Pantera Announce Celebration of Life
Service for Vinnie Paul
Pantera posted Wednesday on social media the details of their planned “Public Celebration of Life” for co-founder and drummer Vinnie Paul who passed away last week of a heart attack.
Vincent Paul Abbott aka Vinnie Paul has passed away at age 54. Paul is best known for his work as the drummer in the bands Pantera and Hellyeah.
The Las Vegas Review-Journal newspaper is reporting that Pantera drummer and co-founder Vinnie Paul died from a “major heart attack,” citing “sources who knew” the musician. Vinnie Paul passed away in his sleep on Friday, June 22, at his home in Las Vegas. Vinnie‘s body has been turned over to the medical examiner to determine an official cause of death, after which his body will be flown to Texas to be buried between his mother and brother, the late “Dimebag” Darrell.
Musicians around the world have been paying tribute to Paul, many of whom were at last weekend’s Hellfest in France.
Megadeth played a rare live performance of “My Last Words,” with leader Dave Mustaine saying, “We haven’t played this song for a very long time. We dedicated it to a friend of mine – all of ours — who passed away. This song is dedicated to you, Vinnie.”
Others at Hellfest paying tribute were Avenged Sevenfold (“Hail To The King”) and Alice in Chains, who played an emotional version of “Nutshell” in the drummer’s honor.
Terribly saddened by the news of Vinnie Paul’s passing. Vinnie was a beloved fixture in the rock and metal communities and we will miss seeing him out on the road. His impact on heavy music is immeasurable. Rest In Peace Vinnie, condolences to your family, friends and fans.
— Alice Cooper (@alicecooper) June 23, 2018
The last few days have been very difficult & 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! pic.twitter.com/55DJFpKCqR
— REX BROWN (@REJASFROMTEJAS) June 24, 2018
Damn it. I love you brother. RIP Vinnie Paul. https://t.co/73fTmNLA2F
— Scott Ian (@Scott_Ian) June 23, 2018
Vinnie was a great friend. My heart is aching. My prayers and condolences go out to his family, band and crew. Godspeed my friend. #VinniePaul pic.twitter.com/lY8JdvveBE
— Bret Michaels (@bretmichaels) June 23, 2018
Tragic news about Vinnie Paul today. He was one of the warmest people I knew. A truly good & fun friend. We’re going to miss you more than you could possibly have known. RIP buddy. https://t.co/yQqruY4tio
— Slash (@Slash) June 23, 2018
RIP Vinnie Paul. Friend. Humorist. Badass drummer. All-around good man. Condolences to the family. You will be missed bro…
— Duff McKagan (@DuffMcKagan) June 23, 2018
Rock in peace Vinnie Paul
Say hi to brother Dime from all of us
We love you . Wish you were still here. Gone too soon man . Thanks for the music. And more importantly 30 years of non stop friendship. How rare is that In this business? I’m really gonna miss you 💕 pic.twitter.com/LUY41pzC0l— Sebastian Bach (@sebastianbach) June 23, 2018
So sad to hear of the death of Vinnie Paul. Loved when Pantera did shows with us and in later years Vinnie was always front and center at all KISS shows. RIP and condolences to his family. https://t.co/DaQREBNVW7
— Paul Stanley (@PaulStanleyLive) June 23, 2018
I like the Megadeth and Alice In Chains videos. Thanks for sharing House Of Hair.