History of Dave Mustaine in Timeline

Dave Mustaine is a highly influential figure in heavy metal music. As the founder and driving force behind Megadeth, he has achieved global recognition with over 38 million albums sold. Mustaine's aggressive guitar playing and songwriting have earned him critical acclaim, including a Grammy Award win for the song "Dystopia." His enduring career and impact on the genre solidify his status as a metal icon.

September 13, 1961: Birth of Dave Mustaine

On September 13, 1961, David Scott Mustaine, the iconic musician, was born.

1965: Mustaine's Parents' Divorce

In 1965, when Dave Mustaine was four years old, his parents divorced after his father's struggles with alcohol worsened.

1981: Panic Band Dissolution and Tragedy

Dave Mustaine's first band, Panic, disbanded in 1981. Following a gig, drummer Mike Leftwych and a sound man tragically died in a car accident.

1981: Dave Mustaine Joins Metallica

In a pivotal moment in 1981, Dave Mustaine joined Metallica as lead guitarist after responding to an ad.

April 11, 1983: Dave Mustaine Fired from Metallica

On April 11, 1983, Dave Mustaine's time in Metallica ended abruptly when he was fired due to substance abuse and conflicts with band members.

April 1983: Formation of Fallen Angels

In April 1983, after parting ways with Metallica, Dave Mustaine formed the short-lived band Fallen Angels.

1983: Metallica Starts Recording "Kill 'Em All"

Metallica began recording their debut album, "Kill 'Em All," in 1983, marking the start of their legendary discography.

1984: Megadeth's Early Formation and Lineup Changes

In 1984, Dave Mustaine's band Megadeth underwent lineup changes, including the addition of drummer Gar Samuelson and guitarist Chris Poland.

1984: Release of Metallica's "Ride the Lightning"

Metallica released their second album, "Ride the Lightning," in 1984, which included two songs co-written by Dave Mustaine before his departure from the band.

June 1985: Release of "Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good!"

In June 1985, Megadeth released their debut album, "Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good!," marking their entry into the metal scene.

September 19, 1986: Peace Sells... but Who's Buying? Release

On September 19, 1986, Megadeth, signed to Capitol Records, released their second studio album, 'Peace Sells... but Who's Buying?'. The album is considered a thrash metal classic, with the title track's bass line being used by MTV News.

1986: Dave Mustaine's Collaboration with Jackson Guitars

Dave Mustaine's influence on guitar design became evident in 1986 when Jackson Guitars created a custom guitar based on his specifications, leading to the production of the Dave Mustaine signature series Jackson King V.

February 1987: Megadeth Opens for Alice Cooper

Megadeth kicked off February 1987 by joining Alice Cooper's 'Constrictor' tour as the opening act.

1987: Mustaine Switches to Jackson Guitars

After using B.C. Rich guitars during his early career and time with Metallica, Dave Mustaine transitioned to Jackson Guitars in 1987.

January 1988: So Far, So Good... So What! Release

January 1988 saw the release of Megadeth's third studio album, 'So Far, So Good... So What!'. The album includes the song 'In My Darkest Hour', a tribute to the late Metallica bassist, Cliff Burton.

1988: Riot at Megadeth Concert in Northern Ireland

A riot broke out during a 1988 Megadeth concert in Northern Ireland after Dave Mustaine dedicated a song to "the cause," which was interpreted as support for the Irish Republican Army (IRA).

1988: Release of "So Far, So Good... So What!"

In 1988, Megadeth, the band founded by Dave Mustaine, released their third studio album, "So Far, So Good... So What!," featuring the song "Set the World Afire."

1989: Mustaine's Struggles and Lineup Changes

In 1989, Dave Mustaine grappled with drug addiction, leading to the firing of band members and a stint in rehabilitation. The band, temporarily a three-piece, recorded 'No More Mr. Nice Guy' for the film 'Shocker'.

