Pantera's Walk is one of the most instantly recognisable and beloved metal songs of the '90s. The fourth single to be lifted from Pantera's sixth full-length record, Vulgar Display Of Power (which just turned 30), Walk is an undisputed groove metal classic, with an influence that runs deep throughout the heavy music world. The song's calling card, Dimebag Darrell's (R.I.P) opening riff, played in 12/8 is a surefire instant pit activator, while the stomping groove provided by bass player Rex Brown and drummer Vinnie Paul (R.I.P) has no doubt soundtracked countless aggressive walks be it into the octagon, into the gym or perhaps out of a workplace or relationship. Phil Anselmo's vocal delivery is an exercise in pure vitriol and disgust that cuts through the crushing Terry Date produced soundscape with an intensity few in metal have ever rivalled. The song's simple chorus hook of "Re-spect-walk" is powered by that venom and as anyone who has ever been to a karaoke bar with a group of metalheads can attest, it connects with people, from all walks of life on a very deep level.
Not surprisingly, it connects with other metalheads deeply too, many of whom have paid their respects to Walk by covering it throughout the years. With this in mind, we were inspired to pay our own respect to Walk by collating these five covers that showcase the mighty Pantera anthem's cross-generational influence.
Avenged Sevenfold
Brass Against
Dave Grohl, Corey Taylor, Scott Ian (w/Rex Brown, Charlie Benante)
Leo Moracchioli feat. Mr. Damage
The O'Keefe Music Foundation (feat. 8-year-old Taylor Jade Campbell on vocals)
If you're looking for more covers of this absolute jam, then check out Pete Cottrell's 1 Riff 20 Bands video for Walk below.
Listen to Vulgar Display Of Power now.
