Jump to content

Megadeth

From Alfawiki
Megadeth
Company typeBand
IndustryMusic
FoundedApril 11, 1983; 43 years ago (1983-04-11) in Los Angeles, United States
FounderDave Mustaine
Headquarters
Los Angeles
,
United States
ProductsThrash metal music, studio albums, live performances
Number of employees
5 (current members)
Websitemegadeth.com

Megadeth is a thrash metal group from the United States, established in Los Angeles in 1983 by vocalist and guitarist Dave Mustaine. Renowned for their intricate guitar techniques and musical proficiency, Megadeth stands as one of the "big four" American thrash metal bands—alongside Slayer, Anthrax, and Metallica—and played a significant role in shaping and advancing the genre. Their sound is characterized by complex compositions, rapid rhythm sections, twin lead guitars, and lyrical themes encompassing warfare, politics, religion, mortality, and interpersonal dynamics.

Megadeth's debut album, Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good!, was released in 1985 through the independent label Combat Records, achieving modest acclaim. This success secured a contract with Capitol Records. Their first major-label release, Peace Sells... but Who's Buying? (1986), gained substantial traction within the underground metal community. Despite facing negative attention due to substance abuse and internal conflicts during the late 1980s, Megadeth produced multiple platinum-certified albums such as So Far, So Good... So What! (1988), Rust in Peace (1990), and Countdown to Extinction (1992). These releases and international tours broadened their audience. Their latest album, The Sick, the Dying... and the Dead!, came out in 2022. On August 14, 2025, Mustaine revealed that their seventeenth studio album, Megadeth, along with its supporting tour, will mark the band's final chapter.

Over their extensive career spanning several decades, Megadeth has undergone numerous lineup transformations with Mustaine remaining the only consistent member. The group temporarily disbanded in 2002 following Mustaine’s arm injury but reassembled in 2004 without longtime bassist David Ellefson, who had initiated legal proceedings against Mustaine. Ellefson returned in 2010 but was dismissed again in 2021 amid allegations of sexual misconduct. The current roster features Mustaine alongside bassist James LoMenzo, guitarist Teemu Mäntysaari, and drummer Dirk Verbeuren.

Megadeth boasts five platinum certifications in the United States from sixteen studio albums and has been nominated for twelve Grammy Awards. They secured their first Grammy win in 2017 for "Dystopia" under Best Metal Performance. Their mascot, Vic Rattlehead, regularly appears on album covers and during live performances. Between 2005 and 2013, Megadeth organized the music festival Gigantour multiple times and launched their inaugural MegaCruise event in October 2019. To date, the band has sold over 50 million albums worldwide.

1983–1985: Formation and Killing Is My Business

On April 11, 1983, Dave Mustaine was removed from Metallica shortly before their debut album Kill 'Em All due to issues related to substance abuse and disagreements with James Hetfield. Having served as Metallica's lead guitarist since 1981, Mustaine contributed early songwriting efforts and influenced the band's live shows. Motivated by a desire for retribution, he set out to create a band that would be faster and heavier than Metallica. Inspired by a pamphlet mentioning "megadeath," he modified the term to "Megadeth," symbolizing the destruction of authority.

Upon returning to Los Angeles, Mustaine formed Fallen Angels in April 1983 with Lor Kane on vocals, Robby McKinney on guitar, and Matt Kisselstein handling bass duties. Drummer Dijon Carruthers joined shortly thereafter. The group adopted the name Megadeth upon Kane’s suggestion. Mustaine then recruited neighbors David Ellefson on bass and Greg Handevidt on guitar. A demo was recorded featuring Richard Girod as drummer. After Metallica's debut release, they reworked several songs; "Mechanix" remained the sole track from Mustaine’s Metallica period included on Megadeth’s debut album. Early compositions from 1983 included "No Time" (an early version of "Set the World Afire"), "Self Destruct" ("Mary Jane"), and "Speak No Evil" ("Looking Down the Cross").

Handevidt left after a few months; subsequently, Mustaine and Ellefson developed a strong musical collaboration. They auditioned approximately fifteen drummers capable of handling complex time signatures. Following stints with Carruthers and Girod, Lee Rauch joined towards the end of 1983. Slayer guitarist Kerry King briefly rehearsed with them during this period.

Temporary vocalists included Billy Bonds and later John Cyriis, who went on to form Agent Steel. After six months without settling on a lead singer, Mustaine assumed vocal duties himself.

In 1984, Megadeth recorded a three-track demo titled Last Rites, featuring Mustaine, Ellefson, and Rauch. This demo contained early versions of "Last Rites/Loved to Death," "The Skull Beneath the Skin," and "Mechanix."

Unable to secure a second guitarist at that time, King stepped in for several San Francisco performances in early 1984, including their debut show on February 17 at Ruthie's Inn, Berkeley. King performed five shows before returning to Slayer. Rauch was briefly replaced by Brett Frederickson before jazz fusion drummer Gar Samuelson joined later in 1984. Megadeth initially performed as a trio until Samuelson officially became a member on October 24. Samuelson had previously collaborated with guitarist Chris Poland in The New Yorkers; Poland joined Megadeth after auditioning backstage following Samuelson’s performance in December 1984.

Opting for Combat Records due to its comparatively generous budget offer among labels, Megadeth received $8,000 in 1985 to record their first album. After spending half of this amount on drugs and food expenses, they dismissed their original producer and completed recording independently.

Although production quality was low-fidelity, Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good! achieved underground acclaim and attracted attention from major labels. The band described their style as State Of The Art Speed Metal. Music journalist Joel McIver observed that its intense technicality elevated thrash metal standards regarding precision and intensity. This album introduced their mascot Vic Rattlehead, who would become a recurring figure on future covers.