1989: Auditioning Marty Friedman

In 1989, Megadeth held auditions to fill the vacant lead guitarist position. Marty Friedman, formerly of Cacophony, successfully auditioned.

February 1990: Marty Friedman Joins Megadeth

Following the departure of previous members, guitarist Marty Friedman joined Megadeth in February 1990 after the disbanding of his previous group, Cacophony.

1990: Megadeth Tours with Scorpions

Megadeth embarked on a North American tour in September with the Scorpions, supporting their "Crazy World Tour," named after the Scorpions' 1990 album.

1991: Megadeth and Metallica Share a Stage

After years apart, Megadeth and Metallica, two of the biggest names in metal, shared the same stage in 1991.

1991: Dave Mustaine's Marriage

Dave Mustaine married Pamela Anne Casselberry in 1991, marking a significant personal milestone.

1991: Marriage to Pamela Anne Casselberry

Dave Mustaine married Pamela Anne Casselberry in 1991.

1991: Collaboration with Diamond Head

In 1991, Dave Mustaine continued his collaboration with Diamond Head, appearing on their album 'Death and Progress'.

1991: Megadeth's Success and Collaborations

Megadeth's success continued in 1991 with a performance at Rock in Rio and a world tour. Mustaine collaborated with Sean Harris of Diamond Head on the track 'Crown of Worms'.

February 11, 1992: Birth of Justis Mustaine

On February 11, 1992, Dave Mustaine and his wife, Pamela, welcomed their son, Justis Mustaine.

1992: Coverage of the Democratic National Convention for MTV

Dave Mustaine provided coverage of the 1992 Democratic National Convention for MTV.

1992: Birth of Son, Justis Mustaine

Dave Mustaine's son, Justis Mustaine, was born in 1992.

1992: Mustaine Reports for MTV News at Democratic National Convention

In 1992, Dave Mustaine worked as a reporter for MTV News during the Democratic National Convention, showcasing a political leaning towards the left, especially considering the lyrics of Megadeth's song "Foreclosure of a Dream".

1993: Collaborations and Controversies

Dave Mustaine collaborated with Diamond Head on their new album in 1993. Megadeth faced controversy and tour cancellations due to Mustaine's comments and ongoing struggles with addiction.

1994: Youthanasia Release and MTV Special

Megadeth released their sixth studio album, 'Youthanasia', in 1994. The band also recorded a cover of Black Sabbath's 'Paranoid' and were featured on MTV's 'Night of the Living Megadeth'.

1995: Hidden Treasures and Tours

Megadeth released the 'Hidden Treasures' compilation album in 1995, embarked on the 'Youthanasia' tour with Corrosion of Conformity, and later the 'Reckoning Day' tour with various guests.

1996: Grammy Nomination and MD.45

Megadeth received a Grammy nomination for 'Paranoid' in 1996. Dave Mustaine, under the moniker 'MD.45', released 'The Craving' with members of Fear, Suicidal Tendencies, and Goldfinger.

1997: Release of Cryptic Writings and Other Notable Events

1997 was a big year for Megadeth, marked by the release of their album "Cryptic Writings," featuring a mix of thrash metal and radio-friendly tracks. The song "Trust" achieved mainstream success, and the band toured with Misfits. Additionally, Megadeth ventured into the comic book world with "The Cryptic Writings of Megadeth" and contributed to the "Mortal Kombat Annihilation" soundtrack.

January 28, 1998: Birth of Electra Mustaine and Notable Events of 1998

On January 28, 1998, Dave Mustaine's daughter, Electra Mustaine, was born. This year also saw "Trust" nominated for a Grammy, Megadeth's appearance on the Howard Stern Show, and their participation in Ozzfest. However, it also marked the end of Nick Menza's time as the band's drummer. They concluded the year opening for Black Sabbath at Chase Field.

1998: Birth of Daughter, Electra Mustaine

Dave Mustaine's daughter, Electra Mustaine, was born in 1998.

