percent on stage and made everyone around him feel special. Darrell lived his life on 10 all the time.
"It wasn’t his time to go yet. He had a ton of great music to share with the world that will now never be heard.
"I will always remember the times we got to hang out and talk about bands and music.
"May God be watching over you trading licks with Randy, Jimi and all the other great guitarists whose lives were cut short in their prime. You will be missed."
Kyle Thomas, ex-Exhorder:
"I was awakened at about 7:30 a.m. the morning after Darrell Abbott was murdered by a phone call informing me of this disaster. Immediate sadness filled me. I was sickened that such a thing could happen to anyone (including myself), but that it happened to Dime to me is an absolute abomination.
"Darrell was never anything but nice and friendly towards me, even when our bands had a ‘controversy’ between them
"When Exhorder first started playing in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area, he often came out to the shows. I would do the same for Pantera in New Orleans before they exploded. In fact, I most recently saw him at the Judas Priest show in Houston.
"Being that we were more good acquaintances than close friends, our encounters were far between. Nonetheless, Darrell embraced me and proceeded to speak his peace regarding the former negatives between our bands. Not once did he give attitude; Darrell spent several minutes complementing me both professionally and personally, and I returned them as well.
"Zakk Wylde called to him from his tour bus because the bar awaited, to which Dime replied, ‘5 minutes! I NEED to have this conversation!!!’ We then reminded each other that any problems between our bands were not a result of anything between the two of us, and re-certified our friendship. I passed a comment about me, him, and my brother-in-law Craig Nunenmacher of Black Label Society being a band standing there without a bassist, who would it be? We then all looked at each other with raised eyebrows at the very prospect. We shall never know now.
"Above all, I want to send out condolences to Vinnie and his family. Also to Rita, as well as Philip and Rex, all of my friends in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area and the New Orleans friends Darrell had. Condolences also to the world of heavy metal. You lost an innovator, a warrior, and a metal god.
"We’ll meet again…"
Sevendust:
"We have lost a dear friend and the world has lost an incredible musician. Our prayers are with Vinnie and the rest of the Abbott family.
"Words cannot describe the sorrow we and countless others feel over this tragic loss. The many memories of the times we’ve spent with Darrell will be cherished forever and he will never be forgotten. He and his brother have been more influential to us as a band than any other. We would not sound the way we do if it had not been for them. Many other bands can say the same.
"To know your idols and have them as friends is a rarity and we feel blessed to have known and loved Darrell.
"Due to this tragedy, we cancelled last night’s show in Jacksonville, N.C. and the radio station having known the details of Darrell’s death should have understood. We were in no shape to perform. Not to mention the venue had not supplied proper insurance.
"We apologize to our friends in Jacksonville and regardless of how Rock 105.5 feels about our decision, we hope that you understand. This tragedy has helped put our lives and the lives of our loved ones in perspective.
"We love you and be careful."
Ministry:
"Ministry would like to like extend our deepest condolences to Darrell’s friends and family and the friends and families of others who were killed or injured last night.
"Several members of Ministry were very close with Darrell and we are deeply saddened by the loss of this great artist."
John 5, ex-Marilyn Manson:
"My heartfelt condolences go out to Rita, Vinnie, and all of the family and friends of Darrell. Darrell was an incredible friend and guitarist. I can not find words to express how much of a loss this is to everyone. Take care my friend."
Machine Head:
"Machine Head are devastated by the horrific news. Our deepest sympathy and condolences to the Abbott family, Damage Plan and former members of Pantera. Our thoughts are with you all."
Bobby Gustafson, ex-Overkill, Response Negative:
"I’ve sat here for a full day sulking in the total disbelief of the loss of my dear friend Darrell. Wondering if my words would be as pertinent as some of the musicians who’ve been in the spotlight far more than myself. But Darrell has touched me just as strongly as my peers, and I’m sure of that. His unconditional friendship and his zest for life and laughter was unsurpassed by anyone. His talent and gift of guitar playing speaks for itself. One of my proudest moments as a musician came from him, when he told me he used my guitar tone from ‘Years of Decay’ as the basis for ‘Cowboys from Hell’. I will never forget when we sat there drunk as hell with a 4 track in Springfield, Mass. coming up with our own lyrics to Ice T’s ‘There Goes the Neighborhood’, or when they as a band tried to hijack me from N.Y.to Virginia Beach on the tour bus in yet another drunken fiasco, or catching the beer he tossed to me in ‘Vulgar Videos’. I will miss you as a person and a phenomenal guitar player. My tears are shed for you, Vinnie, and the rest of the Abbott family. C-Ya on the other side."
Mercedes Lander, Kittie:
"I dont know how to begin or end this.
"Someone that meant the world to me was shot to death last night… This is still not real to me… I’m still waiting to wake up from this nightmare… it doesn’t even feel real…
"Dime was awesome to me in every way… He took me under his wing when I was 16 and taught me everything I know about what I do… Dime and Vinnie treated me like I was a younger sister and I saw both of them as older brothers… The truth is that they didnt have to be nice to me and treat me as well as they did but they did because they are good people. I had so many awesome nights throughout the years of just drinking and talking. Some people even started calling me the ‘cowgirl from hell.’ I looked up to Dime and Vinnie so much because I saw myself and my sister in them… They made me want to work even harder at my dreams and reach the level that they were at… they are the closest thing I had to heroes.
