Thanks to the Ride For Dime folks, I got to represent Rock Revolt Magazine celebrate the Dimebag Darrell’s and his 50th Birthday at theGas Monkey in Dallas. This was the 11th “Ride For Dime” charity concert in Dallas although rain prevented the bike run (that would have passed by his original home). There were great performances from all the bands who were Corrosion of Conformity, Prong, Kyng, Honky, Whiskey Dick and of course the amazing Nick Bowcott.
Sponsored by Monster Energy and hosted by the energetic and fun Jose Mangin of Sirius Radio, and planned tirelessly by, Rita Haney, Chad Lee and Brenda Haney and many, many others, this was a very special tribute and evening to the legendary musician Darrell Lance Abbott, who as the world knows was tragically shot and killed by a gunman while on stage during a performance with Damageplan on December 8, 2004, in Columbus.
Making this event so special however was, that this was a celebration of Dimebag’s life and music and the memories that he has left behind him in so many people’s hearts. A rich inheritance of family, friends, musicians, a loving partner and host in Rita Haney, fond stories told on the patio outside by his buddies.
Inside, everywhere you might look, whether a tattoo on an arm or on T-shirt front were memories and images of Dimebag . The most amazing feeling in the room and among the 1500 or so audience, is the complete warmth, love and admiration that Dimebag inspired both in older and younger fans as well as the musicians performing both their original music and then some of his music in tribute.
The phrase that I heard most often at this birthday celebration was “family” and that is what is brought together every year as part of Dimebag’s legacy.
They loved him then and they love him now.
