Vincent Paul Abbott—better known as Vinnie Paul, drummer of the heavy metal band Pantera—passed away on June 22, 2018. He remains one of the most influential heavy metal drummers.

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Vinnie Paul

Vincent Paul Abbott was born on March 11, 1964, in Abilene, Texas. He grew up in Arlington, attending Bowie High School. Upon joining band as a kid, he originally started playing the tuba. His dad, musician and producer Jerry Abbott, suggested that he try the drums instead. Vinnie quickly decided that the drums were indeed cooler and stuck with the sticks.

Vinnie and his younger brother Darrell, later known as Dimebag Darrell, formed Pantera in Arlington in the early 1980s. The band rose to prominence with their 1990 album “Cowboys From Hell” and would become one of the most popular and influential heavy metal bands of the decade.

Vinnie Paul
Photo Credit: Brett J. Derbes and Texas State Historical Association

Vinnie Paul’s drumming was a cornerstone of Pantera’s groove metal sound, defined by his sheer power, pinpoint precision, and undeniable style. He left an indelible mark on countless drummers, who often cite his influence due to his thunderous sound, lightning-fast playing, deceptively simple yet effective grooves, and intricate fills. His ability to blend blistering speed with a keen sense of space between notes made him a truly unique and impactful musician.

Vinnie Paul in action
Photo Credit: Modern Drummer

He later drummed for the bands Rebel Meets Rebel, Damageplan, and HELLYEAH. Larger-than-life and always the life of the party, Vinnie was well-loved by his fans and well-respected by his peers.

Vinnie Paul died on June 22, 2018, at age 54, at his home in Las Vegas. He was buried next to Dimebag at Moore Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Arlington.

Vinnie Paul and Dimebag Darrell gravesites
Arlington, Texas

Fort Worth Star-Telegram – June 26, 2018

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Blog post by Jason S. Sullivan, 06-22-25