"I can’t believe something like this could have happened in the metal community. I am at a loss of words to describe how I feel. I am so angry and frustrated… I don’t think I will ever understand this senceless act. I can’t believe this happened. It hurts so much right now. Whats even worse is that I can’t even believe what Vinnie is going through.
"You are one of the most amazing people in the world… I will miss you dearly… All I can think about is all the awesome times we had together… it scares me that I won’t be able to have that again. You were loved by so many people… You will be missed."
Fallon Bowman, ex-Kittie:
"I’m sure most of you have heard about the senseless killing of a guitar god.
"I would like to extend my condolences to the Abbott family at this difficult time.
"Pantera, and especially Dimebag, made sure I had tons o’ fun on the Ozzfest tour so I owe them a lot. Not only that, he was just a down-to-earth, nice person.
"It’s a sad day for music. I’m sure this weekend everyone will do one shot of Jack Daniel’s in his honour.
"RIP, Dime."
Mark Morton, Lamb of God:
"Dime’s music was a huge influence on me personally and on Lamb of God as a whole. As a guitar player he was a true inovator. His sound tone and style shapped modern metal and his riffs are constantly referenced by nearly every band in metal including my own. Only recently did I have the pleasure of hanging out with him on a personal level and he was as genuine and down to earth as anyone you would ever meet. This is a huge loss to the music world."
Disturbed:
"It is with the utmost despair that we extend our condolences to the family and many friends of one of the greatest guitar players to ever walk the face of this earth, Dimebag Darrell Abbott. Not only was he an inspiration to anyone who ever picked up a guitar, but he was one of the most genuine, big-hearted individuals you would ever have the pleasure of meeting. Dime loved to have a good time, and was never satisfied until everyone else around him was having one too. We are all still in an utter state of shock, refusing to believe that he is truly gone. Instead of focusing on the incredibly ugly demise of his death, let us remember the joy and strength he brought to all of us while he was alive.
"To Rita, Vinnie Paul, and all of those who loved him so much, we extend our most heartfelt condolences. We’ll have a double black tooth in your honor brother. You will never be forgotten."
Skinlab:
"Today has got to be one of the darkest days ever. To wake up and realize the news we all recieved yesterday was real. I can hardly believe it. Dime was a huge inspiration on us all in Skinlab not only as an awesome person, but as a guy who was always there for his fans 100%. He will be extremely missed. Our deepest condolences to all of Damageplan and the families of everyone who has been affected by this tragedy. R.I.P., brother … See you on the other side!"
Rob Johnson, Magnitude Nine:
"I was shocked , sick to my stomach & very disgusted when I learned that Dimebag Darrell & innocent others were shot & killed in my hometown & in a club that almost every metal hardrock band has played at over the past 30 years. The Alrosa Villa .
"I’ve always been a big fan of Pantera , and DAMAGE PLAN were a great new group as well. Guitarwise , He was & is one of the best Rock/Metal players EVER. Original & full of talent.
"This is such a horrible loss. Its still hard to imagine this all happened.
"My thoughts go out to his family , friends , band mates , & all Pantera / Dimebag Darrell / Damageplan fans worldwide.
"My thoughts also go out to the others who died while trying to help Darrell after he was gundowned by the coward that did this.
"We will all miss you DARRELL,
"R.I.P."
Kenny Powell, Omen:
"I am not doing good at all at this moment. The last conversation that I had with Dimebag was about what he was going to face doing something different, I had gone through it on ‘Reopening the Gates’ and it was very painful. He was without out doubt one of the most influential guitar players of the past few years and genuinely good person to everyone that has ever met him. I have stopped working today and just have been setting around my office playing guitar and feeling bummed. I hope he is in a better place now, I am getting ready to go to a vigil at the club he co-owned with Vinnie."
Matt Heafy, Trivium:
"There’s nothing that hasn’t already been said or felt about this recent tragedy regarding Dimebag Darrell. All I can say is that Dimebag was one of the most influential musicians in our time. Legends aren’t something we can pick and choose and they aren’t here in vast numbers ? Dime was a man who helped inspire countless numbers of players, fans, and people in general, a legend who really made the world seem that much better. Everyone I know who has met Dime says he was really nothing short of one of the nicest people they’d ever met, that he was a humble fun-loving metal head. But now Dimebag Darrell: a son, a brother, an idol, a musician, a fellow man… has been taken from us. It’s a terrifying feeling that now at concerts, our very release from the everyday world we each seek out to escape from, our heroes are being murdered. My heart goes out to the Abbott family: Dimebag Darrell Abbott was a man of legendary and heroic status, but before all that Darrell was and always will be a brother and a son; we all mourn today."
