HELLYEAH's record label Eleven Seven Music has released a statement regarding the passing of Vinnie Paul Abbott, calling him "an iconic fixture in the metal and hard rock community, a pioneer and an absolute legend." The HELLYEAH drummer, who was a founding member of the influential metal band PANTERA, died on Friday in Las Vegas, where he owned a home. He was 54 years old. No cause of death has yet been revealed. Eleven Seven Music's statement reads as follows: "Vinnie Paul Abbott wasn't just a drummer, he was an iconic fixture in the metal and hard rock community, a pioneer, and an absolute legend. He was a self-taught drummer who went on to win many awards for his impeccable skills throughout his career. "A founding member of PANTERA, DAMAGEPLAN and his current band HELLYEAH, Vinnie was a vital force for bands and millions of fans worldwide. Whether fans were turning their volume to 11 or headbanging their hearts out at live shows, Vinnie was an inspiration. "His most recent release, HELLYEAH's 'Unden!able', contained three hit singles, thanks to support from SiriusXM's Octane. 'All of us at Octane are so broken hearted to hear of the passing of our brother Vinnie Paul. We sent love to his family, band members and fans. You will be missed. Thinking of you reunited and rockin' with Dime… Rest in peace, Vinnie Paul Abbott,' Octane released in a statement. "Today, the world not only lost a legend, but also a genuine human being who lived to put a smile on the faces of everyone he met. May he be reunited with his brother as we all strive to continue his legacy. "Eleven Seven Music is heartbroken. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, bandmates, friends, and fans through this difficult time." Shortly before his death, Vinnie laid down the drum tracks for HELLYEAH's sixth album at The Hideout recording studio in Las Vegas. It is not presently clear when those recordings will see the light of day.
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