Korn's Brian "Head" Welch: "Vinnie Paul Was the Kindest Living Legend I've Ever Met" | Page 2 | Revolver

Korn's Brian "Head" Welch: "Vinnie Paul Was the Kindest Living Legend I've Ever Met"

Guitarist remembers surprise gifts from Pantera drummer — including Paul McCartney–signed bass
korn head GETTY 2017, C Brandon/Redferns
Korn's Brian "Head" Welch, 2017
photograph by C Brandon/Redferns

Vinnie Paul, co-founding drummer of the revered Texas metal band Pantera, has died. Paul was 54. Since news of Paul's passing broke, his hard-rock and metal peers have shared their shock, sadness and condolences via social media. These include Korn guitarist Brian "Head" Welch:

"My God, we have lost another friend. I don't understand what is happening. The music world has been completely shaken by too many pre-mature deaths the last few years, its horrible," he wrote on Instagram.

"Vinnie Paul was definitely the kindest living legend I've ever met. He endured so much tragedy, yet still had so much more love and positivity. Truly a kind soul with such a giving heart. Just in the last couple years he surprised Korn with some cool gifts. Right after we walked off stage in Dallas we were shocked to find a brand new thundering loud stereo blaring music in our dressing room as we walked in – compliments of Vinnie Paul. And on our European tour with HELLYEAH Vinnie surprised Fieldy with a brand new bass... signed by Paul McCartney. That's the type of person he was. 

"Vinnie, you were one-of-a-kind and will be so missed by countless people. 

"God, let your unconditional love and mercy bring Vinnie Paul back together with his brother, and be with his family through this devastating loss."