Music world pays tribute to Vinnie Paul

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Artists from across rock and metal pay tribute to former Pantera drummer Vinnie Paul, who has died at the age of 54

Vinnie Paul
(Image credit: ob Monk/Metal Hammer)

Artists from across the rock and metal world have united to pay tribute to drummer Vinnie Paul, who has died at the age of 54.

The former Pantera musician died early on Saturday morning, with the Las Vegas Review-Journal reporting that he passed away in the city. An official cause of death has yet to be released.

His Pantera bassist bandmate Rex Brown issued a brief statement on Twitter, while vocalist Phil Anselmo posted an image of a lit candle on his Instagram account.

Brown said: "The last few days have been very difficult and painful. At this time, I need more time to process my feelings. 

"Thank you for all the love that has been sent. A formal press release will be coming shortly. Rest In Peace Brother Vinnie!

Among the artists to pay tribute to Vinnie Paul include Anthrax pair Scott Ian and Charlie Benante, Devin Townsend, DJ Ashba, Brian Tichy, John Corabi, Posion duo Bret Michaels and Rikki Rockett, Carmine Appice, Papa Roach, Matt Sorum, Jeff Scott Soto and Sebastian Bach, who posted a tearful video on Twitter.

Papa Roach said: "Gutted to hear about the nicest guy in metal passing. Vinnie Paul showed us nothing but love. We'll miss you Vinnie."

Tichy commented: "A huge inspiration, a friend for decades... I don’t know what to say. He will be missed by so many."

Former Guns N' Roses drummer Sorum calls him “a monster of a drummer” and added: "Thanks for all the good times and the hospitality at The Clubhouse in Dallas . A true Rock'n'roll spirit that will be truly missed.”

Find some of the social media tributes below.

A post shared by Philip H Anselmo (@philiphanselmo)

A photo posted by on on Jun 23, 2018 at 7:18pm PDT

Scott Munro
Scott Munro
Louder e-commerce editor

Scott has spent 35 years in newspapers, magazines and online as an editor, production editor, sub-editor, designer, writer and reviewer. Scott joined our news desk in the summer of 2014 before moving into e-commerce in 2020. Scott keeps Louder’s buyer’s guides up to date, writes about the best deals for music fans, keeps on top of the latest tech releases and reviews headphones, speakers, earplugs and more for Louder. Over the last 10 years, Scott has written more than 11,000 articles across Louder, Classic Rock, Metal Hammer and Prog. He's previously written for publications including IGN, Sunday Mirror, Daily Record and The Herald, covering everything from daily news and weekly features, to tech reviews, video games, travel and whisky. Scott's favourite bands are Fields Of The Nephilim, The Cure, New Model Army, All About Eve, The Mission, Cocteau Twins, Drab Majesty, The Tragically Hip, Marillion and Rush.