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The Day Megadeth’s David Ellefson Nearly Joined Metallica

Imagine a world where Megadeth’s bassist, David Ellefson, swapped his allegiance to join Metallica. In 2003, this scenario was closer to reality than ever…
By VIBING
By VIBING
Thrash metal’s intertwining sagas often read like a game of musical chairs – particularly between the heavyweights Megadeth and Metallica. In a twist unveiled by Dave Mustaine, it turns out David Ellefson, Megadeth’s legendary bassist, was in serious contention to join Metallica.

The year was 2003, a pivotal moment in Metallica’s storied history, as Jason Newsted’s departure left an ominous void within the ranks of the metal titans. Enter David Ellefson – Megadeth’s bassist – whose proficiency and legacy made him more than just a potential fill-in; he was a contender to become part of the Metallica family.

But how did an established cornerstone of Megadeth find himself on Metallica’s radar? It was none other than Dave Mustaine, Megadeth’s frontman, who brought the news to Ellefson. The revelation? “Lars called me, and you’re on a shortlist,” Mustaine announced, shedding light on what might have been one of the most monumental line-up shifts in metal history.

  • Ellefson’s technical prowess on the bass.
  • Metallica’s quest for a bassist post-Newsted era.
  • The shortlist phone call that changed everything.
  • Dave Mustaine’s unexpected role in Ellefson’s near-switch.

While Metallica ultimately went on to recruit Robert Trujillo to command the low frequencies, imagining Ellefson’s thrash roots enmeshed with Metallica’s sound stirs a sense of curiosity and wonder amongst metal enthusiasts. Despite paths not taken, both Ellefson and Metallica continued to forge their distinctive legacies within the genre they helped define.
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