The record features "Mechanix," penned by Mustaine during his tenure with Metallica; Metallica’s version was slower and retitled "The Four Horsemen." It also includes a fast-tempo cover of Nancy Sinatra's "These Boots Are Made for Walkin'" with altered lyrics—a rendition that caused controversy when songwriter Lee Hazlewood described the changes as offensive. Due to legal disputes, this track was omitted from pressings between 1995 and 2001.

In mid-1985, Megadeth embarked on the Killing for a Living Tour across North America alongside Canadian speed metal band Exciter. Guitarist Mike Albert temporarily replaced Poland due to his struggles with addiction; Poland returned in October prior to recording their second album under Combat Records.

1986–1987: Peace Sells... but Who's Buying?

Facing the challenge of producing a successful second album, Mustaine wrote the music while his bandmates focused on arrangements. Initially recorded on a $25,000 budget with Combat Records, financial difficulties prompted the group to leave and sign with Capitol Records, which secured the album's rights and commissioned Paul Lani to remix the tracks. Released in late 1986, Peace Sells... but Who's Buying? showcased improved production clarity alongside more intricate songwriting. Mustaine sought to incorporate socially aware lyrics, distinguishing Megadeth from typical heavy metal themes. The album’s political messages broadened their audience, and the title track’s video received consistent rotation on MTV.

In early 1987, Megadeth supported Alice Cooper on the Constrictor tour and embarked on their inaugural headlining world tour in the UK, with support from Overkill and Necros. This extensive 72-week tour also covered the United States. During this time, drummer Samuelson was replaced by Chuck Behler due to concerns about substance abuse. Additionally, bassist Poland was dismissed following allegations of selling gear to finance heroin addiction. Jay Reynolds temporarily filled Poland’s role before Jeff Young took over six weeks into the recording sessions for their third album.

1988–1989: So Far, So Good... So What!

With a major label backing, the Paul Lani-produced So Far, So Good... So What! required over five months to complete. Production was complicated by Mustaine’s drug dependency and disagreements with Lani, who insisted on isolating drum recording from cymbals—an uncommon technique in rock music. Ultimately, Michael Wagener replaced Lani and handled the album’s remixing.

Released in January 1988, the album garnered positive reviews and featured a rendition of the Sex Pistols' "Anarchy in the U.K." with modified lyrics. To support the release, Megadeth undertook an extensive global tour opening for acts like Dio and Iron Maiden, as well as headlining tours alongside Warlock and Sanctuary, whose debut album was produced by Mustaine.

In June 1988, Megadeth appeared in Penelope Spheeris' documentary The Decline of Western Civilization Part II: The Metal Years, highlighting the Los Angeles heavy metal scene. Mustaine later expressed dissatisfaction with how the film associated Megadeth with less reputable bands.

That August, they performed at the UK’s Monsters of Rock festival before an audience exceeding 100,000 people. Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich made a guest appearance during their set. However, after just one show on the European Monsters of Rock tour, Megadeth withdrew due to bassist Ellefson’s drug problems; Testament took their place.

Following Monsters of Rock, Mustaine dismissed drummer Behler and guitarist Young, resulting in cancellation of an Australian tour. He attributed these decisions to escalating tensions exacerbated by substance abuse issues. Drummer Nick Menza, initially Behler’s technician, replaced him in 1989. Young’s termination was linked to Mustaine suspecting an affair between him and his girlfriend—a claim Young denied.

Although Megadeth did not tour or perform live in 1989—the first such break since their inception—they recorded a cover of Alice Cooper's "No More Mr. Nice Guy" for the Shocker soundtrack. The accompanying video, directed by Spheeris, posed challenges due to Mustaine's inability to play guitar amid his addiction struggles. During auditions for a new lead guitarist in March 1989, Mustaine was arrested for DUI and drug possession following a crash involving a parked vehicle occupied by an off-duty officer. Subsequently, he entered court-mandated drug rehabilitation and achieved sobriety for the first time in ten years.

1990–1991: Rust in Peace

After Mustaine achieved sobriety, Megadeth began searching for a new lead guitarist. Slash from Guns N' Roses jammed with Mustaine and Ellefson but ultimately remained with his band. Pantera's Dimebag Darrell was considered for the position; however, the offer fell through when Mustaine refused Darrell's condition to also bring in Pantera's drummer Vinnie Paul, as Menza had already been hired.ref name="King" Additionally, Criss Oliva declined the invitation, unwilling to part ways with Savatage.ref An 18-year-old Jeff Loomis, later known for his work with Nevermore, auditioned but was deemed too inexperienced.ref

Marty Friedman was brought on board as guitarist following a recommendation from Capitol management, impressed by his solo performances with Cacophony. Mustaine and Ellefson approved Friedman's playing style, convinced he understood Megadeth's musical direction. This ensemble is frequently recognized as the band's classic lineup. In March 1990, the group entered Rumbo Recorders to record the album alongside co-producer Mike Clink, who notably completed the project without being dismissed—the first producer to do so.ref name="Rust" The recording process was captured in the 1991 video Rusted Pieces, which included six music videos and an interview.

Rust in Peace was released in September 1990, entering the US charts at number 23 and reaching number eight in the UK.ref name="Albums"ref Mustaine's compositions featured intricate rhythms, extended solos, and frequent tempo changes. The album received acclaim as a defining work within its genre by Decibel,ref name="Decibel" solidifying Megadeth’s standing in the metal community. It spawned singles such as "Holy Wars... The Punishment Due" and "Hangar 18", both accompanied by music videos and becoming concert staples. Rust in Peace garnered a Grammy nomination for Best Metal Performance in 1991ref name=":0"ref, and by December 1994 it had achieved triple platinum status.

