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Former Megadeth bassist David Ellefson is reflecting on his past, his growth, and what comes next — and he says his story has always been bigger than just one band.
In a recent appearance on Chris Akin Presents, Ellefson shared how he’s focused on building the next chapter of his life and career.
“I always joked my third memoir would be called ‘My Life After Deth,’” he said with a laugh, explaining that “you’ve gotta go live that life first before you can write that book.”
Looking back on his decades with Megadeth, Ellefson made it clear that while the band was a huge part of his journey, it never defined him completely.
“My life was always more than Megadeth,” he said. “I gave everything to that group, especially in those early years. But I decided I wasn’t going to put my life in the hands of one person ever again.”
After stepping away, Ellefson chose growth over resentment. Instead of dwelling on setbacks, he focused on family, education, and staying connected to music.
“Rather than get bitter, I tried to get better,” he explained.
He also acknowledged that the chaos inside Megadeth was part of what made the band so powerful.
“Great rock and roll always feels like it’s about to go off the tracks,” he said. “That’s what makes it exciting.”
Now in a different phase of life, Ellefson says music is what keeps him feeling grounded and young.
“Music keeps us young,” he shared. “That spark you get when you discover something new — that never really goes away.”
He pointed to long-running acts like The Rolling Stones and Kiss as proof that staying connected to music can keep artists energized — as long as they avoid self-destructive habits.
For Ellefson, everything comes back to his instrument.
“The bass has been my sidekick my whole life,” he said. “I think we’re in this together for life, me and that bass.”
He’s now preparing for his “Bass Warrior” European tour in March 2026, which will feature Megadeth classics, solo material, and songs that shaped his 40-year career. Support will come from MADO.
Ellefson originally joined Megadeth in 1983 and played with the group until 2002, before returning in 2010. His relationship with frontman Dave Mustaine included business disputes and legal issues, which he now believes came from poor communication.
“When Dave and I get in a room, it’s like, ‘Why are we fighting? Let’s play,’” he said. “Then it becomes about the music again.”
He added that Megadeth was always driven more by emotion than logic.
“It’s not of the head — it’s of the heart,” Ellefson explained. “That’s what music is.”
After his dismissal from the band in 2021, Ellefson shifted his focus fully to solo projects, touring, and staying creative. Today, he says his priority is simple.
“It’s about telling the story and keeping the music going,” he said.
SOURCE: Blabbermouth