James Murphy, ex-Testament/Death/Obituary:
"I first met Darrell about 18 years ago at a show in Texas around ’85-’86. Pantera was playing to a pretty packed house at this little hole-in-the-wall venue ? a bar, really, with a stage jammed into one corner. I had not come for the music, but rather to socialize and have a few drinks. I was only 18 or 19 (18 was old enough to buy beer in Texas and Louisiana in those days) and I had never heard of Pantera before. I nursed my beer and mingled as the band on stage played a diverse collection of cover songs and soon enough I started to take note of the killer playing of the lone guitarist on stage and became more and more impressed as the band started to work in some original music. I took note of two things in particular: 1. how this band with this single guitarist could sound so thick and powerful on stage, and 2. how that guitarist who looked to be about the same age as me could play so damn well and with such an original style. He was, in my estimation, light years ahead of me.
"As the night was wrapping up I made my way to the band’s merchandise table where I noticed some cassette tapes for sale, asked which one was the most recent, and purchased it. I then made my way over to where the guitarist was hanging out off to the side of the tiny stage and introduced myself. Diamond Darrell, as he was known in those days, extended his hand warmly and though he was tired and trying to pack up some gear he still took the time to chat and tell me more about himself and the band. Having met many ‘bar band’ guitarists by that point from the Texas and Louisiana club circuit I was immediately struck by how truly nice Darrell was by comparison to some of the other guys I had talked to… he showed me his guitar, his rig, and tried to show me a couple cool guitar licks on his unplugged instrument over the din of the bar crowd. I was in awe of this guy, and when I asked he revealed to me that he was less than one year older than me… I was floored and rushed home with my new Pantera cassette determined to practice until I was on a level somewhere close to Darrell’s by the following year.
"That tape was titled ‘I Am The Night’ and though the tape itself wore out years ago from constant play I recall that the line-up consisted of all but Phil Anselmo out of the line-up we all know from the most famous albums.. i.e., from ‘Cowboys from Hell’ onward. I liked every song and Darrell’s incredibly tight rhythm playing was evident throughout the album, but there was also an instrumental track that showcased Darrell’s amazing solo guitar talent, I think it was titled ‘D-G-T-T-M’ and I wore my fingers and ears out trying to learn it.
"I met Darrell many more times over the years, especially as my career started moving forward in 1990, and no matter how big Pantera got he was always the same as that first meeting…. genuinely nice. Sometimes he would remember me, other times he didn’t seem to at all, but he never treated me any differently.
"I will miss you Darrell, the world will miss you. My deepest sympathies to Vinnie, Rita, and the entire Abbott family as well as to all those like myself who are, have been, and always will be, in awe of what you accomplished, what you played, and most importantly, who you were.
"Rest in peace brother."
Mike Portnoy, Dream Theater:
"I wasn’t gonna post anything because this whole tragedy isn’t about me or how I feel? and I feel so helpless and insignificant at such an unbelievable time as this…
"But after sitting in front of my computer screen in disbelief for the last 24 hours since I heard about this last night I finally felt I needed to at least acknowledge how absolutely horrible I feel about this nightmare.
"Actually, I am sick to my stomach.
"Dime was an incredible talent who I’ve admired since the beginning when we had both just signed to Atco Records. It’s been many years since I’ve hung with him or any of the Pantera guys ? but my memories with him and the guys were always of great fun and filled with crazy drunken insanity.
"He lived each and everyday to the fullest. In fact, I never could believe how he could even function (both on and off stage) with the way he partied and lived life.
"I feel so sorry for Vinnie and the rest of the band and family.
"Words really cannot describe the heartache I’ve had all day.
"This is as tragic and unbelievable as Lennon getting killed.
"But this hits home even closer because he was ONE OF US.
"I really cannot believe it…"
Derek Sherinian, ex-Dream Theater, Yngwie Malmsteen:
"I think that this is such a horrible tragedy. I never met Darrell, but I admired his talent and what he stood for musically. My heart goes out to his family and loved ones."
Chris Caffery, Savatage:
"Recently we were suddenly stripped [of] a modern-day guitar legend. Darrell was one of the few guitarists in history that had his own unique spot. His own style, his own sound.
"When you hear someone say ‘the Eddie Van Halen sound’ or the ‘Yngwie sound,’ you know what I mean. These are the true legends. There was a Pantera sound. This sound was groundbreaking, it was Darrell. I respected him and learned from him even after playing guitar for over 25 years. As a person he was one of the kindest and friendliest I have ever met.
"Having a brother who is a drummer, I can only imagine Vinnie’s pain. My thoughts and prayers are with his closest friends and family.
"The heavy metal world is large and widespread, but we are still a big community, a family. Yesterday we lost a cornerstone. A very special member of the family.
"RIP Dimebag!"
(Thanks: Glam-Metal.com)
Jeff Waters, Annihilator:
"Not sure what to say. Still in a bit of a state of shock.
"I didn’t know Dime very well but always looked up to his incredible riffing and writing. One of the top 10 most important and influential metal guitarists, no doubt.
"I wish Vinnie, family and all the band members involved (including Phil Anselmo) all the best and my thoughts go out to every one of them. Certainly ‘shock’ is the best and only way I can describe my feelings at this moment."
Danzig bassist Jerry Montano sent the following statement to BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
"I just wanted to say my heart goes out to Vince, Rita, and the entire Pantera/Damageplan family. We lost undoubtfully the greatest metal guitarist of all time and a great friend.
