Yahoo News Pantera's Vinnie Paul dies aged 54
Pantera rocker Vinnie Paul has passed away aged 54.
The musician's death was confirmed via the band's Facebook page earlier today (June 23).
"Vincent Paul Abbott aka Vinnie Paul has passed away. Paul is best known for his work as the drummer in the bands Pantera and Hellyeah," a statement read.
"No further details are available at this time. The family requests you please respect their privacy during this time."
A native of Texas, the drummer was also part of the heavy metal supergroup Hellyeah, with guitarist Tom Maxwell also posting a tribute via the band's Facebook page.
"Just so broken hearted and in shock. I'm struggling to write this but we want to thank you all for your kind words and support in this tragic time," he wrote.
"Sadness, shock, confusion, anger, despair. We feel it all together. Hug your loved ones and keep them close. Thank you all again for all your love. Vinnie will be and is greatly loved and missed but his music will live forever. Crank it loud today and scream to the heavens so he can hear you."
Hellyeah's current record label, Eleven Seven Music have also shared a touching message in response to Vinnie's passing, which states: "Vinnie Paul Abbott wasn't just a drummer, he was an iconic fixture in the metal and hard rock community, a pioneer, and an absolute legend.
"Whether fans were turning their volume to 11 or head-banging their hearts out at live shows, Vinnie was an inspiration...
"Today, the world not only lost a legend, but also a genuine human being who lived to put a smile on the faces of everyone he met."
Paul was a self taught drummer who went on to win many awards for his impeccable skills throughout his career.
A number of other tributes flooded in from the music community, including messages from Blink 182's Travis Barker, Gene Simmons and Alice Cooper;
Rest In Peace Vinnie Paul. Heaven has Dimebag and Vinnie now 🙏🏻#RIPVINNIEPAUL
- Travis Barker (@travisbarker) June 23, 2018
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
Gutted to hear about the nicest guy in metal passing. Vinnie Paul showed us nothing but love. We'll miss you Vinnie.
- Papa Roach (@paparoach) 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
Rest in peace, Vinnie. Our prayers and good wishes go to his family, friends and fans. https://t.co/iXQ4Hum9lT
- Gene Simmons (@genesimmons) 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
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
Sad 2 hear of Vinnie Paul of #Pantera passing…great guy…RIP
- Billy Idol (@BillyIdol) June 23, 2018
Our thoughts are with his friends and family.
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