August 31, 1999: Release of Risk and Departure of Marty Friedman

Megadeth released their album "Risk" on August 31, 1999, which marked a departure in their sound with more commercially driven influences. The song "Crush 'Em" was featured in "Universal Soldier: The Return" and WCW wrestling events. This era saw internal conflicts regarding the band's direction, ultimately leading to Marty Friedman's departure at the end of the year.

May 2001: Release of The World Needs a Hero and Other Events

May 2001 saw the release of Megadeth's album "The World Needs a Hero." Following its release, the band embarked on a tour supporting AC/DC and another across North America with Endo and Iced Earth. This year also featured the release of VH1's "Behind the Music" special on the band.

January 2002: Mustaine's Health Challenges and Relapse

In January 2002, Dave Mustaine faced serious health challenges. While hospitalized for a kidney stone removal, pain medication triggered a relapse. During his subsequent treatment, he suffered nerve damage in his left arm, severely impacting his ability to play guitar. This period was a significant setback for Mustaine, both personally and professionally.

April 3, 2002: Disbanding of Megadeth

On April 3, 2002, Dave Mustaine announced the disbanding of Megadeth. The decision was primarily attributed to his arm injury, which cast uncertainty on his ability to continue playing guitar. This announcement marked a significant turning point for the band, leaving fans to wonder about their future.

2002: Release of Rude Awakening and Reissues

In 2002, Megadeth treated fans to a live album and DVD, "Rude Awakening," capturing their performances in Arizona. They also revisited their past with a remixed and remastered release of "Killing Is My Business...," complete with bonus tracks and expanded packaging, offering a fresh take on their earlier work.

2003: Mustaine's Recovery and Exploration of Other Ventures

Throughout 2003, Dave Mustaine focused on recovering from his arm injury, undergoing intensive physical therapy. As he regained his strength, he explored other facets of the music industry, including production, hinting at his evolving interests. Despite the uncertainty, fans remained hopeful for Megadeth's potential return.

September 14, 2004: Release of The System Has Failed and Megadeth's Return

September 14, 2004, marked the return of Megadeth with their album "The System Has Failed." Initially intended as a solo project, the album signaled Mustaine's resurgence and the continuation of Megadeth, featuring contributions from Chris Poland. A new touring lineup was also announced, breathing fresh energy into the band.

2004: Mustaine Criticizes Presidential Candidate John Kerry

Dave Mustaine expressed his disapproval of John Kerry during the 2004 presidential campaign, stating his belief that Kerry would "ruin our country."

2004: Guitar World Magazine Ranking

Guitar World magazine ranked Dave Mustaine and Marty Friedman as the 19th greatest heavy metal guitarists of all time in 2004.

2004: ESP Guitars Endorsement and DV8 Signature Model Release

In 2004, Dave Mustaine partnered with ESP Guitars, releasing his signature DV8 model at the NAMM convention.

February 2005: Start of "Blackmail The Universe" Tour

Megadeth hit the road in February 2005 with their "Blackmail The Universe" tour, supported by Diamond Head and Dungeon. This marked their return to live performances after the band's reformation. Notably, Mustaine brought a spiritual counselor on tour, demonstrating his commitment to personal well-being and avoiding past pitfalls.

2005: ESP Axxion Wins Guitar World Magazine Gold Award

Dave Mustaine's ESP Axxion guitar design received the Gold Award for new guitar designs from Guitar World Magazine in 2005.

2005: Release of the ESP Axxion

In 2005, Dave Mustaine and ESP Guitars celebrated Megadeth's 20th anniversary by releasing the ESP Axxion guitar.

2005: Mustaine Launches Gigantour

In the summer of 2005, Dave Mustaine launched Gigantour, a traveling North American metal festival. The inaugural Gigantour lasted six weeks and featured Megadeth and Dream Theater as co-headliners, along with other metal acts like Fear Factory and the Dillinger Escape Plan.

