Dimebash at the OC Observatory this Thursday During NAMM

NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) holds an annual convention in Anaheim that is the biggest happening for musicians and industry people in Southern California. Thousands of people flock to the huge, industry-only event that boasts over 1500 exhibitors, who are there launching new products, hosting signings, promoting live demos from famous musicians and organizing jam sessions. The floor is crowded with everyone from owners of musical instrument stores (who all of this is aimed at), to famous musicians and people whose names you have only ever seen on a cymbal. Where else could you hang out with Vic Firth and Bootsy Collins?

And that’s just the daytime “official business.” At night the joint is really jumping, with the venues and hotels surrounding NAMM hosting industry parties and concerts (in order to highlight the company’s instruments). In years past we have seen performances by the Funky Meters, Alice Cooper, Slash and Uriah Heep.

One of the most anticipated events this year is Dimebash 2020, happening on NAMM’s opening night, Thursday, January 16, 2020 at 7 PM. The OC Observatory will be the location for this annual concert in honor of Dimebag Darrell Abbott, the guitarist for Pantera who was tragically shot to death onstage in 2004. Hosted by SiriusXM’s Jose Mangin and Riki Rachtman, the show features the ubiquitous Dave Grohl, who will be playing onstage (and grilling BBQ backstage for the VIPs and musicians). Also on the roster are members of Anthrax, Armored Saint, Cypress Hill, King Diamond, Lamb of God, Lita Ford, Sebastian Bach, and of course, Foo Fighters, playing classics from Pantera, plus some of Dimebag’s favorite songs.

The Ticketmaster website says tickets are sold out, but don’t freak out. They will be releasing more tickets, and the General Admission tickets can still be purchased on ticket selling websites like Ticket Center($102)  Viagogo ($62) ConcertFix ($68) and Queenbee Tickets ($58 – $79. Use discount code DISCOUNT), But you better hurry ’cause they’re going fast!