Former Megadeth Bassist David Ellefson Weighs in on Farewell Tour, Says He Would ‘Like To Be a Part of It’
As Megadeth gears up for what is rumored to be their final farewell tour, one of the band’s most recognizable former members has shared his thoughts. David Ellefson, the longtime bassist whose thunderous playing helped define the group’s sound for decades, has spoken openly about his interest in participating in the band’s swan song.
Ellefson co-founded Megadeth alongside Dave Mustaine in the early 1980s, becoming an integral part of the thrash metal juggernaut’s rise. From albums like Peace Sells… but Who’s Buying? to Countdown to Extinction, his basslines provided both backbone and aggression to the band’s signature style. Although his time with Megadeth ended controversially in 2021, Ellefson still holds affection for the music and the legacy they created.
In a recent interview, Ellefson acknowledged the rumors swirling around Megadeth’s farewell tour and expressed both respect and curiosity. “If they are truly calling it a day, it’s a big moment — not just for the band but for the fans who’ve been there since the beginning,” he said. “Of course, I would like to be a part of it. It’s part of my life’s work, and sharing that stage one last time would mean a lot.”
His comments have already sparked discussion within the metal community. Some fans see a potential reunion as a fitting way to close the book on Megadeth’s four-decade legacy, bringing original members back together for a full-circle moment. Others remain cautious, pointing to past tensions between Ellefson and Mustaine as potential barriers.
For Ellefson, however, the focus seems to be on the fans and the music. He emphasized that any participation would not be about revisiting old conflicts but about honoring the enduring spirit of Megadeth and giving the audience a farewell they deserve. “At the end of the day, Megadeth has always been about the music,” he noted. “If there’s a way to celebrate that together one last time, I’m open to it.”
As anticipation builds for official details about the farewell tour, Ellefson’s willingness to return adds another layer of intrigue. Whether or not he joins, his comments remind fans of the band’s deep history and the indelible mark Megadeth has left on heavy metal.