In early 1990, Megadeth participated in the European leg of the Clash of the Titans tour alongside Slayer, Testament, and Suicidal Tendencies, showcasing prominent American thrash acts. The following year’s US tour featured Megadeth, Slayer, and Anthrax, supported by Alice in Chains, with headliners rotating performance slots. Furthermore, late 1990 saw Megadeth and Testament supporting Judas Priest on their Painkiller North American tour. January 1991 included an appearance at the second edition of the Rock in Rio festival. In July 1991, Megadeth contributed "Go to Hell" to the soundtrack of Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey.

1992–1993: Countdown to Extinction

Megadeth’s fifth studio album was composed during two distinct periods: immediately following the Clash of the Titans tour and later in autumn 1991. Recording sessions commenced in January 1992 at Enterprise Studios in Burbank with producer Max Norman returning after his work on Rust in Peace. Over nearly four months, the band developed Countdown to Extinction, which became their most commercially successful release to date, featuring songwriting input from all members. Ellefson remarked on a noticeable move towards more melodic compositions.

Upon its July 1992 release, the album debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 chart and ultimately earned double platinum certification within the United States. It secured a Grammy nomination for Best Metal Performance in 1993, while its title track received a Genesis Award recognizing animal rights advocacy. Both Ellefson and Friedman expressed dissatisfaction over not winning the Grammy.

The extensive world tour supporting the album began late in 1992 with Pantera and White Zombie as opening acts, followed by a North American leg early in 1993 featuring Stone Temple Pilots. However, this tour was truncated due to Mustaine’s relapse into substance abuse and subsequent hospitalization. After a seven-week rehabilitation period, Mustaine returned sober and contributed "Angry Again" to the soundtrack of the 1993 film Last Action Hero, which earned another Grammy nomination in 1994.

In mid-1993, Megadeth toured Europe alongside Metallica and Diamond Head. They briefly opened for Aerosmith during their Get a Grip Tour, but were dismissed after only three shows due to Mustaine’s unpredictable behavior or what Capitol Records described as "artistic restrictions." Subsequently, Megadeth recorded "99 Ways to Die" for The Beavis and Butt-Head Experience, receiving a Grammy nomination in 1995. Additionally, their cover of Black Sabbath’s "Paranoid" appeared on the tribute album Nativity in Black, which also garnered Grammy recognition.

1994–1995: Youthanasia

At the beginning of 1994, Megadeth reunited with producer Max Norman to create a follow-up to Countdown to Extinction. With three band members based in Arizona, initial sessions took place at Phase Four Studios in Phoenix. Due to technical difficulties, they relocated their recording efforts and, following Norman’s advice, constructed their own facility within a rented warehouse in Phoenix, later dubbed "Fat Planet in Hangar 18". Much of the pre-production songwriting was completed at Vintage Recorders, also located in Phoenix. Norman encouraged the band to slow their tempos to around 120 beats per minute, prompting a stylistic shift from progressive metal toward stronger vocal hooks and more accessible arrangements. For the first time, Megadeth composed and arranged the entire album during studio sessions, recording foundational tracks live. This process was captured and released as Evolver: The Making of Youthanasia in 1995.

To promote the album, on October 1, 1994, Megadeth launched Megadeth, Arizona, regarded as the first official artist website. Developed under Capitol Records’ sales director Robin Bechtel with a $30,000 budget, the site offered interactive features such as a chat room named Megadiner, news updates called Horrorscopes, and digital postcards.

After approximately eight months of recording, Youthanasia was released in November 1994, debuting at number four on the Billboard 200 chart and achieving placements across European markets. It received gold certification in Canada upon release and reached platinum status in the United States two months later. To refine their visual presentation, Megadeth enlisted fashion photographer Richard Avedon to replace their casual attire with a more sophisticated image. The band supported the album with a Halloween concert in New York City that was broadcast live on MTV and made two appearances on the Late Show with David Letterman.

The eleven-month tour commenced in South America in November 1994 and continued through Europe and North America, featuring opening acts such as Corrosion of Conformity, Korn, and Fear Factory. The tour concluded at Brazil’s Monsters of Rock festival where they co-headlined alongside Alice Cooper and Ozzy Osbourne. In January 1995, Megadeth contributed the track "Diadems" to the soundtrack of the horror film Demon Knight. Later that July, they issued the EP Hidden Treasures, compiling songs from various movie soundtracks and tribute compilations.

1996–1999: Cryptic Writings and Risk

Following an extensive touring cycle for Youthanasia, Megadeth took most of 1996 off and came close to disbanding. During this break, Mustaine collaborated on MD.45, a side project with Fear’s Lee Ving that included material originally intended for Megadeth. The band added drummer Jimmy DeGrasso, who had toured earlier that year with Alice Cooper. Meanwhile, guitarist Marty Friedman completed his fourth solo album while residing in Phoenix.

In September 1996, recording for their next album took place in London and Nashville under new management by Bud Prager, who exerted influence over songwriting and lyrical content. Produced by Dann Huff, known for country pop production, Cryptic Writings was released in June 1997. It reached number ten on the Billboard 200 chart and earned gold certification in the U.S. The lead single "Trust" climbed to number five on Mainstream Rock Tracks and garnered a Grammy nomination for Best Metal Performance. Despite receiving mixed critiques, the album balanced aggressive elements with melodic compositions; Mustaine described its structure as divided into three parts: fast-paced songs, radio-friendly tracks, and melodic pieces.

