Pantera Shake Philadelphia to Its Core with Unforgettable “Walk” Performance – May 25, 2025
On May 25, 2025, Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia was ground zero for one of the most unforgettable nights in modern metal history. As part of Metallica’s massive M72 World Tour, the legendary band Pantera stepped onto the stage, not as an opening act, but as a full-force sonic storm. What followed was a night that welded nostalgia with raw power, especially during their iconic performance of “Walk.”
Pantera’s lineup — Phil Anselmo, Rex Brown, Zakk Wylde, and Charlie Benante — exploded into “Walk” with an intensity that rivaled their early ‘90s heyday. The moment Zakk Wylde’s guitar tore into the iconic opening riff, fists went up across the stadium. The crowd’s energy shifted palpably, erupting into synchronized chants of “RE! SPECT!” that shook the ground.
The decision to resurrect Pantera for this tour, with surviving members joined by two of metal’s most respected musicians, had been met with curiosity and emotion. But by the time “Walk” hit its first chorus, any skepticism vanished. It wasn’t a cover, and it wasn’t a tribute. It was Pantera, resurrected — and very much alive.
Metallica and Pantera share a long, intertwined legacy. From Dimebag Darrell’s legendary jam sessions with James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett to the influence Pantera’s groove-laden riffs had on Metallica’s evolution, this collaboration felt not only fitting, but overdue. That shared past echoed through every note of “Walk” that night.
This was no ordinary performance; it was a moment of communion between the band and its audience. Phil Anselmo, standing tall and defiant, led the crowd like a general. His voice, scarred but strong, channeled every ounce of aggression and triumph the song was meant to deliver. Fans — some of whom weren’t even born when “Walk” was first released — screamed every lyric back at him.
What made the night even more extraordinary was the “No Repeat Weekend” concept of the M72 tour. With each night offering a unique setlist and surprise moments, fans in Philly knew they were witnessing something that wouldn’t happen again. When Metallica later joined Pantera for a surprise appearance, the stadium lost control in the best way.
The sight of Metallica’s Kirk Hammett and Pantera’s Zakk Wylde onstage together trading riffs was pure fan fantasy. Wylde’s blazing leads met Hammett’s wah-drenched solos in a duel of styles and spirit. The chemistry was instant — two guitar heroes honoring a lost friend, Dimebag Darrell, by melting the faces of 60,000 screaming fans.
The stage production was equally unmatched. Massive LED screens, synchronized pyrotechnics, and surround-sound speaker towers delivered a visceral experience. During “Walk,” flames erupted in time with the song’s stomping rhythm, casting long shadows that made the band appear ten feet tall and bulletproof.
Rex Brown’s basslines thundered beneath the surface, locking in with Charlie Benante’s relentless drumming. Together, they rebuilt the rhythmic foundation that made Pantera the titans of groove metal. Even purists who doubted the reunion couldn’t argue with the power of what they saw and heard in Philadelphia.
Throughout the show, the camaraderie between the bands was evident. During quieter moments, members of Metallica were seen watching side stage, banging their heads and raising their fists like the fans they once were. At one point, James Hetfield mouthed the words “that’s how it’s done,” as Pantera roared through the chorus.
Concertgoers left drenched in sweat and awe, buzzing with disbelief at what they’d just experienced. Many described it as the best show they’d seen in decades. For younger fans, it was a first taste of what heavy metal used to feel like. For older fans, it was a revival of something they feared was lost.
This show wasn’t just about Pantera and Metallica — it was about legacy, resilience, and the unbreakable bond between performers and their tribe. From the parking lot tailgates to the final encore, every person in Lincoln Financial Field felt part of something historic.
Merch booths sold out before the second encore. Fans clutched posters, limited-edition shirts, and commemorative vinyl, knowing full well they were walking away with more than souvenirs — they had proof they’d lived through a night that would be etched in metal history.
As the M72 Tour rolls on, fans around the globe now buzz with anticipation: will Pantera and Metallica join forces again? If Philadelphia was any indication, lightning might just strike twice. But for those there on May 25, no future date could match what happened under that roaring, electric sky.
The legacy of “Walk” was reborn in a new era — not softened by time, but hardened by it. In a world where live music is often filtered and safe, Pantera brought danger and truth back to the stage. And with Metallica by their side, they reminded us why we came to love this genre in the first place.