March 21, 2006: Release of Arsenal of Megadeth

On March 21, 2006, Megadeth released "Arsenal of Megadeth," a two-disc DVD anthology offering fans a retrospective of their music videos and live performances. This release coincided with lineup changes and their preparation for a new album.

May 2006: Signing with Roadrunner Records and Recording at SARM Studios

In May 2006, Megadeth secured a worldwide deal with Roadrunner Records, marking a significant step in their career. The band commenced recording their album "United Abominations" at the legendary SARM studios in the UK, owned by David Gilmour of Pink Floyd.

September 2006: Second Gigantour Commences

The second edition of Gigantour commenced in September 2006, headlined by Megadeth, Lamb of God, Opeth, and Arch Enemy. The festival also featured a second stage with performances by Overkill, Into Eternity, Sanctity, and The SmashUp.

December 6, 2006: Departure from ESP Guitars and Move to Dean Guitars

On December 6, 2006, Dave Mustaine announced his departure from ESP Guitars and his new endorsement deal with Dean Guitars.

January 19, 2007: Unveiling of the Dean VMNT Signature Guitar

On January 19, 2007, Dave Mustaine's new signature guitar with Dean Guitars, the Dean VMNT, was revealed at the NAMM Show.

May 15, 2007: Release of United Abominations

Megadeth's eleventh studio album, "United Abominations," hit the shelves on May 15, 2007. Despite facing pre-release leaks, the album showcased the band's evolving sound and their return to a prominent label, Roadrunner Records.

2007: Mustaine's Attendance at NAMM Show 2007

Dave Mustaine attended the 2007 NAMM Show to interact with fans and fellow musicians.

2007: Mustaine Named Goodwill Ambassador by World Taekwondo Federation

Dave Mustaine was honored as a Goodwill Ambassador of the World by the World Taekwondo Federation in 2007.

2007: Gigantour 2007

The 2007 installment of Gigantour featured Megadeth as headliners, along with supporting acts Bring Me the Horizon, Static-X, DevilDriver, and Lacuna Coil.

January 13, 2008: Glen Drover's Departure and Chris Broderick's Arrival

On January 13, 2008, guitarist Glen Drover announced his departure from Megadeth to prioritize his family. The band quickly found their replacement in Chris Broderick, formerly of Jag Panzer, who would bring his own style and virtuosity to their music.

March 2008: Megadeth's First Concert in Bangalore, India

In March 2008, Megadeth embarked on their first-ever tour to India, performing a concert in Bangalore.

2008: "Megadeth Blood in the Water: Live in San Diego" Premieres on HDNet

"Megadeth Blood in the Water: Live in San Diego," a concert film recorded during the 2008 Gigantour, premiered on HDNet on November 2nd. The film showcased Megadeth's performance in San Diego during the tour.

2008: Gigantour 2008

The 2008 edition of Gigantour featured a lineup consisting of Megadeth, Children of Bodom, In Flames, High on Fire, and Job for a Cowboy. Evile joined the tour for the UK and Scandinavia dates.

March 2009: Mustaine Discusses Guitar Influences on Bruce Dickinson's Radio Show

During a guest appearance on Bruce Dickinson's Friday night radio show in March 2009, Dave Mustaine shared that his preference for the Flying V guitar stemmed from his admiration for UFO guitarist Michael Schenker during his youth.

September 15, 2009: Release of Endgame

Megadeth unleashed their twelfth studio album, "Endgame," on September 15, 2009. This album showcased their return to a heavier sound, reflecting their evolving musical direction and Chris Broderick's influence on their music.

September 2009: Recognition as No. 1 Metal Guitarist

In September 2009, Joel McIver's book, "The 100 Greatest Metal Guitarists," named Dave Mustaine the No. 1 guitarist.

2009: Use of Dean Zero on Endgame Tour

Dave Mustaine began using the Dean Zero guitar during the later dates of Megadeth's 2009 Endgame tour.