Touring resumed in June 1997 with support from bands like Misfits and Life of Agony. During Ozzfest '98, drummer Nick Menza departed due to a knee tumor diagnosis; Jimmy DeGrasso permanently replaced him after the tour amid Mustaine's skepticism regarding Menza's health claims.

Building on the success of Cryptic Writings, Megadeth reunited with Huff for their eighth studio album. Writing sessions began in January 1999 under Prager’s guidance, who co-wrote five tracks. Mustaine later expressed regret over granting Huff greater control during production.

Released in August 1999, Risk represented both a commercial disappointment and critical backlash, alienating many longtime fans due to its near-complete departure from metal elements. Nevertheless, it achieved gold certification in the U.S. The lead single "Crush 'Em" appeared on the soundtrack for Universal Soldier: The Return and was featured during NHL games and wrestling events. Mustaine later acknowledged that Risk was a low point in his career and vowed to return to Megadeth’s metal roots.

On July 14, 1999, original drummer Gar Samuelson passed away at age 41 due to liver failure. Eleven days later at Woodstock 1999, Mustaine dedicated "Peace Sells" to Samuelson’s memory. That same month Megadeth recorded a cover of Black Sabbath’s "Never Say Die" for a tribute compilation. Supporting Risk, they toured Europe alongside Iron Maiden until guitarist Marty Friedman left three months into the tour over creative differences—Mustaine had pushed for a return to metal following Risk.

2000–2002: The World Needs a Hero, disbandment, and pause

In January 2000, guitarist Al Pitrelli, known for his work with Savatage and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, took over from Friedman. Megadeth recommenced studio sessions in April for their ninth studio album but temporarily halted recording to participate in the Maximum Rock tour alongside Anthrax and Mötley Crüe in mid-2000. Early during the tour, Anthrax was dropped, which allowed Megadeth to extend their co-headlining performance, despite underwhelming ticket sales.

After a 15-year relationship with Capitol Records, Megadeth parted ways with the label in July 2000 amid managerial conflicts. Capitol returned the band's recent recordings and released a greatest hits compilation titled Capitol Punishment: The Megadeth Years, including two new songs. By November, Megadeth had signed with Sanctuary Records and resumed work on The World Needs a Hero, which had been nearly finished before the tour. Following the poor reception of Risk, Mustaine dismissed manager Bud Prager and took on production duties himself. Mustaine composed every track except "Promises," which he co-wrote with Pitrelli. Just two days prior to the album’s release, Megadeth was featured on VH1's Behind the Music.

The World Needs a Hero was released in May 2001, entering the Billboard 200 chart at number sixteen but faced a ban in Malaysia due to its cover art, resulting in a canceled concert in Kuala Lumpur. The album represented a shift back toward a heavier sound yet received mixed critical responses. Mustaine described it as a vessel attempting to regain balance. The lead single "Moto Psycho" climbed to number 22 on Billboard's Mainstream Rock chart.

In mid-2001, Megadeth embarked on a European tour supporting AC/DC, followed by a U.S. tour with Iced Earth and Endo, where audiences selected the setlists. The tour was abruptly cut short after the September 11 attacks, with all remaining shows canceled, including a planned DVD recording in Argentina. However, the band performed two shows in Arizona that were filmed for their inaugural live album release, Rude Awakening. That year also saw the release of a remixed and remastered edition of Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good! featuring additional tracks.

In January 2002, Mustaine was hospitalized to remove kidney stones; however, painkillers led to a relapse of substance abuse. During rehabilitation, he developed radial neuropathy caused by nerve compression, rendering him unable to play guitar. On April 3, Mustaine announced that Megadeth was disbanding due to his incapacitation. He underwent rigorous physical therapy aimed at restoring hand function. To meet contractual commitments with Sanctuary Records, Megadeth issued the compilation Still Alive... and Well?, which combined live performances with studio cuts from The World Needs a Hero.

After nearly twelve months of recovery, Mustaine initiated work on what was planned as his debut solo project in October 2003, collaborating with session musicians Vinnie Colaiuta and Jimmie Lee Sloas. Although recording wrapped up by April 2004, progress was postponed when Mustaine agreed to remix and remaster Megadeth’s eight-album Capitol catalog, re-recording missing elements along the way.

2004–2005: Reformation and The System Has Failed

In May 2004, Mustaine resumed his solo endeavors; however, due to contractual commitments with the band's European label, EMI, the release was officially attributed to Megadeth. He reassembled the group by contacting members from the acclaimed Rust in Peace era to re-record backing tracks. Drummer Nick Menza agreed to rejoin, but negotiations with Marty Friedman and David Ellefson did not result in their return. Menza was dismissed just prior to a U.S. tour because he was deemed unprepared for its physical demands. This album became the first without Ellefson’s involvement. Chris Poland, who had performed lead guitar on Megadeth's initial two albums, contributed guitar solos as a session musician while concentrating on his jazz fusion band OHM.

Released in September 2004, The System Has Failed received acclaim as a comeback; Revolver described it as "Megadeth's most vengeful, poignant and musically complex work since 1992’s Countdown to Extinction". The record marked a return to their earlier style, featuring neo-thrash riffs and politically charged themes. It entered the Billboard 200 chart at number eighteen and included "Die Dead Enough," which peaked at number 21 on the US Mainstream Rock chart. Mustaine declared this album would be Megadeth’s last, followed by a farewell tour before he focused on his solo projects.