"I had the honor of calling [Dimebag] a friend and even bandmember at one time (I was lucky enough to play bass for Dime and Vinnie’s side band GASOLINE). I have to say just being next to him while he was playing his guitar was always a sacred experience ? he was truly unbelievable when it came to his playing, but he really shined when it came to being a friend.
"I can remember during reheasal one day or night (who the fuck knows at that point, right?!!) after the four of us finished playing (fourth being my boy Thurber T. Mingus, our singer and friend from the southern metal band Pumpjack). Dime and I were hangin having a few beers in the back. I remember asking him, ‘How the FUCK do you do it man!!!?’ and he looked at me with a very humble look and said, ‘Man, I just close my eyes and it comes right through my body my hands and outta my guitar.’ I remember him telling me he doesn’t even know what’s gonna come out of him when he records his solos and that it was a gift given to him from god that he never questions.
"Truly amazing.
"He was THE ONE THE ONLY and there will NEVER be another.
"Words like kind, caring, loving, generous amazing, undeniable, compassionate and god-sized are what come to mind when thinking about this kind man I had the privilege of getting to know very well over the years.
"And there is the touring we did together … I swear, [it] literally has taken years and years off all of our lives!! GODDAMN! Ozzfest!! Reinventing tour!! Those four months alone almost did me in ? literally! I remember he was as excited as me when I landed the NOTHINGFACE gig, and gave us the tour immediately!! (Good times). I will never forget one word, one moment, or one note for as long as I exist. EVER.
"I just needed to say you’ll be greatly missed my brother (I still feel like I am gonna get 4- and 5- and 6-in-the-morning phone calls fom you!!). You will never be forgotten ? and [you] truly made an impact on my life forever.
"So let’s sit back and remember the good times, all the wild and insane times and the quiet cool mellow hung over times, and know the entire world lost a friend and hero. So now he graduates from this life to go on to his destiny as the greatest metal guitarist of all time, a true bonafide LEGEND.
"CHEERS to you, my friend!!! ‘I’ll see you on the other side.’ At the great bar in the sky. Until then, you’ll forever be in our hearts.
(Just like you always said!) C’MON with your C’MON!!!
"With all my love, respect, admiration… and with great regret, I now say goodbye.
"GODS NEVER DIE ? DIME LIVES"
Rich Ward, Fozzy/Stuck Mojo:
"I feel that we should all be hesitant to make any assumptions or to repeat Internet rumors, at least until they are substantiated. Even then, what would our motivation be to talk about his death? All the details will unfold in the coming days. I think our focus would be better served by celebrating Dime’s life and how he and his music touched us all.
"When we were on tour with Pantera, Dime was obsessed with repeating a phrase from the movie ‘Pulp Fiction’, ‘Tell that bitch to chill.’ . . . He had us all in stitches, as every few minutes you’d hear his voice echo through the arena, ‘I said……TELL THAT BITCH TO CHILL.’
"At the time of our tour, Pantera’s head of security was a guy appropriately named, Big Val. After a few ‘black tooths,’ Bonz got a hair up his ass and said that he’d put phat cash on Corey to beat Big Val in an arm wrestling contest. Well, it didn’t take Dime and Vinnie two seconds to pull two huge rolls of cash out of their pockets. The room went nuts seeing Bonz’ jaw drop as he realized his mouth was writing checks that his ass couldn’t cash.
"The best story though was when we first met up with Pantera at the Dynamo festival, which was the day before our tour started. We had a meeting, where we discussed playing it cool and not being too quick to be all up their ass.
"Let’s face it, all of us in Mojo worshipped Pantera and we wanted to earn their respect as well as being mindful of how annoying it was when the opening band hung out all day in your dressing room. But as all plans on tour are destined to fail, Bonz got drunk, forgot ‘our agreement’ and wandered out on stage with a shot of Crown Royal for Dime. This being the touring band’s sign of friendship and respect, Dime smiled and leaned his head back. Then Bonz poured the shot in Dime’s eye! He made the most awful face and staggered over blindly towards his tech, who tried to clean his eye with a wet towel. Mind you, he didn’t stop playing and this was in front of a crowd of over fifty thousand people. He regained his sight after about two songs and later walked over to where I was standing, which was next to his tech. He looked at me, laughed and said, ‘Goddamn man, if that shit stings your eye that bad, I wonder what it’s doing to my stomach.’
"I’ll miss you."
Bleed The Sky:
"It’s a sad day in heavy metal, Dimebag Darrell formerly of Pantera, was shot and killed while performing with Damageplan in Ohio. We would more than likely not be a band if it wasn’t for him, and can’t possibly imagine the pain that his brother and his family must be in. RIP, brother, heavy music will never be the same without you."
Matt Difabio, Single Bullet Theory:
"It’s been almost 14 hours since I heard the report that dime had been shot and killed. At first I assumed it was a hoax. I mean, who would shot Dimebag? I sit here still completely blown away and overcome with sadness.
"Dimebag was without a doubt a key element in creating and changing what we are all so blessed to call metal in the new millennium. This guy is the definitive king of killer shredding and great tone… A trend-setting monster of a player who had the skill of a complete mastermind of his craft.
