Back in August, Phil Anselmo earned a massive amount of karma points for granting a cancer-stricken kid's wish to jam on "Walk" with the Pantera frontman. It was truly a touching moment that even made this metalhead have to run for the tissue box.
[youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BrTD7cDx6WI[/youtube]
Today, sadly, Phil delivered the news that the young fan, Peyton, has passed away.
Dammit… this one hurts deep. There’s been moments in my life that have been so extraordinarily positive, uplifting and unique, and I feel very lucky to be able to write those words. However, one of the most uplifting experiences had to have been meeting and jamming with Peyton. He was the bravest kid in the entire room when myself and The Illegals met him at our first gig ever in Oklahoma.
I was led to believe he was frail, weak and highly-guarded before we met, but he was anything but that deceptive description. He commanded the entire stage at soundcheck, he shredded on the axe, and completely blew us all away collectively with his quick wit, skills and charm. And when it was his turn to get up onstage come gig-time, he laid into that guitar with as much passion as most pros in the Heavy Metal biz today.
He will always be in our hearts. RIP little brother Peyton. You put love into our hearts. Our condolences go out to his brave family and friends everywhere.
With all my heart on behalf of many-
Philip H. Anselmo
A very classy statement by Phil and our deepest sympathies go out to Peyton's family.