Megadeth embarked on the Blackmail the Universe world tour in October, bringing in bassist James MacDonough (formerly of Iced Earth) and guitarist Glen Drover (known from Eidolon and King Diamond). Just five days before the tour began, Menza was replaced by Shawn Drover, who then became a permanent member. The band toured across the US with Exodus and Europe alongside Diamond Head and Dungeon. In June 2005, Capitol issued Greatest Hits: Back to the Start, a compilation consisting of remixed and remastered tracks chosen by fans from Megadeth’s Capitol releases.

In mid-2005, Mustaine launched Gigantour, an annual thrash metal festival tour headlined by Megadeth alongside groups such as Dream Theater, Nevermore, Anthrax, and Fear Factory. Concerts recorded in Montreal and Vancouver were compiled into a DVD-and-CD package released in 2006. On October 9, following the success of The System Has Failed and its supporting tour, Mustaine announced during a sold-out performance at Buenos Aires’ Pepsi Music Rock Festival that Megadeth would continue producing albums and touring. That show at Obras Sanitarias stadium attracted 25,000 attendees and was later issued on DVD as That One Night: Live in Buenos Aires in 2007.

2006–2008: United Abominations

In February 2006, bassist James MacDonough departed Megadeth due to "personal differences" and was succeeded by James LoMenzo, known for his tenure with David Lee Roth, White Lion, and Black Label Society. This lineup made their live debut headlining the Dubai Desert Rock Festival alongside Testament. Capitol released a two-disc DVD titled Arsenal of Megadeth, containing archival footage, interviews, live performances, and music videos; however, some content was omitted for licensing reasons. The second edition of Gigantour commenced late in 2006 with Megadeth headlining alongside Lamb of God, Opeth, Arch Enemy, and Overkill; three Australian shows featured support from Soulfly, Arch Enemy, and Caliban.

Megadeth announced their eleventh studio album, United Abominations, in May 2006. Originally slated for an October release, it was postponed until May 2007. Mustaine emphasized his intention to produce a strong record rooted in classic metal traditions. This album introduced Glen Drover, Shawn Drover, and James LoMenzo as official members. It also featured an updated rendition of "A Tout le Monde" titled "À Tout le Monde (Set Me Free)", performed as a duet with Cristina Scabbia from Lacuna Coil.

Upon release, United Abominations debuted at number eight on the Billboard 200 chart with first-week sales totaling 54,000 units. In March 2007, Megadeth toured North America opening for the reformed Heaven & Hell; Down supported them in Canada while Machine Head did so in the US. A European festival circuit followed during summer before Megadeth headlined their Tour of Duty across the US. Gigantour returned to Australia in November featuring Static-X, DevilDriver, and Lacuna Coil.

In January 2008, Glen Drover left citing exhaustion from touring and personal matters; Chris Broderick from Nevermore and Jag Panzer replaced him. Mustaine lauded Broderick as "the finest guitarist Megadeth has ever had," while Broderick’s former bandmate Van Williams praised both his talent and character.

The revamped lineup's live debut occurred at Helsinki Ice Hall on February 4. The 2008 Gigantour comprised 29 dates across North America with In Flames, Children of Bodom, Job for a Cowboy, and High on Fire supporting. Mustaine aimed for a more concise bill to enhance performance quality. Mid-2008 saw Megadeth continue their Tour of Duty through South America and Mexico. In September they released the compilation album Anthology: Set the World Afire.

2009–2010: Endgame and Ellefson's Reunion

In February 2009, Megadeth and Testament supported Judas Priest on the European leg of the "Priest Feast" tour. Although Metallica, newly inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, invited Mustaine to attend the ceremony, he was excluded from induction due to rules concerning recording credits. Despite this exclusion, Mustaine fulfilled his touring obligations. In April, Megadeth co-headlined the Canadian Carnage tour alongside Slayer, marking their first joint tour in over fifteen years, with Machine Head and Suicide Silence joining as supporting acts in June.

By May 2009, Megadeth had finalized recording their twelfth studio album, Endgame. The band announced the release date on their official platform, while Metal Hammer provided an exclusive track-by-track analysis. The Endgame tour spanned from October through December, featuring opening performances by Machine Head, Suicide Silence, and Warbringer. A planned American Carnage tour scheduled for January 2010 with Slayer and Testament was delayed due to Tom Araya undergoing back surgery. Megadeth’s single "Head Crusher" earned a Grammy nomination for Best Metal Performance at the 2010 awards, marking the band's eighth nomination in this category.

In March 2010, Megadeth embarked on the Rust in Peace 20th Anniversary Tour across North America with Testament and Exodus, delivering full renditions of the album live. Before this tour commenced, original bassist David Ellefson rejoined the band after an eight-year absence; drummer Shawn Drover reached out to him following the departure of bassist LoMenzo.

During mid-2010, Megadeth joined forces with Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax—the so-called "big four" of thrash metal—for performances at the Sonisphere Festival in Europe. One concert in Sofia, Bulgaria was recorded and later released as The Big Four: Live from Sofia, Bulgaria. The tour extended into the United States in 2011 with shows including Indio, California and a notable performance at Yankee Stadium.

Following these events, Megadeth and Slayer launched the first segment of the American Carnage Tour in July 2010; Megadeth performed Rust in Peace in its entirety while Slayer presented Seasons in the Abyss. From this time forward, Vic Rattlehead became a consistent feature during live shows to enhance stage visuals. Later that year, Megadeth toured alongside Slayer and Anthrax on the Jägermeister Music Tour. At the concluding concert, Kerry King joined Megadeth onstage for "Rattlehead," marking his first collaboration with them since 1984. Early 2011 saw Megadeth and Slayer continue touring together during the European Carnage Tour, with Megadeth headlining the Rockstar Mayhem Festival that summer.

