In the latest episode of the Beardo and Weirdo podcast, comedian Craig Gass and Five Finger Death Punch bassist Chris Kael share captivating tales about the legendary Pantera icons Vinnie Paul and Dimebag Darrell. This engaging discussion delves into their experiences with these rock legends, bringing both humor and nostalgia to the forefront.
The episode features an intriguing interview clip with Grady Champion, the longtime guitar technician for Pantera. Gass opens the conversation by recounting his experience as an opening act for Pantera in late 2024 during an intimate club show in Minnesota. It was here that he had the pleasure of meeting Champion for the very first time, setting the stage for a memorable exchange of stories.
During the podcast, Gass shares a poignant moment when Champion recalls opening Dime’s guitar case, which held the very instrument he played on that tragic night when he was killed on stage. Together with Dime’s girlfriend, Rita Haney, they discovered that while the guitar had been wiped down, it was not entirely clean. Champion reflects on that challenging experience, saying, “It was more than what we bargained for,” highlighting the emotional weight of that moment.
Kael lightens the atmosphere by reminiscing about the joyous “Sunday Funday” dinners hosted by Vinnie Paul at his home, where he would gather friends for delightful meals. “He had these peanut butter stuffed jalapenos — they were so good! Vinnie was such an incredible host,” Kael fondly remembers. These anecdotes serve to remind listeners of the warm and inviting spirit of Vinnie Paul.
READ MORE: Vinnie Paul’s Long-Awaited ‘Drumming Up an Appetite’ Cookbook Finally Released
As the conversation transitions back to a more reflective tone, Kael shares a story that underscores the enduring spirit of Vinnie Paul. While visiting the gravesite of the Abbott brothers on a sweltering Texas summer day, he found himself struggling to locate the plot. In a moment of connection, he called out to Vinnie for assistance, and to his surprise, he felt a cold breeze on the back of his neck. Looking to his right, he suddenly spotted the ‘Abbott’ marker just beyond the hedges, suggesting that perhaps Vinnie was lending a helping hand from beyond.
This intriguing encounter certainly feels like a sign from Vinnie, reaffirming that his spirit remains alive in the hearts of those who knew him.
To wrap up this engaging episode, Gass and Kael also exchange stories about W.A.S.P.’s Blackie Lawless, adding another layer of rock history to their entertaining dialogue.
Be sure to watch the video below to dive deeper into this episode and hear even more fascinating stories in the full Beardo and Weirdo podcast.
Sharing Memorable Stories About Vinnie Paul
Discover the Beardo and Weirdo Podcast Experience
The Beardo and Weirdo podcast is hosted by comedian Craig Gass and the talented bassist Chris Kael, both of whom are passionate fans of rock and metal music. Together, they create an entertaining mix of laughter and personal anecdotes while tackling serious topics such as addiction and recovery, making their conversations both relatable and impactful.
New episodes are released every Thursday, ensuring that fans always have fresh content to look forward to.
Connect and Subscribe to the Beardo and Weirdo Podcast
Follow the Podcast:
Follow Craig Gass:
Follow Chris Kael:
Explore the Top 90 Hard Rock and Metal Albums from the 1990s