2009: Mustaine Discusses "Endgame" Inspiration with Alex Jones

In 2009, Dave Mustaine discussed the inspiration behind Megadeth's album "Endgame" in an interview with Alex Jones on InfoWars, citing his Christian beliefs and his belief in an impending New World Order.

August 3, 2010: Release of Mustaine's Autobiography

On August 3, 2010, Dave Mustaine released his autobiography titled "Mustaine: A Heavy Metal Memoir" in the United States. The book covers Mustaine's life from his childhood to the release of Megadeth's 2009 album "Endgame."

September 2010: Mustaine Composes "Sudden Death" for "Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock"

Dave Mustaine, under the name of his band Megadeth, composed the song "Sudden Death" for the video game "Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock", released in September 2010. The game also featured other Megadeth songs: "Holy Wars... The Punishment Due" and "This Day We Fight!".

2010: David Ellefson's Return and Rust in Peace 20th Anniversary Tour

In 2010, bassist David Ellefson rejoined Megadeth after eight years, mending past differences with Mustaine. The band celebrated the 20th anniversary of their iconic album "Rust in Peace" with a dedicated tour, performing the album in its entirety. This reunion marked a new chapter for Megadeth, emphasizing their renewed bond and commitment to their legacy.

2010: Debut of the Dean Zero Guitar

The Dean Zero, a new signature guitar for Dave Mustaine, was introduced by Dean Guitars in 2010.

September 14, 2011: "The Big Four" Concert at Yankee Stadium

On September 14, 2011, "The Big Four" thrash metal bands (Megadeth, Metallica, Anthrax, and Slayer) concluded their tour with a final concert at Yankee Stadium in New York City.

November 2011: Gigantour Revival Announced

The revival of Gigantour was announced in November 2011, marking the return of the traveling metal festival after a three-year break.

December 2011: Mustaine Performs at Metallica's 30th Anniversary Celebration

In December 2011, Dave Mustaine made an appearance at Metallica's 30th-anniversary celebration at the Fillmore Theater. He performed five songs from Metallica's debut album.

2011: Stenosis Diagnosis

Dave Mustaine revealed in 2011 that he had been diagnosed with stenosis, a neck and spine condition.

2011: Mustaine Calls Obama "The Most Divisive President"

In 2011, Dave Mustaine made critical comments about President Barack Obama, labeling him as "the most divisive president we've ever had."

January 26, 2012: Gigantour Revival Kicks Off

After a brief hiatus, Gigantour returned in 2012 with a lineup featuring Megadeth, Motörhead, Volbeat, and Lacuna Coil. The tour began on January 26th at the Susquehanna Bank Center in Camden, New Jersey.

February 2012: Mustaine Expresses Support for Rick Santorum

In February 2012, Dave Mustaine voiced his support for Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum, highlighting Santorum's "presidential qualities" and commending his decision to briefly suspend his campaign to be with his sick daughter. While Mustaine expressed a hope for Santorum's nomination, he clarified that his statement wasn't an official endorsement and emphasized his intention to vote against President Obama's re-election.

March 2012: Mustaine Voices Belief in Obama Birther Conspiracy

In a March 2012 interview on George Stroumboulopoulos Tonight, Dave Mustaine expressed his belief that President Barack Obama was born outside the United States, aligning himself with the "birther" conspiracy theory.

August 2012: Mustaine Accuses Obama of Staging Shootings

During an August 2012 Megadeth concert in Singapore, Dave Mustaine made controversial statements accusing President Obama of orchestrating the shootings in Aurora, Colorado, and at a Wisconsin Sikh temple to further a gun control agenda. He also criticized the "Fast and Furious" scandal and expressed concerns about the country becoming like "Nazi America."

2012: Guitar World Magazine Reader's Poll Ranking

In 2012, a Guitar World magazine reader's poll placed Dave Mustaine as the 12th greatest guitarist of all time.

