Pantera, Metallica, King Diamond members and more paid tribute to Vinnie Paul

Vinnie Paul, another metal icon that is gone too soon, has shocked the entire community as many have shared their reactions on social media. While we still don’t know the official cause of death, it’s been reported that the 54-year-old Pantera/HellYeah drummer had a heart attack and died in his sleep on Friday night (22nd). People are still digesting and processing about this massive loss, especially from his family, friends, and loved ones who are still asking to give them time to grieve.

Abbott’s former Pantera bandmates Philip Anselmo and Rex Brown are having a hard time putting his death into words as well. Anselmo dedicated his Facebook by changing his main profile picture to a lit candle in memory of his departed friend.

Brown expressed how painful the last few days have been for him:

“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!”

Meanwhile, rockers continue to compose their thoughts and a few paid tribute to the late drummer:

Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich shared his reaction:

“Thank you for all the good times, Vinnie…your incredible hospitality and warm vibe was infectious and inspiring. Here’s to another shot of Crown Royal and a next level game of air hockey down the road! RIP, brother. Much love.”

Thank you for all the good times, Vinnie…your incredible hospitality and warm vibe was infectious and inspiring. Here’s to another shot of Crown Royal and a next level game of air hockey down the road! RIP, brother. Much love. ❤ pic.twitter.com/ehNXoO88jY

— Lars Ulrich (@larsulrich) June 23, 2018

King Diamond shared the following message:

“So sad, what a loss. Another true metalhead has left us way too soon.

Vinnie and Pantera were some of the first people to welcome me with open arms when I first moved to Dallas in 1992. Had so many great times together.

Here’s a photo of Vinnie dressed as me during a Hellyeah halloween show.

To me, that was the coolest.

I will miss you, friend.

Rest In Peace.

I know Dime is waiting for you.”

Styx took a moment to share their thoughts:

“So sad to hear about the passing of Vinnie Paul. We met when JY and I joined him on Eddie Trunk’s “That Metal Show” on March 17, 2012. We were immediately taken by his good nature, humility and sense of humor. There are few stories in Rock that can rival what Vinnie Paul experienced. From mega success to tragedy, he was amazingly unaffected by it all.

I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to spend time with him that day and wish his friends and family comfort as they mourn his loss.

Rock on Vinnie Paul!

Respectfully,

Tommy Shaw”

Watch Bad Wolves perform a cover of Pantera’s “Sandlbasted Skin” in honor of Vinnie Paul:

Nita Strauss (Alice Cooper) and Nick Bowcott (Grim Reaper) paid tribute to Vinnie Paul on Saturday (23rd) at Sweetwater Gearfest in Fort Wayne, IN by performing the Pantera cover of “Walk.”