In a candid interview with LifeMinute, Megadeth frontman Dave Mustaine shared his thoughts on the evolution of rock music, specifically criticizing the nu metal genre and the current state of guitar playing. Mustaine expressed his relief that nu metal is no longer dominating the music scene, stating, “There was a period in 2000 where we had these bands called — I think it was ‘nu metal,’ and they didn’t do any solos. Well, why didn’t they do any solos? They couldn’t do solos. And thank God that genre went away.”
Mustaine, known for his iconic guitar skills, added, “People started to learn how to do solos. I would say, if you’re in a ‘nu metal’ band, you probably would be challenged even playing ‘Johnny B. Goode.’ So I’m glad that went away.” He voiced his dissatisfaction with the genre’s lack of technical guitar work, suggesting that many nu metal bands were incapable of playing classic rock solos like Chuck Berry’s famous tune.
Mustaine Reflects on Modern Rock and Guitar Playing
Asked if any new bands have caught his attention, Mustaine expressed his preference for older music. “Well, I like some of the older music because new stuff — I mean, all the good chords are taken,” he said. He also noted the impact of technology on modern music, mentioning how millions of kids now post guitar riffs online. While Mustaine acknowledged the creativity of some musicians, he criticized the rise of “manufactured records,” claiming, “When you start seeing these manufactured records that band members didn’t play on, that’s fraud.”
However, it wasn’t all criticism. Mustaine took a moment to praise one guitarist in particular: Pink Floyd’s David Gilmour. “One of my favorite guitar players is one of the simplest guys in the world — it’s the guy from Pink Floyd, David Gilmour,” Mustaine said. “He could do more with one note than some of the guys playing nowadays can do with 12.” Mustaine emphasized the importance of feeling and connection with the instrument, explaining, “The guitar, you’re touching it, so it’s an extension of your spirit, your soul, and how you make it sound.”
A Candid Take on Musical Evolution
Mustaine compared the art of guitar playing to that of other instruments, like the violin. “Playing a violin — violin has gotta be one of the most dreadful sounds ever when you’re learning it, because the sound of it and rosin the bow and all that stuff is almost as bad as having someone practice on a wind instrument, like a sax or a clarinet,” he joked. This light-hearted analogy highlighted Mustaine’s belief that musicians should grow with their instrument, bonding with it deeply to create true art.
While Mustaine’s remarks on nu metal and modern guitarists might stir controversy, his appreciation for mastery, simplicity, and feeling in music remains clear. As the music world continues to evolve, his reflections offer a glimpse into his personal perspective on the changing landscape of rock and guitar playing.