September 2010 brought the release of the DVD album Rust in Peace Live, recorded at Los Angeles' Hollywood Palladium. Later that month, they debuted "Sudden Death" as part of the soundtrack for the video game Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock. Commissioned by Guitar Hero’s publishers for its intense lyrics and multiple guitar solos, this track also received a nomination for Best Metal Performance at the 2011 Grammy Awards.

2011–2014: Thirteen and Super Collider

In 2011, Megadeth entered Vic's Garage studio to produce their thirteenth studio album, Thirteen, collaborating with producer Johnny K after Andy Sneap was unavailable. The record featured previously released songs such as "Sudden Death" and "Never Dead," and was launched in November 2011, achieving a peak position of number eleven on the Billboard 200 chart. The album's lead single, "Public Enemy No. 1", received a Grammy nomination for Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance. After the album's release, Megadeth announced the return of Gigantour for early 2012, with supporting acts including Motörhead, Volbeat, and Lacuna Coil. Later that year, the band co-headlined a nine-date United States tour alongside Rob Zombie.

In September 2012, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Countdown to Extinction, Megadeth reissued the album and performed it in its entirety during their tour. A live recording from their show at the Pomona Fox Theater was subsequently released as Countdown to Extinction: Live. Another track from Thirteen, "Whose Life (Is It Anyways?)", earned a nomination for Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance at the 2013 Grammy Awards.

Recording sessions for their fourteenth album commenced in August 2012 with Johnny K returning as producer. By early 2013, Megadeth parted ways with Roadrunner Records and opted to release future material through Dave Mustaine's own Tradecraft label, distributed by Universal Music Group. The resulting album, Super Collider, was released in June 2013 and debuted at number six on the Billboard 200—marking their highest chart position since 1994’s Youthanasia. Despite this commercial success, the album received mixed critical reception due to its divergence from Megadeth’s classic metal style. Mustaine disclosed intentions to work on a fifteenth album, inspired by the death of Slayer guitarist Jeff Hanneman and a renewed creative urgency.

The 2013 edition of Gigantour featured performances by Black Label Society, Hellyeah, Device, and Newsted. Jason Newsted joined Megadeth on stage during the finale to perform "Phantom Lord," a song co-written by Mustaine during his time with Metallica. In early 2014, Megadeth withdrew from Australia's Soundwave festival following disagreements related to shows involving Newsted. Additionally, an eleven-track compilation titled Icon, showcasing Capitol-era material, was released in February.

Throughout 2014, Megadeth encountered several challenges: they canceled June tour dates after the death of bassist David Ellefson’s brother; an August concert in Tel Aviv was called off due to regional unrest; and they pulled out of Motörhead’s Motörboat cruise because of Mustaine’s complications following surgery. In October, Mustaine’s mother-in-law went missing and was later found deceased. That same month saw drummer Shawn Drover depart after a decade with the band to pursue other musical endeavors, soon followed by guitarist Chris Broderick citing artistic differences as his reason for leaving. Despite rumors about the band's potential breakup, Ellefson confirmed that collaboration with Mustaine would continue. Mustaine later explained that frustrations over fan demands for reunions with former members Friedman and Menza contributed in part to Broderick and Drover’s departures.

2015–2018: Dystopia

Lamb of God's drummer Chris Adler and Angra guitarist Kiko Loureiro became part of Megadeth's lineup for their fifteenth studio release after Dave Mustaine's efforts to reunite the Rust in Peace era members were unsuccessful. In October 2015, Megadeth debuted the track "Fatal Illusion" from their album Dystopia, which was officially released in January 2016. To promote the album, the band embarked on a North American tour in early 2016, sharing the stage with Suicidal Tendencies, Children of Bodom, and initially Havok, who were soon dropped due to conflicts with management. Scheduling conflicts led to Adler's departure, and he was succeeded by Dirk Verbeuren from Soilwork, who came highly recommended by Adler himself. Later that year, Megadeth conducted a second US tour featuring support acts such as Amon Amarth, Suicidal Tendencies, Metal Church, and Butcher Babies. In May 2016, former drummer Nick Menza tragically died from a heart attack while performing.

In 2017, Mustaine advocated for a new Big Four tour since all involved bands were releasing new material. The album’s title track "Dystopia" earned Megadeth their first-ever Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance after twelve previous nominations. Present at the ceremony were Mustaine, Loureiro, Ellefson, and Verbeuren; Adler was absent. Notably, the house band controversially performed Metallica’s "Master of Puppets" during Megadeth’s acceptance.

Mid-2017 saw Mustaine announce intentions to enter the studio later that year to begin work on their sixteenth album, with recording anticipated around mid-2018 aiming for a 2019 release. That fall, Megadeth co-headlined a tour with Scorpions. In 2018, they marked their 35th anniversary by reissuing their debut record Killing Is My Business... And Business Is Good! as a deluxe remastered edition titled The Final Kill.

2019–2023: Ellefson’s second exit and The Sick, the Dying... and the Dead!

Pre-production for Megadeth’s subsequent album began in May 2019 with producer Chris Rakestraw. However, all remaining concerts for that year were canceled following Mustaine’s throat cancer diagnosis; this included postponing his scheduled support slot for Ozzy Osbourne’s North American tour to 2020, where Marilyn Manson took over. Despite health challenges, the band pressed on with album development. Mustaine hinted at new music later in 2019.

In July 2019, Megadeth collaborated with Gimme Radio and Richard Childress Racing to sponsor a Chevrolet Camaro driven by Tyler Reddick. Early 2020 featured an announced European tour supported by Five Finger Death Punch and Bad Wolves. The band was also set to perform at the inaugural MegaCruise in October 2019 alongside various metal artists; however, Mustaine missed this event due to illness, with performances including Kiss cover sets by band members.

