DAVID ELLEFSON Says DAVE MUSTAINE Re-Recording ‘No Life ‘Til Leather’ Demo Would Have Been ‘Extremely Disrespectful’ To METALLICA

DAVID ELLEFSON Says DAVE MUSTAINE Re-Recording ‘No Life ‘Til Leather’ Demo Would Have Been ‘Extremely Disrespectful’ To METALLICA

February 20, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom Entertainment

Former Megadeth bassist David Ellefson recently discussed the circumstances surrounding his departure from the band and the completion of their 2022 album, “The Sick, The Dying… And The Dead!” in an interview with César Fuentes Rodríguez. The conversation revealed a contentious split stemming from events in 2021, and lingering frustrations over creative decisions made by bandleader Dave Mustaine.

A Contentious Departure

Ellefson laid down the original bass tracks for “The Sick, The Dying… And The Dead!” in May 2020. However, just over a year later, he was removed from Megadeth following the online posting of sexually suggestive messages and video footage. Mustaine subsequently announced that Ellefson’s bass contributions would not be included on the album, a decision Ellefson now characterizes as “stupid” and unnecessary.

Did You Know? James LoMenzo, a previous Megadeth bassist, rejoined the band in 2021 after Steve DiGiorgio recorded his bass parts for “The Sick, The Dying… And The Dead!”

According to Ellefson, even Mustaine’s own lawyer advised against his dismissal, noting there were no legal ramifications arising from the online content. Ellefson stated he proactively addressed the situation himself, rather than relying on public relations assistance. He also suggested a pattern of similar dismissals within Megadeth’s history, referencing the departures of former members Chris Poland and Jeff Young.

Creative Differences and a Farewell Tour

The interview also highlighted a significant disagreement regarding Mustaine’s desire to re-record the Metallica demo “No Life ‘Til Leather” in 2018. Ellefson opposed the idea, arguing it was disrespectful to Metallica and inconsistent with Megadeth’s identity. This clash, he claims, marked a turning point in his relationship with Mustaine, leading to a six-month period of silence and ultimately impacting his contributions to “The Sick, The Dying… And The Dead!”

Ellefson explained that while his songwriting contributions were largely rejected, a ballad he wrote and performed with guitarist Kiko Loureiro was well-received, even drawing comparisons to KISS’s “Beth.” Despite this, he was ultimately removed from the band. He expressed a willingness to participate in a reunion should the opportunity arise, particularly in the context of Megadeth’s current “farewell” tour.

Expert Insight: The dynamic between band leaders and members often involves complex creative and personal tensions. A band’s legacy and artistic direction can be significantly impacted by these internal conflicts, particularly when a founding member exerts strong control over the group’s output.

Ellefson emphasized the enduring power of Megadeth’s music, stating that the songs will outlive the band members themselves. He continues to perform and celebrate metal music through projects like “Basstory,” “Kings of Thrash,” and “Metal Allegiance.” He acknowledged Mustaine’s ultimate authority over Megadeth, stating he accepts that Mustaine “owns Megadeth and he will do whatever he wants.”

A Surprise Cover and Lingering Questions

Ellefson expressed surprise at Megadeth’s decision to record a version of Metallica’s “Ride The Lightning” for their final album, a song Mustaine co-wrote during his time with Metallica. He noted that if the song had been finalized during Mustaine’s tenure with Metallica, it would have likely appeared on their debut album, “Kill ‘Em All.”

He also reiterated his previous statements regarding the “No Life ‘Til Leather” situation, emphasizing his discomfort with the idea and the subsequent fallout with Mustaine. Ellefson maintains a respectful, if distant, stance towards Mustaine, wishing him well despite their fractured relationship.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted David Ellefson’s removal from Megadeth?

David Ellefson was removed from Megadeth in 2021 following the online posting of sexually suggestive messages and video footage. Dave Mustaine subsequently decided to replace his bass tracks on the album “The Sick, The Dying… And The Dead!”

What was David Ellefson’s reaction to having his bass tracks removed from the album?

Ellefson described the decision to remove his bass tracks as “stupid” and “unnecessary,” stating that there were no legal issues stemming from the online content and that even Mustaine’s lawyer advised against the dismissal.

What caused the initial rift between David Ellefson and Dave Mustaine?

The initial rift stemmed from a disagreement in 2018 over Mustaine’s desire to re-record the Metallica demo “No Life ‘Til Leather.” Ellefson opposed the idea, believing it was disrespectful to Metallica and inconsistent with Megadeth’s identity.

Considering the long and often turbulent history of band dynamics in the metal genre, what role do you think personal relationships play in the creative process and ultimate success of a musical group?