Dave Mustaine Reflects on His Evolving Relationship with Metallica

Dave Mustaine, the iconic leader of Megadeth, has often been in the spotlight due to his tumultuous past with Metallica. As he approaches the release of his final album and the conclusion of his touring career, Mustaine is candidly discussing how his relationship with his former bandmates has evolved over the years.

Full Circle: Covering “Ride the Lightning”

Mustaine’s decision to cover Metallica’s “Ride the Lightning” on Megadeth’s final album has sparked considerable intrigue within the heavy metal community. He emphasizes that this was not merely a cover but a tribute to his roots, intended to bring his career full circle. In promoting the track, which will be featured as a bonus on Megadeth’s self-titled album, Mustaine has expressed his admiration for James Hetfield’s guitar work.

Current Dynamics with James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich

In a recent interview with Spin, Mustaine shed light on his ongoing relationship with Hetfield and Lars Ulrich. He described their connection as one that continues to develop over time. Reflecting on past disagreements, he remarked, “James and I were talking about something, and I said, ‘Well, there’s your version, there’s my version, and then there’s the truth.’ I believe that the truth is the only one that’s accurate, because I don’t really remember everything.”

Mustaine acknowledged the effort both he and his former bandmates are putting into improving their relationship. “We’re constantly working on improving our relationship, me and James and Lars,” he shared. “I really do love those guys. That’s why we fought so much—it was that I missed them. And the idea of leaving the band, it was just hard to fathom.”

Perspective on Life and Legacy

As he reflects on his journey, Mustaine noted the importance of cherishing each day and treating others with respect. “You try and put things into perspective as you get a little bit older. I think about where I am at in my journey: I’m on the backside of the mountain and I want to make sure that every day counts.”

Reimagining “Ride the Lightning”

Discussing the decision to reinterpret “Ride the Lightning,” Mustaine reiterated that it was a deliberate choice to honor his past with Metallica. “It wasn’t doing a cover song, because I wrote it with James and it was our creation,” he explained. He emphasized the necessity of delivering a version that does justice to the original, stating, “One thing I’ve always believed is when you do a song from someone else—even if it’s your band from an earlier time period—do it as good or better.”

Anticipation for Megadeth’s Final Album

With Megadeth’s final album set to release on January 23, the band is generating buzz with tracks like “Tipping Point,” “I Don’t Care,” and the recently released “Puppet Parade.” The anticipation is palpable as fans await the culmination of Mustaine’s decades-long career.

Upcoming Tour Schedule

The band is gearing up for a tour that kicks off on February 15 in Victoria, British Columbia, and will continue through various locations in Canada and South America, before heading to Europe in May. Fans can find detailed tour dates and ticketing information on Megadeth’s official website.

Conclusion

As Dave Mustaine prepares to close a significant chapter in his musical journey, his reflections on his relationship with Metallica reveal a sense of maturity and respect. The evolution of these connections serves as a reminder that even in the world of rock and metal, reconciliation and growth can lead to a deeper understanding of one another.

FAQs

What is the significance of Mustaine covering “Ride the Lightning”?

Mustaine’s cover of “Ride the Lightning” is intended as a tribute to his past with Metallica and aims to honor the contributions of James Hetfield and Lars Ulrich.

When will Megadeth’s final album be released?

Megadeth’s self-titled final album is scheduled for release on January 23.

What are the upcoming tour dates for Megadeth?

The band will begin their tour on February 15 in Victoria, British Columbia, and will continue through various locations in Canada, South America, and Europe.

How does Mustaine view his relationship with Hetfield and Ulrich now?

Mustaine describes his relationship with Hetfield and Ulrich as continually evolving, emphasizing mutual respect and the importance of improving their connection over time.