"On a personal note, I had the chance only once to drink for hours with Dime during my time in Pissing Razors. I still remember being in awe of his presence, he was 100% down to earth, laid-back, funny as hell and a genuine great person to say I had the privilege of meeting. He also got us drunk to the point of insanity (but that goes without saying).
"I now understand what my parents went through when JFK or Lennon was shot. The world stops and actually looks at just how important this person’s life was to other people and how influential one person can be to a generation. Hopefully, we will be able to shed light to the rest of the world that ‘heavy metal" isn’t too blame for this catastrophe. One sick persons actions does not speak for an entire genre. I already saw one news report trying to paint a picture that metal creates and advocates violence… I hope people come to understand that this was an isolated incident that is as bizarre as it is horrific.
"In closing, thank you, Dime… for inspiring so many of us too do what we do! You set a precedent that will always be imitated but never matched. I speak for all the members of Single Bullet Theory when I say ? You will be sorely missed!"
Mark Hunter, Chimaira:
"Dime’s music gave me so much to live for when I was younger, and he truly changed the face of metal with his unique style of guitar playing. There isn’t a metal band I know that hasn’t borrowed a riff or three from him."
Kirk Windstein, Crowbar:
"This whole thing is very disturbing.
"First, I’d like to give my deepest heartfelt sympathy to Vinnie, Rita, all Dime’s bandmates, and all of his family and friends throughout the world.
"Second, I’d like to thank Dime for all the joy he’s brought to my life both through his music, and through his friendship over the years.
"I can honestly say that hanging out with Dime was some of the funnest times of my life. I really looked up to him as a person, and, of course, as a guitar hero. It’s not very often that you get to jam with one of your musical inspirations on his back porch.
"I feel really fortunate to have been able to know him as a person, to tour with Pantera, to sit there with him and watch him do what very few can do on a guitar.
"This whole thing is just horrible.
"My sincerest thoughts and prayers go out to him and all of his loved ones.
"Thanks for all you’ve brought to my life, Dime. Love you, bro."
Life of Agony:
"Today is a sad day for music. Life of Agony are extremely distraught over last night’s insane tragedy which took the life of Damageplan’s Dimebag Darrell. The band’s hearts go out to the Abbott family as well as the entire Damageplan camp. Dime, you will never be forgotten. We are all just speechless over here."
Hatebreed:
"Right now, we like so many are in complete disbelief and shock at the horrific murder of our friend, hero and brother Dimebag Darrell.
"Our deepest and most sincere condolences to Rita, Vinnie and all of his bandmates, family and friends. May our love and prayers be with you in this horrible time.
"Dime was one of the most amazing, generous, talented, funny, charismatic and caring people we have ever met. Some of the greatest times of our lives were spent with him and we will never forget his zest for life and generosity. Thank you, Dime. The world will never be the same without you. Your contributions to music and to all of our lives are invaluable and will never be forgotten. We love you bro.
"Today we mourn with all of the Pantera and Damageplan fans around the world but tonight we are gonna play our asses off like Dime would have wanted us to!"
Dan Jacobs, Atreyu:
"It’s a sad day when being such a good guitar player can get you killed. Metal will never be the same."
Iscariah, The Clan Destined/ex-Immortal:
"It’s through a hole in my heart I express my uttermost condolences to Dimebag’s family in these difficult times.
"I remember me and my friends banging our heads out to ‘Cowboys From Hell’ when it came out. The energy it let out was something which was through tough times easier to release.
"Even though my path has been laid down more in direction of extreme music than Pantera, they gave us the balls to move on when we were young.
"From the class of ’91… You will always be in our thoughts for our future achievements…"
Terry Butler, Six Feet Under:
"Our deepest sympathies go out to the families of the victims in this horrific, senseless tragedy. The metal community has lost one of its most influential musicians. Dimebag’s passion and energy for music was second to none."
Wayne Static, Static-X:
"It’s taken me several days to gather my thoughts so I could make some sort of statement about Dime. This whole thing is so surreal.
"Pantera changed my life as a musician. Dime has always been my absolute favorite guitarist ever.
?Static-X did two tours with Pantera and they were the most memorable tours of my career. Recently I’ve been very excited that Dime and Vinnie have carried on with Damageplan, and I was looking forward to hearing many more great albums from them in the future.
"The last show Static-X played before entering the recording studio was with Damageplan in Florida. After the show, Dime and I, along with his awesome wife Rita, hung out all night and did plenty of drinking.
"I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to get to know Dime, along with his bandmates Vinnie, Patrick, and Bobzilla. Damageplan, their crew, and their friends are some of the best people I?ve ever met. Dime had a huge heart and a pure honesty that made him very cool and unique. He will be missed by everyone."
Tripp Eisen, Static-X:
"Dimebag’s passing has left me stunned. When I think about it throughout the day it hits me like a ton of bricks. The only thing that is justified is that the gunman was shot dead. This horrible event has shaken up all of our worlds.
"My heart goes out to Vinnie Paul and everyone who was close to Dimebag Darrell and the other three who were murdered that night.
"I got to know him in 2001 during the Extreme Steel Tour, and he is a genuine, super-nice guy. Always smiling and in good spirits. Fun to be around. Plus he was a KISS fan, a Dallas Cowboys fan, and fellow right-wing conservative (all things near to my heart). And of course his immense talent that influenced me 12 years ago when I first became a Pantera fan.
