In a recent interview with Metal Edge magazine’s Andrew Daly, David Ellefson, former bassist of MEGADETH, opened up about his dismissal by Dave Mustaine in May 2021. Just days prior, sexually suggestive messages and explicit videos involving Ellefson were posted on Twitter, leading to his departure from the band.
Ellefson expressed his thoughts on the matter, transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
“I believe it was unnecessary. And it was unquestionably done with spite and resentment, which I did not deserve. Considering everything I have contributed to MEGADETH and the challenges I have endured over the years, I would say the entire ordeal was unjustified. Moreover, it was not what we had discussed regarding the transition process. The events unfolded unexpectedly. Thus, I had the choice to either accept it or retaliate, with the freedom to do so. My team said, ‘Hey, if you want to confront this person, go ahead. We have never witnessed something so morally wrong on every level. Take the necessary action.’ However, I chose differently. I decided to step back, let things unfold, and allow the power of the music to speak.”
When asked if he believes Mustaine feels threatened by Ellefson’s musical ventures outside of MEGADETH, such as DIETH and KINGS OF THRASH, David responded, saying, “I do. I also believe he detests the idea of my success beyond that realm. Now, I am the one involved in creating music, making decisions, and essentially taking charge. It was not like that in MEGADETH, which, by now, I think many people are aware of. Nevertheless, people adore that band because of the music we crafted together. Those songs will remain timeless, despite all the turmoil behind the scenes. So, when all of that happened, I simply said, ‘We have an incredible legacy, but it ends here. Do we want to engage in conflict or let the music speak for itself?’ I chose to let my music do the talking. And I genuinely believe it conveys a powerful message. I am firmly convinced that the material I have released since leaving MEGADETH is as good as, if not better than, anything they have produced.”
Ellefson also mentioned that the reason Mustaine continues to target him and fellow KINGS OF THRASH member Jeff Young through the media is due to “the intimidation factor.” Ellefson explained, “That is the sole reason behind it. I have witnessed the decline in the quality of MEGADETH’s output over the past five years, and it has been incredibly frustrating. I would bring ideas to the table, attempting to improve the situation, but those ideas would either be rejected outright or removed afterward. It was disheartening and aggressive to be intentionally undermined or excluded from the creative process. So, I said to myself, ‘Alright, I see what is happening here.’ There is an old saying, ‘Kids who don’t share their toys don’t have friends.’ Therefore, I decided, ‘I will take my toys and play with someone else.’ It may be a basic lesson learned in kindergarten, but apparently not within that band.”
