Anthrax And The Tribute Show Where They Covered Pantera With Vinnie Paul Watching

April 3, 2025

It was a warm summer night in 2023 when the legendary thrash metal band Anthrax took the stage at a packed venue in Dallas, Texas. The energy in the air was electric, filled with the anticipation of fans eager to witness a special tribute show in honor of the late Pantera drummer, Vinnie Paul. Vinnie had been a colossal figure in heavy metal, inspiring countless musicians with his thunderous beats and powerful performances. As Anthrax prepared to honor him, the band members felt a mix of excitement and nervousness, knowing that they were stepping into the shoes of a true legend.

The spotlight beamed down as the band launched into “Walk,” one of Pantera’s most iconic songs. As the thunderous guitar riffs filled the room, Anthrax’s frontman, Joey Belladonna, closed his eyes and let the music wash over him. It wasn’t just about playing a great show; it was about paying homage to a drummer whose creativity and energy had inspired him since childhood. The crowd erupted in cheers, and Joey could see familiar faces in the front row, many holding up signs that read “For Vinnie!” and “Pantera Forever!” The love in the room felt overwhelming, a powerful reminder of how music can unite people even in grief.

As Anthrax moved through the set, they also played “Mouth for War,” a heavy hitter that had everyone screaming the lyrics in unison. The band fed off the crowd’s energy, transcending the sadness surrounding Vinnie’s passing. They knew that he would be watching from somewhere above, proud of their tribute and the way they embraced his legacy. Scott Ian, the band’s guitarist, took a moment during the concert to share a personal story about Vinnie, recalling the times when they had hung out together at festivals. “He had this contagious laughter; it made everything feel lighter,” Scott said, his voice thick with emotion. The audience felt that bond as they cheered louder, celebrating not just the music but the man behind the drums.

As the show continued, it became clear that this night was more than just a tribute; it was a celebration of resilience. Anthrax had faced their own challenges over the years, from lineup changes to struggles in the music industry. But each time they persevered, they did so with the same passion that drove Vinnie and the rest of Pantera. The spirit of heavy metal was alive and well that night, a testament to how music can carry us through hard times and inspire us to keep pushing forward.

The night culminated in a stunning finale as Anthrax played “Cemetery Gates,” a song that perfectly encapsulated the bittersweet emotion of remembering someone you love. People in the audience held up their phones, creating a sea of lights that twinkled like stars. It was a beautiful moment of connection between the band and the crowd, reflecting the shared memories and love for Pantera’s music. As they took their final bow, Joey looked out into the sea of faces and felt gratitude wash over him. They had not only honored Vinnie Paul that night but also reignited the flame of hope and passion in the hearts of their fans.

After the show, many attendees shared their feelings on social media, expressing how Anthrax’s tribute had helped them cope with their own memories of loss. For the band, it wasn’t just another concert; it was a pivotal moment that reminded them why they had chosen music as their life. As they packed up their gear, they knew they had left a mark, one that would resonate far beyond that night. Together, they had created a powerful moment that celebrated not only Vinnie Paul but also the enduring spirit of rock and roll, reminding everyone that music has the power to heal and bring us together, even in the most difficult times.