- September 21, 2023
Stone Temple Pilots Filling In For Pantera at Aftershock Festival
Pantera’s unexpected withdrawal from the Aftershock Festival has left fans disappointed. The band cited circumstances beyond their control, prompting STONE TEMPLE PILOTS to step in. Despite this setback, Aftershock 2023 boasts an impressive lineup, including GUNS N’ ROSES, TOOL, and more, promising an unforgettable experience for festival-goers.
PANTERA’s Unexpected Withdrawal
In an unexpected turn of events, PANTERA has regrettably canceled their scheduled appearance at this year’s Aftershock festival, slated to take place from October 5 to 8 at Discovery Park in Sacramento, California. The legendary metal band, known for its groundbreaking contributions to the genre, had been eagerly anticipated by fans. Fortunately, they won’t be left hanging, as STONE TEMPLE PILOTS have stepped in to fill the void.
PANTERA’s Statement
PANTERA communicated the unfortunate news to their fanbase via social media on Thursday, September 21. Their statement read, “Due to circumstances beyond our control, we will be unable to perform at this year’s edition of Aftershock next month. This event is monumental, and it pains us to have to miss it. We will, however, be back for Aftershock 2024! A sincere thank you to Danny Wimmer Presents as well as all the fans around the globe who’ve supported the 2023 PANTERA celebration. We will see you all at Louder Than Life this weekend and Aftershock next year!”
Aftershock 2023 Lineup
Aftershock 2023 was already shaping up to be a monumental event, featuring a star-studded lineup that includes GUNS N’ ROSES, TOOL, KORN, AVENGED SEVENFOLD, GODSMACK, INCUBUS, and MEGADETH, among others. Nearly 100 bands are set to grace the stage at this year’s festival. Aftershock, originally launched as a single-day festival in 2012, has grown to become one of the nation’s premier rock events.
Economic Impact and Success
The significance of Aftershock extends beyond music, with a substantial economic impact. The 2022 edition of the festival contributed $26.7 million to the local economy, including over $1.5 million in tax revenues and support for 7,181 jobs. This reflects the festival’s role as a driving force in the region’s cultural and economic landscape.
PANTERA’s 2023 Lineup
PANTERA’s 2023 lineup features two surviving members from the band’s classic formation: Philip Anselmo (vocals) and Rex Brown (bass). They are joined by acclaimed guitarist Zakk Wylde (known for his work with OZZY OSBOURNE and BLACK LABEL SOCIETY) and drummer Charlie Benante (of ANTHRAX fame). The reformed PANTERA embarked on a U.S. headlining tour alongside LAMB OF GOD, commencing on July 28 at The Pavilion at Star Lake in Burgettstown, Pennsylvania.
Global Touring and METALLICA Support
Anselmo, Brown, Wylde, and Benante are set to headline numerous major festivals across South America, Asia, North America, and Europe, in addition to staging their own headline concerts. Notably, they will also support METALLICA on an extensive North American stadium tour scheduled for 2023 and 2024.
A Green Light from the Estates
Billboard reports that the lineup received approval from the estates of PANTERA’s founders, drummer Vincent “Vinnie Paul” Abbott and guitarist “Dimebag” Darrell Abbott. This is particularly significant given that Rex Brown had previously indicated that Zakk Wylde wouldn’t tour with PANTERA if a reunion were to occur. The exact circumstances surrounding this change remain undisclosed.
The Tragic PANTERA History
The history of PANTERA is marred by tragedy. Vinnie Paul and Dimebag co-founded the band, and when PANTERA disbanded in 2003, they formed DAMAGEPLAN. On December 8, 2004, during a performance with DAMAGEPLAN at the Alrosa Villa in Columbus, Ohio, Dimebag was tragically shot and killed onstage by a disturbed individual who believed that the members of PANTERA were invading his thoughts.
Vinnie Paul passed away on June 22, 2018, in Las Vegas at the age of 54. His death resulted from dilated cardiomyopathy, characterized by an enlarged heart and severe coronary artery disease. It was a result of chronic weakening of the heart muscle, making it incapable of efficiently pumping blood.
PANTERA’s legacy continues, and while the Aftershock cancellation is undoubtedly disappointing, fans can look forward to future performances and celebrate the enduring impact of this iconic band.
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