"The final Static-X show this year was with Damageplan in Orlando, FL (Oct. 2), and it was a pleasure to hang out with those guys for two nights and watch them play.
"Dime will be terribly missed. Hail to a brother of metal, and a super-nice guy. He leaves a musical legacy and his life was an inspiration."
Michelle Branch:
"I am so sad to hear about Dimebag being shot and killed while doing something he loves. I was lucky to meet him (photo) and he was one of the sweetest guys. It’s hard to believe that a lot of clubs don’t offer metal detectors (because they can’t afford them) or proper security. Most of the security you see at shows are just normal guys who either volunteer or simply wear a t-shirt that says security. Something needs to change.
"Any ideas? Petitions? Letters to your local clubs?
"If musicians start feeling unsafe doing what they love, we’ll have a big problem."
Trent Reznor, Nine Inch Nails:
"What a sad time. First Jhonn (sic) and now Dimebag. Two very different and very great people who will be sorely missed."
Miguel "Meegs" Rascon, ex-Coal Chamber:
"I would just like to take this moment to expess my sorrow to all the people that passed away [Wednesday] night.
"I know Dime was a great influence to a lot of people, including myself. He will be missed deeply.
"I can personally say I had some of the best times touring with PANTERA. Music is something that should be shared with all. We never stop to realize how powerful it can be.
"Dime, thanks for all the fun times we had! This drink’s for you!
"R.I.P."
Johnny Kelly, Type O Negative:
"I’m not really sure what to say or how to put it in words to describe what I’m feeling at the moment. The world has lost a genuine person, one of the true greats. We’ve lost a great friend, some have lost an idol, but more tragic than any of that, a father lost his son and Vinnie lost his brother.
"Since Type O Negative first toured with Pantera in 1995, both bands have remained close friends. No matter how much time would pass, whenever we would get together it always seemed like we had just seen each other the night before. Touring with them was an amazing experience that I still talk about ten years later. I have so many memories of Darrell and all of it included laughter. Hanging out with Darrell, Rita, Vinnie, Pantera and Damageplan was always an adventure. You never knew what was going to happen but it usually wound up with your stomach hurting from laughing so much and a really nasty hangover in the morning.
"I know that Darrell was an amazing guitar player and many know him just for that. I would have to take a step back every once in a while to see him for that, because that wasn’t how I knew him. I knew him to be a very enthusiastic, generous, animated and one of the funniest guys that just happened to be one of the greatest guitarists of our time. He had a way with people that after you met him, you became a part of his family. We always considered him family and we’re devastated. Heaven definitely has its hands full now that Darrell’s shown up.
"Even though I have written this about Dime, I want to send our condolences to the families and friends of the others that were so senselessly taken away from us on Wednesday night."
Metal Church:
"The news of Dimebag’s death reached the ears of the Metal Church camp about five minutes before we were due to hit stage in Tuscon, AZ. At that time it was just a rumor and not confirmed.
"This tragedy especially hit the Metal Church camp hard as Dime was a friend to Kirk Arrington for many years as is Dime’s wife Rita. A senseless tragedy such as this is next to impossible to process in the band’s and crew’s minds as when we played Ft. Worth this past Sunday night, Rita came to our show and partied the Metal Church boys and afterwards treated Kirk and the road crew (myself included) to the utmost hospitality by letting us stay at her and Dime’s house that evening.
"The boys in the band and crew have been in a constant state of surreal shock since this tragedy was confirmed. We are all immensely saddened by this great loss to the world of metal and the world in general.
"Dime was a hell-raising lover of life and the world is that much darker without him. It just all seems like a horrible joke or bad dream still and will for quite some time.
"I wish to personally extend my deepest condolences to Rita, a wonderful person who took us road-weary guys in and treated us like family. When you’re on the road for long periods of times an act of such consideration and kindness means a lot to us and to have to have the worst thing in the world happen to such a person just days after is just unthinkable.
"Rita, I have no words to say that could possibly describe my heartfelt sorrow for your loss. If there’s anything we can do for you please call."
Eyehategod:
"The world and Eyehategod lost a brother and true friend with the passing of Dimebag Darrell Abbott. He was a true Eyehategod fan from the heart. He will be missed on every single level for so many reasons.
"We extend our condolences and love to the Abbott family, the Damageplan families and all who became victims December 8th, 2004."
Brazilian thrashers Sepultura and their road crew sent the following statement to BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
"We still remember the first time we toured in Texas and this ‘crazy’ guy came to talk with us about his band Pantera. Later we went on tour with them and had some of the best times of our lives with Dime.
"We are really gonna miss [Dime] as a great musician, but [also] a lot as an awesome person.
"Dente Preto lives forever."
Dave Navarro:
"I never met Darrell, but I will always remain dazzled by his playing.
"I cannot believe how sad the whole shooting incident is.
"Music is important. You know it means the world to me. But in the same breath, it is just music. So many bands break up, do new stuff, move on, sometimes get back together for a while and then keep moving, reunite, I mean, it just happens. Marriages end in divorce sometimes, boyfriends and girlfriends separate, business partners go separate ways.