A North American co-headlining summer 2020 tour titled "The Metal Tour of the Year" with Lamb of God was postponed until 2021 because of the COVID-19 pandemic; Hatebreed replaced In Flames due to visa complications. Recording sessions for the new album resumed mid-2020 in Nashville. By January 2021, Mustaine revealed the tentative title: The Sick, the Dying... and the Dead!.

In May 2021, explicit videos involving bassist David Ellefson surfaced online, resulting in his dismissal from Megadeth amid initial grooming allegations which both parties denied; subsequent police investigations corroborated consensual adult involvement. Mustaine confirmed Ellefson would not participate on the forthcoming album; bass tracks were subsequently re-recorded by an undisclosed musician. Former bassist James LoMenzo returned as touring bassist and was officially reinstated in May 2022. Session bassist Steve Di Giorgio performed on The Sick, the Dying... and the Dead!, which was released in September 2022.

Between June and August 2022, singles including "We'll Be Back," "Night Stalkers" featuring Ice-T, and "Soldier On!" were issued. In November of that year, Megadeth released a cover of Judas Priest’s "Delivering The Goods."

In February 2023, ex-guitarist Marty Friedman joined Megadeth onstage in Japan for three songs—their first joint performance since 2000. Former drummer Lee Rausch passed away in June 2023. Friedman made another guest appearance at Wacken Open Air in August.

2023–present: Departure of Kiko Loureiro, Megadeth album, and farewell tour

On September 6, 2023, lead guitarist Kiko Loureiro stepped away temporarily from the North American segment of the tour and was substituted by Teemu Mäntysaari. Following an extended absence by Loureiro, Mäntysaari was officially confirmed as the new lead guitarist on November 20. Later that month, Loureiro announced his permanent exit from the band, citing personal reasons.

In August 2025, Megadeth revealed plans for their concluding studio album, titled Megadeth, set for release on January 23, 2026. This announcement coincided with news of a farewell world tour commencing the same year. Despite his previous dismissal, original bassist David Ellefson expressed interest in rejoining the project. The album’s lead single "Tipping Point" debuted in October 2025 and was performed live during their European tour supporting Disturbed. The farewell tour itinerary features a Canadian leg alongside Anthrax and Exodus, as well as supporting Iron Maiden during their North American dates. Mustaine has suggested that the final tour might extend over a period of three to five years.

Controversies

Dave Mustaine has been known for making contentious remarks about his former Metallica bandmates following his removal from the group and disagreements over songwriting credits. He contested his depiction in Metallica: Some Kind of Monster, describing it as inaccurate.

During a 1988 concert in Antrim, Northern Ireland, Mustaine dedicated the track "Anarchy in the U.K." to "the cause," inadvertently alluding to the Provisional IRA after discovering unofficial T-shirts were being sold to support them. This led to a riot among audience members divided by religious affiliations and inspired the creation of "Holy Wars... The Punishment Due."

Several Megadeth music videos encountered bans or restricted airplay due to themes interpreted as endorsing suicide or containing graphic content ("In My Darkest Hour," "A Tout le Monde," "Skin o' My Teeth," "Symphony of Destruction"). In 2001, Malaysian authorities canceled a scheduled Megadeth concert citing concerns over their mascot Vic Rattlehead and overall image.

Mustaine's conversion to born-again Christianity in 2003 sparked controversy when he began excluding certain songs from live sets based on his religious convictions. In 2005, he reportedly threatened to cancel performances involving anti-Christian bands such as Rotting Christ and Dissection, leading those groups to withdraw voluntarily.

Between 2004 and 2005, legal conflicts arose between Mustaine and former bassist Ellefson concerning financial matters and rights to use the Megadeth name; these disputes were ultimately resolved privately. In May 2021, explicit videos involving Ellefson surfaced online resulting in his dismissal amid initial allegations of grooming—claims both parties denied—with police investigations confirming consensual participation among adults.

Musical style and instrumentation

Megadeth is predominantly categorized as a thrash metal band with strong ties to speed metal. Although occasionally misclassified as death metal during its early years, the band is credited with pioneering speed metal elements characterized by technical skill and high energy.

Dave Mustaine serves as the chief songwriter, crafting riffs that form the foundation of each track; these fragments are often created independently before being arranged collaboratively. Drummer Shawn Drover has noted that numerous riffs originate from earlier demo recordings. Bassist Ellefson described their creative workflow as ongoing exchanges of ideas followed by studio collaboration on conceptual aspects and artwork. Lyrics typically follow musical composition and frequently draw inspiration from literary sources like George Orwell’s writings.

The band’s sound incorporates aggressive vocals, double bass drumming techniques, staccato riffing, power chords, tremolo picking, and complex lead guitar work reminiscent of early underground metal productions with modest budgets. Mustaine’s guitar approach prioritizes vigorous playing over static stage presence; most compositions employ standard tuning to enhance melody, though lower tunings have been adopted recently to accommodate vocal range changes.

Initial albums featured Mustaine on rhythm guitar complemented by Chris Poland’s jazz-influenced lead playing which added musical depth. Their songwriting reached a pinnacle with Rust in Peace, blending Mustaine’s controlled intensity with Marty Friedman’s virtuosity. Subsequent releases simplified structural complexity somewhat but maintained essential thrash metal characteristics.

