Pantera - Vinnie Paul & Charlie Benante Drummer History | MetalForge
Pantera, formed in 1981, defined groove metal with Vinnie Paul's powerful drumming.
Complete history of Pantera drummers from Vinnie Paul to Charlie Benante.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the drummer for Pantera?
Vinnie Paul Abbott was Pantera's drummer and co-founder from 1981 until the band's 2003 breakup, playing on every studio album. He died in 2018. Since the band's 2022 reunion tour, Anthrax drummer Charlie Benante has filled the drum seat as a touring musician.
Is Pantera still an active band making new music?
Pantera reunited for touring in 2022-2023 with Phil Anselmo and Rex Brown alongside Zakk Wylde (guitar) and Charlie Benante (drums) standing in for the late Abbott brothers. As of 2026 there are no new studio recordings; Benante has said there are no plans for new Pantera music, though a live album documenting the reunion lineup has been discussed.
Why did the original Pantera lineup end?
The Abbott brothers effectively ended Pantera in November 2003 following tensions with Phil Anselmo. Any chance of reconciliation ended when guitarist Dimebag Darrell was murdered on stage on December 8, 2004.
Did Pantera always play groove metal?
No. Pantera's first four albums (Metal Magic, Projects in the Jungle, I Am the Night, Power Metal), released 1983-1988 on their own Metal Magic Records with Terry Glaze on vocals, were glam/power metal. The band's sound shifted to the groove metal style it's known for starting with Cowboys from Hell (1990), its major-label debut with Phil Anselmo.
Who played drums on Pantera's "Metal Magic"?
Vinnie Paul played drums on "Metal Magic" (1983).
Who played drums on Pantera's "Reinventing the Steel"?
Vinnie Paul played drums on "Reinventing the Steel" (2000).