Sevendust guitarist John Connolly talks Gear, Dimebag, Trampolines & Tattoos!

The soaring and steady relevance of straight up hard rock and heavy metal isn't going anywhere. As a matter of fact, you ask any hard rock or metal fan and you'll get an earful about it's longevity and importance.

John Connolly
photo by Angela Villand

Leave it to 5 humble guys from the South to make a difference. They are called Sevendust, they are known by friends and fans as great guys that have a damn good time performing and writing music. They have always known they're blessed, just ask them; they'll tell anyone that Sevendust fans are not fans, they are Family. Those of us that have watched them "mature" over the years are excited that the world is catching on, so to speak. Those of you that discovered Sevendust in the past several years have most likely found yourself welcomed, with open arms, a hell yeah and raised horns by the rest of us!

This is no news to some of you, but John Connolly, one of the 2 Sevendust guitarists, was a long-time friend and fan of Dimebag Darrell (Pantera, Damage Plan). He looked up to him with both ears wide open, he thought he was crazy, yet admired the hell out of him in every way. Here, John speaks openly about Dime, shares some of his most humorous and favorite memories of the times they spent together. He also talks about the "old school" Sevendust "shit they pulled," (trampolines on stage), shares some gear insight, and talks about how he and the music he makes has changed and evolved through over a decade of jammin' with his band mates.

With COLD DAY MEMORY celebrating it's one year anniversary (last week, April 20 marked the 1 year milestone), you might think it's time for them to pack up and head home, head back to the studio.

No sir, and no ma'am. That's not how they do things, nor have they ever. They're on the road now, still...Oh yeah they take breaks, but then they hit the road again and keep on playing for the fans. For you.