Chad Gray, the frontman of MUDVAYNE and former member of HELLYEAH alongside Vinnie Paul Abbott, shared his thoughts on the recent reunion of PANTERA’s surviving members with guitarist Zakk Wylde and drummer Charlie Benante. While acknowledging the excitement among fans to see the band’s classic songs performed live, Gray emphasized the conflicting emotions he feels about the reunion.
During an appearance on The Jesea Lee Show, Gray recalled Vinnie Paul’s staunch opposition to a PANTERA reunion following his brother Dimebag Darrell’s tragic passing. Despite understanding the appeal of seeing PANTERA’s music live again, Gray struggled to fully embrace the reunion due to his respect for Vinnie Paul’s wishes.
Reflecting on his personal connection with Vinnie Paul, Gray expressed difficulty in reconciling the reunion with the drummer’s stance. He highlighted the significance of honoring Vinnie Paul’s memory and respecting his perspective on the matter.
Gray acknowledged the talent and sincerity of Zakk Wylde and Charlie Benante, who are filling pivotal roles in the revived PANTERA lineup. However, he reiterated the importance of acknowledging the absence of Vinnie Paul and Dimebag Darrell in any future endeavors bearing the PANTERA name.
Philip Anselmo and Rex Brown, the other surviving members of PANTERA, have expressed their enthusiasm for the reunion and their gratitude toward Wylde and Benante for their contributions. They see the reunion as a celebration of PANTERA’s legacy and an opportunity to connect with fans in a meaningful way.
Despite Vinnie Paul’s previous dismissals of the possibility of a PANTERA reunion, Anselmo and Brown believe that continuing to perform PANTERA’s music honors their fallen bandmates’ memory and legacy.
The complex emotions surrounding the PANTERA reunion reflect the enduring impact of the band’s music and the profound loss experienced by its members and fans alike. While the reunion offers a chance to relive the band’s glory days, it also serves as a reminder of the irreplaceable contributions of Vinnie Paul and Dimebag Darrell to the metal genre.