"I was going to try to list all the bands I could think of that have parted over the years, but come on, that would take forever. As soon as I typed, THE BEATLES, I thought, ‘Maybe I don’t even have to go any further.’
"Darrell was just playing music.
"I have read that his death was due to the opinions of a disgruntled PANTERA fan. If there is any truth to that, it is just so sickening and pathetic and full of selfish hate on the part of the shooter. So full of self-importance and grandeur. As a music fan, it makes me sad. As a fellow artist it makes me sad. I mean, who did this guy think he was rocking out to when he listened to PANTERA? Was he really just a part-time supporter of Darrell? Could he find the distinction? What a fucked up world it must be to live in where one thinks that everything revolves around him and is about him and for or against him.
"So, Darrell got shot cause he wanted to make music. Because he was happy creating and playing. I am utterly saddened and disgusted. A devastating day for music and for those of us who consider ourselves fans, myself included, because, clearly, on some level, this guy thought we all had this in common. We consider ourselves fans of music.
"And acceptance is the answer to all my problems today. When I am disturbed, it is because I find some person, place, thing or situation ? some fact of my life—unacceptable to me, and I can find no serenity until I accept that person, place, thing or situation as being exactly the way it is supposed to be at this moment. Nothing, absolutely nothing happens in God’s world by mistake…"
"Music, our song, our community is our voice. It is by the people for the people, of the people. It is progression, forward movement. The hate is backwards decay into death. We owe it to ourselves to be the representatives of who we really are. The healers. We owe it to the world, because clearly, the world needs to be shown sometimes."
Ted Nugent spoke to the Flint, Michigan newspaper The Flint Journal:
"It was horrible. Darrell was a big fan of mine. He expressed that every time we ever saw each other," said the Nuge, who fondly recalled that PANTERA performed his "Journey to the Center of the Mind" and "Cat Scratch Fever" the last time they played Detroit.
"It’s tragic on two dynamic levels," Nugent, an outspoken advocate of sensible gun ownership, added. "Once again, innocence is destroyed, and it’s Americans destroying other Americans. This conduct runs wild in this country … It’s not the Taliban doing it. It’s Americans."
Jon Dette, ex-Slayer, Testament:
"My brother just called to tell me that Dimebag Darrell was shot and killed on stage tonight. Words cannot express the sadness I’m feeling right now and my condolences go out to Vinnie Paul and the Abbott family for their loss. This is a huge tragedy for the music world."
Former Testament/Savatage guitarist Alex Skolnick sent the following statement to BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
"I was watching CNN early this morning when they cut to the scene of a conert shooting in Columbus. I was sure it was some local band, then they showed the pictures of Darrell. I still can’t believe it.
"I remember meeting those guys for the first time in Houston in ’88, when TESTAMENT got up and jammed with them, They were a metal cover band with a reputation of playing better than some of the bands they were paying tribute to.
"I remember Darrell asking me to show him one of my TESTAMENT solos to see if he was doing it right. He was, and added his own thing to it. As time went on, I’ll be the first to admit the PANTERA found their own voice as a band and took it to levels which blew us all away.
"I hadn’t seen [Darrell] in about ten years or so. We were very different types of players and people. I wanted to explore other musical styles, he wanted to delve deeper and deeper into metal. I was shy and quiet (at the time), he was a loud, wild Texan. We weren’t close but when I saw him over the years I always felt a mutual respect. I considered him one of the best metal players out there and am truly saddened by this and in disbelief that something like this could happen.
"I don’t know what else to say.
"RIP, Dime."
AMEN/SCUM frontman Casey Chaos sent the following statement to BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
"Dimebag and Vinnie were two of the most generous, down to earth and influential guys American metal will ever know.
"Dimebag’s unmistakable lifestyle and larger-than-life spirit changed music forever. His generosity, his music and living life to the fullest was truly inspirational to anyone in any band or anyone alive. I don’t think there is a soul alive that hasn’t been touched by this.
"I had the great privilege to be interviewed by Dime and his brother for ‘Headbanger’s Ball’ just a few months ago. He greeted me with gifts and stories as we talked of a tour together in the near future. Up to that time, we had met on numerous occasions as anyone in a band today does.
"To say that we lost a legendary performer is an injustice, for he was truly unique and an incredibly funny guy. His mere presence would light up any room in any country, even if you didn’t understand the language. His lust for life would exude from him, and you felt as if you had just fallen in love. He was so down to earth and generous to the degree that he gave me a present of Crown Royal with a handmade label that I have kept on my mantle since then, and there it will remain until my dying day.
"At this time, as with anyone who was around him, I have tears in my eyes. I just wish that today those tears were from the laughter due to his exuberant spirit. I remember Larkin telling me about him and then showing me the videos and we’d laugh so hard it hurt.
"I don’t think the metal community will ever truly recover from this tragic loss. In passing he has left a legacy of music that will remain timeless for future generations to be influenced by. The sound of his work is unmistakable and completely unique. A product of his lifestyle and pure intensity as a writer and a guitarist that was truly his own. Make no doubts about it when it came down to it that on and off stage the man
was the MAN.