October 4, 2014: Mustaine's Mother-in-Law Goes Missing

On October 4, 2014, Dave Mustaine's mother-in-law, who suffered from Alzheimer's disease, was reported missing from a campground.

November 2014: Departures of Chris Broderick and Shawn Drover from Megadeth

In late November 2014, Megadeth experienced lineup changes with the departure of lead guitarist Chris Broderick and drummer Shawn Drover. Both musicians cited creative differences as the reason for their exit.

2014: Residence in Nashville, Tennessee

As of 2014, Dave Mustaine and his family resided in Nashville, Tennessee.

March 2015: Chris Adler and Kiko Loureiro Join Megadeth

In March 2015, Megadeth announced Chris Adler of Lamb of God as their new drummer, replacing Shawn Drover. Kiko Loureiro of Angra was also revealed as the band's new lead guitarist, taking over for Chris Broderick.

March 31, 2015: Megadeth Tracks Removed from "Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock"

On March 31, 2015, all downloadable content, including Megadeth's tracks "Symphony of Destruction", "Hangar 18", and "Peace Sells", was removed from the video game "Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock".

2015: Seymour Duncan Signature Live Wire Pickups Release

Dave Mustaine's signature Seymour Duncan Live Wire pickups were launched at NAMM 2015.

January 7, 2016: Release of "Dystopia" Single

On January 7, 2016, Megadeth released "Dystopia," the title track from their upcoming album, as a single. This followed the release of "Fatal Illusion" in October and "The Threat Is Real" in November.

January 22, 2016: Release of "Dystopia" Album

Megadeth released their 15th studio album, "Dystopia," on January 22, 2016. The album debuted at number 3 on the Billboard 200, marking Megadeth's highest charting album since 1992's "Countdown to Extinction."

2016: Mustaine Identifies as Political Independent

During a 2016 Fox Business interview, Dave Mustaine stated that he doesn't align with any established political party and considers himself an Independent.

2016: Mustaine Expresses Interest in More "Big Four" Shows

In 2016, Dave Mustaine expressed interest in organizing more "Big Four" shows, featuring Megadeth, Metallica, Anthrax, and Slayer. However, the idea seemed unlikely due to Slayer's disbandment.

February 2017: Megadeth Wins Grammy Award for "Dystopia"

Megadeth won their first-ever Grammy Award in February 2017. The band received the award for Best Metal Performance for their title track "Dystopia" from their 2016 album of the same name.

2017: Mustaine Featured on Brett Kissel's Song "Damn!"

Dave Mustaine made a guest appearance on country singer Brett Kissel's song "Damn!" from Kissel's 2017 album "We Were That Song".

2017: Megadeth Wins Grammy Award

In 2017, Dave Mustaine's band, Megadeth, achieved a significant milestone by winning a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance for their song "Dystopia."

June 17, 2019: Throat Cancer Diagnosis

On June 17, 2019, Dave Mustaine publicly announced that he had been diagnosed with throat cancer.

2019: Dave Mustaine's Cancer Battle

In 2019, Dave Mustaine faced a health challenge when he was diagnosed with throat cancer.

January 31, 2020: Announcement of Being Cancer-Free

During a Megadeth concert on January 31, 2020, Dave Mustaine shared that he was now cancer-free.

January 2021: Mustaine Awarded Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

In January 2021, Dave Mustaine achieved the rank of Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

2021: End of Endorsement with Dean Guitars

Dave Mustaine used Dean Guitars, specifically the Dean VMNT and Zero models, until 2021.

2021: Endorsement Deal with Gibson

In February 2021, Dave Mustaine announced that he would be endorsing Gibson guitars after leaving Dean Guitars.

2021: Dave Mustaine Collection Launched with Gibson

In February 2021, Dave Mustaine partnered with Gibson to launch the Dave Mustaine Collection. The collection includes a range of acoustic and electric guitars produced under the Gibson, Epiphone, and Kramer brands.