Lyrical themes

Megadeth’s songwriting explores a wide array of topics including mortality, conflict, governance, spirituality, existential despair, social alienation, societal challenges, mysticism, explicit violence, early Satanic references, nuclear threats, and governmental conspiracies—particularly notable on the albums Rust in Peace and Countdown to Extinction. Additionally, themes of substance dependency and interpersonal dynamics emerge during their commercial peak. Political satire is prominently showcased in United Abominations, which critiques the United Nations' efficacy.

Influences

The band's musical style draws heavily from classic heavy metal groups such as UFO, Black Sabbath, Budgie, and Judas Priest; the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) scene with bands like Raven and Angel Witch; as well as Motörhead. Punk rock influences include the Sex Pistols and Ramones, while hard rock inspirations come from AC/DC and Queen. Legendary classic rock bands Led Zeppelin and Rush also shaped their sound. European metal pioneers like Scorpions and Accept contributed to their style, alongside Mercyful Fate’s impact on guitar techniques. Megadeth’s music fuses NWOBHM’s technical skill with the intensity of hardcore punk, with lyrical motifs inspired by horror punk innovators such as the Misfits. Dave Mustaine additionally acknowledges The Beatles and David Bowie as significant influences on their recordings.

Legacy

Having sold over 50 million records worldwide—with 9.2 million albums purchased in the United States between 1991 and 2014—Megadeth stands among the select '80s American underground metal bands to attain widespread commercial acclaim. Alongside Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax—the so-called "big four" of thrash metal—they played a pivotal role in shaping and popularizing the genre.

Loudwire ranks Megadeth as the third greatest thrash metal band due to their provocative lyrics and instrumental mastery. Their debut album is heralded as a foundational work in the speed metal movement, while later releases continue to be recognized for their lyrical depth and technical excellence by outlets such as Billboard and MTV.

Megadeth significantly influenced the rise of death metal and contributed to expanding extreme metal’s global presence during its mainstream emergence. Their legacy extends through numerous contemporary metal acts including Sepultura, Pantera, Slipknot, Bullet for My Valentine, Trivium, Avenged Sevenfold, Arch Enemy, Children of Bodom, Lamb of God, As I Lay Dying, All That Remains, Evile, Toxic Holocaust among others.

Band members

Current

Discography

Studio albums

Accolades

Classic Rock Roll of Honour Awards:

  • 2014: Dave Mustaine honored with Metal Guru

Clio Awards:

  • 2016: Silver Award recipient – "The Megadeth VR Experience"

Genesis Awards:

Grammy Awards:

  • 2017: Best Metal Performance awarded for "Dystopia"

Loudwire Music Awards:

  • 2011: Metal Album of the Year awarded to Thirteen
  • 2011: Metal Song of the Year for "Public Enemy No. 1"

Metal Hammer Golden Gods Awards:

  • 2007: Riff Lord title granted to Dave Mustaine
  • 2015: Golden God accolade received by Dave Mustaine

Revolver Golden Gods Awards:

  • 2009: Golden God award bestowed upon Dave Mustaine

Bibliography

  • {{cite book (last='Popoff' (first='Martin' (author-link='Martin Popoff' (year='2002' (title='The Top 500 Heavy Metal Songs of All Time' (publisher='ECW Press' isbn='978 -1 -55022 -530 -3'))}}
  • {{cite book (editor1-first='Pete' editor1-last='Prown' editor2-first='Harvey P.' editor2-last='Newquist' (year='1997' title="Legends of Rock Guitar: The Essential Reference of Rock's Greatest Guitarists" publisher='Hal Leonard Corporation' isbn='0 -7935 -4042 -9'))}}
  • {{cite book (last ='Purcell' first ='Natalie J.' title ='Death Metal Music: The Passion and Politics of a Subculture' year ='2003' publisher ='McFarland & Company' isbn ='0 -7864 -8406 -3')}}
  • {{cite book (editor1-first ='Dafydd' editor1-last ='Rees' editor2-first ='Luke' editor2-last ='Crampton' year ='1999' title ='Rock stars encyclopedia' publisher ='DK Publishing' isbn ='0 -7894 -4613 -8' url ='https://archive.org/details/rockstarsencyclo00rees')}}
  • {{cite book (last ='Rubiner' first ='Julia' year ='1993' title ='Contemporary Musicians: Profiles of the People in Music' publisher ='Gale Group' isbn ='0 -8103 -2217 -X' url ='https://archive.org/details/contemporarymusi00juli_0')}}
  • {{cite book (last ='Talevski' first ='Nick' title ='Rock Obituaries – Knocking On Heaven's Door' year ='2010' publisher ='Omnibus Press' isbn ='978 -0 -85712 -117 -2')}}
  • {{cite book (last ='Tarquin', first ='Brian', author-link ='Brian Tarquin', title ='Recording Techniques of the Guitar Masters', year ='2012', publisher ='Cengage Learning', isbn ='978 -1 -4354 -6017 -1')}}
  • {{cite book (last ='Thompson', first ='Graham', title ='American culture in the 1980s', year ='2007', publisher ='Edinburgh University Press', isbn ='978 -0 -7486 -1910 -8')}}
  • {{cite book (editor1-first ='Richie', editor1-last ='Unterberger', editor2-first ='Samb', editor2-last ='Hicks', year ='1999', title ="Music USA: The Rough Guide", publisher ="Rough Guides", isbn ="1 -85828 -421 -X", url-access ="registration", url ="https://archive.org/details/musicusaroughgui0000unte")}}
  • {{cite book (last ="Wagner", first ="Jeff", title ="Mean Deviation: Four Decades of Progressive Heavy Metal", year ="2010", publisher ="Bazillion Points Books", isbn ="978 -0 -9796163 -3 -4")}}

External links

Retrieved from "https://www.alfawiki.org/index.php?title=Megadeth&oldid=83622"