After the shocking news broke that Vinnie Paul, famed metal drummer and founding member of Pantera, had died at the age of 54 on Saturday Morning (June 23), fans were devastated and expressed their grief across social media.
Below, friends and colleagues — including Paul Stanley of Kiss, Dave Mustaine of Megadeth, Travis Barker and many more — reflect on the loss of Paul.
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
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
GOD BLESS VINNIE PAUL – 1964-2O18 – FATHER VINNIE,Your Compassion for others & Your Love for seeing everyone around you Happy I will never forget – Your Heart of Gold Made The World a Better Place – Go be w/Your BELOVED BROTHER – I LOVE YOU – tBLSt SDMF pic.twitter.com/8VC3T3hQa2
— Zakk Wylde (@ZakkWyldeBLS) 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
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
I just woke up in Belgium to the news that my friend Vinnie Paul has passed away. Another metal hero taken too soon. Say hello to Daryl for me. Rest In Peace, my dear friend. @Pantera @hellyeahband #vinniepaul
— Dave Mustaine (@DaveMustaine) June 23, 2018
Can’t believe it.
R.I.P to our brother Vinnie Paul. https://t.co/In2Dlmmfq5— Anthrax (Band) (@Anthrax) June 23, 2018
Rest In Peace Vinnie Paul. Heaven has Dimebag and Vinnie now —-#RIPVINNIEPAUL
— Travis Barker (@travisbarker) June 23, 2018
Jam Pantera right now. RIP Vinnie Paul.
— The Sword (@TheSword) June 23, 2018
I have just heard about the legend Vinnie Paul’s passing. I am beyond gutted about this as he welcomed me with open arms early in my musical career. Thank you for so many great memories and so many legendary songs. You will be truly missed — #legend
— CC (@ccbvb) 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
I just got off the stage when I heard the news. I’m heartbroken. Don’t even know what to say other than my thoughts are with his family and fans. We just took this photo a few months ago. In shock. #RIPVinniePaul #vinniepaul pic.twitter.com/0FiFSO68RA
— Sagan Amery (@SaganAmery) June 23, 2018