Ben Weinman (The Dillinger Escape Plan) Interview | Ryan Minic, Ryan's Rock Show

In an interview with Ryan Minic of Ryan’s Rock Show, Ben Weinman of The Dillinger Escape Plan shared wild tour stories, early music experiences, and his journey through the industry. He recalled touring Europe with System of a Down when the band was at their peak, playing to massive crowds that weren’t always receptive to Dillinger’s chaotic sound. At one show, a fan threw a chicken sandwich at frontman Greg Puciato, which miraculously landed in his hand mid-performance. Despite playing to thousands, their merch sales were dismal, sometimes selling only a couple of shirts per night.

Weinman also reflected on his first band, Legend, where he played covers of Queensrÿche and Skid Row. Although short-lived, the experience was formative and pushed him toward a career in music. He also shared how he received his first guitar as a bar mitzvah gift, never imagining it would lead to auditioning for Nine Inch Nails. His Nine Inch Nails tryout involved learning nine songs in nine hours, an intense experience where he got a firsthand look at Trent Reznor’s high standards and no-nonsense professionalism. Reznor later attended a Dillinger show with a bodyguard, surprising everyone at a small punk club.

Beyond Dillinger, Weinman discussed his unexpected ventures in the music industry, including remixing songs for Lou Pearlman’s boy band factory and managing Jeffree Star during the early days of his music career. He helped Star transition from internet fame to a touring artist, securing major festival performances and monetizing his brand.

Weinman also shared bizarre Dillinger tour stories, from fans trading bodily fluids for vinyl records to people having sex onstage while the band warmed up. He claimed their road experiences would make Motley Crüe’s infamous tales seem tame in comparison. Throughout the conversation, he emphasized his love for music, his fascination with owls, and the importance of keeping things unpredictable in Dillinger’s world.

Posted here: http://www.ryansrockshow.com/intervie...