The terms “super-group” and “short-lived” are invariably synonymous. Here’s the all-too-familiar tale:talented individuals from different bands join forces to a huge fanfare of hype and all is well. But then,a mere album/tour cycle or two later, the so-called “super-group” implodes and disappears. History has proven this irrefutable truth time and time again…
Thankfully, every rule has an exception, and HELLYEAH is a truly remarkable one–to the tune of 12 years, six albums, tireless touring, and a genuine brotherhood that’s as palpable off-stage as it is on.Unfortunately, as we are all acutely aware, the band’s story took a tragic twist on June 22, 2018, when world-renowned drummer Vinnie Paul left this mortal coil to be reunited with his beloved brother,Dime bag Darrell. Dauntless, the heartbroken HELLYEAH bravely soldiered on to complete the album Vinnie had already recorded his drum parts for–the outfit’s sixth offering, the brand new WelcomeHome. “The world deserves to hear Vinnie’s last piece of work,” lead guitarist Christian Brady states.“He was so proud of it. There was definitely a huge sense of responsibility to honor his legacy.”
HELLYEAH is the brainchild of Mudvayne front man Chad Gray and Nothing face founder Tom Maxwell.It became a reality in 2006, when the pair successfully convinced Vinnie Paul, the legendary drummer of Pantera and Damage plan, to pick up his sticks again after the tragic loss of his equally legendary brother. The first few times Chad and Tom asked Vinnie to join HELLYEAH, his answer was no. Years later, says Chad, Vinnie—sporting his trademark grin—told him that the two had been “’real persistent, and also had a really infectious, positive attitude,’so he eventually decided to give it a go.”Hard rock and metal fans all over the globe joyously celebrated Vinnie’s return, and HELLYEAH was immediately dubbed “a heavy metal super-group” by press and public alike.
