Remembering Pantera’s ‘Dimebag’ Darrell Abbott on His Birthday [VIDEO]

While the December 8th tragedy still resonates in our minds, today is a day to remember one of the greatest guitarists of all-time on his birthday. Happy birthday, Dimebag.     

Darrell Lance Abbott was born on this day, August 20th, back in 1966.  He would be 50 years old today.  Along with his brother, Vinnie Paul Abbott,  he helped form one of the greatest metal bands of all time (the best, in my opinion), Pantera.  He started playing the guitar at the age of 12 and from then on, he would show the world how bad ass he was.

I got turned on to Pantera from a buddy of mine that I worked with at Taco Bell back in the early 90's.  I had already missed their 'Cowboys From Hell' release, but 'Vulgar Display of Power' had just came out.  My friend played me some of the songs, and from that moment on, I was a huge fan.

Dime's riffs and the way he played was so innovative in the world of rock.  At that time, it was the end of the 80's hair metal, so something new, fast and hard hitting was definitely welcomed to my ears.   Sure there was Metallica, Slayer and tons of fast heavy metal bands, but there was just something real and different with Pantera - they just simply rocked everybody's faces off.

I'll never forget the many Pantera concerts that I went to as I would watch in awe as Dime would tear up the stage.

Many have tried, and many more will try, but nobody will ever be able to duplicate what he did for the rock and heavy metal world.  So, join me in remembering one of the best guitarists ever with a video of some of his best solos. Happy Birthday, Dimebag Darrell and R.I.P.

Dimebag's Top 10 Solos

What is your favorite Dimebag solo?