David Ellefson Open to Reconciliation with Dave Mustaine Amid Megadeth Farewell
Former Megadeth bassist David Ellefson has expressed a willingness to reconnect with bandmate Dave Mustaine and potentially participate in the band’s farewell tour, despite a strained relationship and recent public disagreements.
During a discussion on “The David Ellefson Show” with co-host Joshua Toomey, Ellefson addressed the recent passing of musicians like Ace Frehley and Ozzy Osbourne, and whether those events prompted thoughts of reaching out to Mustaine, with whom he’s been estranged for nearly four and a half years. “I had someone say that [to me] after I finished [playing at] the Ozzy gig [at ‘Back To The Beginning’ in early July], just saying, ‘Dude, let’s just get over it,’” Ellefson recounted. He acknowledged the complex nature of their relationship, stating, “Me and Dave were always together as a band… It was always sort of angled with us being in the band together.” Mustaine announced Megadeth’s plans for a final album and world tour earlier this year, sparking speculation about a potential reunion with former members.
Ellefson clarified that while Mustaine has publicly stated he doesn’t wish to play music with him again, he would still take a call. “Look, he’s got his own [incarnation of MEGADETH], he’s got his own record, he’s got his new music. I’m not part of that,” Ellefson said. He added, reflecting on the limited time everyone has, “There is something to be said for that, because, look, none of us get out of here alive… Our time is limited.” He drew a parallel to KISS’s recent farewell shows, questioning why former members weren’t included, stating, “But I think in Gene [Simmons] and Paul’s [Stanley] mind, as a band guy myself, it’s, like, ‘Well, he’s not part of the band. He’s just not part of the act.’” This situation highlights the often-difficult dynamics of band reunions and the desire for closure among musicians and fans alike. The band’s history has been marked by internal conflict, including a lawsuit between Ellefson and Mustaine in 2005 over royalties, as detailed by Blabbermouth.
Ellefson emphasized that a reconciliation doesn’t require a personal friendship, comparing it to family gatherings where obligations outweigh personal feelings. “You don’t go because it’s all fun and games. You go because at one point those will be the last memories you have,” he explained. He expressed hope for a chance to “close the circle” with Megadeth, even if it’s just for one final performance. Officials have not yet commented on whether discussions regarding Ellefson’s potential involvement in the farewell tour are underway.