"He was heavy metal on steroids. What Larry Flynt did for porn is like what Darrell did for guitar playing. Always with a smile on his face he talked the talk and did a hell of a lot more than walk the walk. He was unmistakably a one-of-a-kind human being, above it all a career that was never-ending, which is unheard of in these modern day one-hit-wonder times. He wrote some of the heaviest riffs that metal has ever had the privilege of hearing.
"My heart goes out to you, Vinnie, and the family, for I can’t imagine how good life must have been, from the day he was born to the day that some jealous coward does the unthinkable and robs the world of a truly inspirational soul. Now I’m gonna sit back and watch his DVDs and remember a man I wish the world could take lessons from. To me, Dimebag was life with a big heart, a sound bigger than life, and he was happy to share it with you the way he shared his soul with all of us.
"For any of us who have had the pleasure of meeting him, I feel we are a hell of a lot richer from it than those who didn’t. For those of you who didn’t, listen to the music and watch the videos and I am sure you will know what I mean.
"I’m keeping this bottle of Crown you gave me, Dime, ’till we can drink it together again. Thank you to the family for bringing up such a loveable and honorable man. May the world’s grief help to heal the wounds of an irreplaceable loss.
"Thank you Darrell from all of us in AMEN/SCUM.
"Thanks for the legacy."
U.P.O. bassist Zoltan sent the following statement to BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
"First time I saw Darrell play live, I was in Europe? and it really caught me by surprise? You just had to see this guy play guitar to believe it? He was punishing? Still to this day, that was one of the most solid shows I’ve ever seen? I remember at one point he was jumping off this high riser, and he was looking right at me grimacing with his tongue out ? while he switched pickups and adjusted his volume in mid air? then hit the floor on cue just in time to step on his pedals? I was so impressed that we rented a car and drove after them to see the next two shows of the tour? He was un-fuckin-believable?
"It is beyond words when a lunatic asshole who had nothing positive to give to this world takes down somebody precious, somebody who inspired all of us?
"?And to all you concert-goers? Don’t let this asshole take away your music too? There are going to be parents all across the country who won’t let their kids go to see bands? saying that rock or metal is violent or dangerous? But this IS NOT metal? this has nothing to do with metal? John Lennon had nothing to do with metal? This can (and did) happen in a McDonalds, or in a school? You’re still going? Probably Dimebag would be the first to tell you? go see a band today? any band? rock out? that’s your damage plan? one jackass can’t take down all of us?
"m/ R.I.P. Dimebag m/"
Corey Taylor, Slipknot:
"He could take a riff that would take somebody a year to master and he could rip it off in seconds. He made everything look like he was playing ‘Smoke on the Water’ with one finger.
"He was one of the coolest people I’ve ever met. The guy just loved to laugh and he loved to make you laugh. And he loved to make you do something that you would never do in a million years. He was a guy that lived in the moment. His philosophy was, ‘Let’s do something that is gonna make us remember tonight for the rest of our lives.’ And that’s something I’m gonna fucking miss for the rest of mine."
Shawn ?Clown? Crahan, Slipknot:
"It’s just upsetting how the world is ? the need and the necessity to override the value of life. From my whole (SLIPKNOT) family, I would like to tell . . . Vinnie and everyone else how sorry we are."
Damageplan:
Jeffrey ‘Mayhem’ Thompson was not just a true part of the Damageplan family, but part of the whole Dallas music scene. He was friend to all, with a great personality. He bent over backward to help us all with his trademark phrases like ‘What can I do for you sir?’ and ‘Coming up!’ He also stated his willingness to protect us, saying ‘I’d take a bullet for ya,’ and unfortunately did in defense of our lives. He truly lived and died for his friends and made the ultimate sacrifice, giving his life to save ours. For this we will never forget. You will be missed big man.
Hank Williams III, Superjoint Ritual:
"It just ain’t fuckin right… Alcohol should have killed Dime, not a fuckin piece of shit worthless fuck with a gun trying to recreate the John Lennon’s killing… This happened on the same day, if you didnt know… Dime will never die EVER!!! His style of guitar playing took metal to a whole new chapter in metal history.
"For those of us that were lucky enough to be around Dime as a person… or see him jam in no matter what band it was, you know he liked to have a good time… In his honor, crank up his fuckin music and get motherfuckin wasted on whiskey!!!!!!!
"And no matter what was said with all the shit talking between Superjoint Ritual and Damageplan, that’s all it was, nothing but talk!! If we had ever been in the same room together as both bands, it would have been cool? Kinda like seeing ‘ole family….
"I’m sure there will be plenty of new rumors surfacing…..And fingers pointing at people to blame… But Philip and the rest of Superjoint Ritual are in a state of shock and blown away by this tragedy! We do not take this shit lightly… What this kid did is so fucked up its not even conceivable. May you burn in the hottest corners of hell, you pistol-packin’ pussyfuck…
"R.I.P Dimebag. You rocked harder than you will ever know!!!!"
Philip H. Anselmo, Superjoint Ritual/Pantera:
"Darrell my brother. The best of the best."
If you would like to make a donation to the Dimebag Darrell Memorial Fund, please do so. All funds help families that have lost or had injured loved ones in this horrific event.
Send to:
Dimebag Darrell Memorial Fund
3100 Main #105
Dallas, TX 75226
USA
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