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Dave Mustaine says Megadeth’s decision to record one final album and launch a farewell tour was sparked by something he could no longer ignore — worsening pain in his hands.
The band’s upcoming self-titled record, due next month, will serve as the last Megadeth album. After its release, the group will spend several years touring the world before Mustaine officially retires from full-time performing.
Why Megadeth Is Ending
During an interview on Trunk Nation, Mustaine explained that ongoing physical issues made him realize the time had come. He shared that arthritis, bulging discs, and long-standing spine problems have significantly impacted his playing.
“My hands were letting me down,” he said, adding that injuries in his neck and back — including a fused area near his shoulders and a broken lumbar bone — have made performing increasingly painful.
While working on the new album, the discomfort intensified. Mustaine recalled telling his manager he wasn’t sure how much longer he could push through. What began as a moment of honesty eventually led to conversations with his bandmates and family — and ultimately, the decision to bring Megadeth’s story to a close.
Will Mustaine Quit Music Entirely?
Although Megadeth will retire, Mustaine made it clear he doesn’t intend to walk away from music altogether. He just no longer wants to maintain the relentless pace of a global touring act.
He said he’ll continue creating in some capacity, but emphasized that if he can’t physically perform Megadeth-level music anymore, he won’t try to replicate that intensity elsewhere.
SOURCE: LoudWire