Megadeth

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Megadeth is an American heavy metal band formed in Los Angeles, California, in 1983 by guitarist Dave Mustaine and bassist David Ellefson. Along with Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax, Megadeth is one of the "big four" of American thrash metal, responsible for its development and popularization. Their music features complex arrangements, fast rhythm sections, and lyrical themes of death, war, politics, and religion.

History

Formation and Early Years (1983-1984)

After being fired from Metallica, Dave Mustaine formed Megadeth with the intention of creating a heavier and faster band. He recruited bassist David Ellefson, guitarist Greg Handevidt, and drummer Dijon Carruthers. The band went through several lineup changes before recording their debut album.

Debut Album and Rise to Fame (1985-1990)

Megadeth released their debut album, Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good!, in 1985. The album was well-received and established the band's presence in the metal community. Their second album, Peace Sells... but Who's Buying?, released in 1986, was a commercial success and solidified their reputation.

Mainstream Success (1990-2000)

The band's fourth album, Rust in Peace (1990), is considered one of the greatest thrash metal albums of all time. The lineup during this period included guitarist Marty Friedman and drummer Nick Menza. Their 1992 album, Countdown to Extinction, debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 and was certified double platinum in the United States.

Later Years and Recent Activities (2000-present)

Despite numerous lineup changes and personal struggles, Megadeth has continued to release albums and tour. Their fifteenth studio album, Dystopia, was released in 2016 and won a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance.

Band Members

Current Members

• Dave Mustaine – lead vocals, guitar (1983–present)
• David Ellefson – bass, backing vocals (1983–2002, 2010–2021)
• Kiko Loureiro – guitar (2015–present)
• Dirk Verbeuren – drums (2016–present)

Former Members

• Chris Poland – guitar (1984–1987, 2004)
• Gar Samuelson – drums (1984–1987)
• Marty Friedman – guitar (1990–2000)
• Nick Menza – drums (1989–1998, 2004)

Discography

• Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good! (1985)
• Peace Sells... but Who's Buying? (1986)
• So Far, So Good... So What! (1988)
• Rust in Peace (1990)
• Countdown to Extinction (1992)
• Youthanasia (1994)
• Cryptic Writings (1997)
• Risk (1999)
• The World Needs a Hero (2001)
• The System Has Failed (2004)
• United Abominations (2007)
• Endgame (2009)
• Thirteen (2011)
• Super Collider (2013)
• Dystopia (2016)

Related Pages

• Dave Mustaine
• David Ellefson
• Thrash metal
• Big Four (thrash metal)
• Metallica
• Slayer
• Anthrax (American band)