During a SiriusXM interview promoting Megadeth's latest album, frontman Dave Mustaine spoke about the band's decision to cover Metallica's "Ride The Lightning." He explained the challenge of reinterpreting a song made famous by his former band while adding modern touches to make it distinct.
Mustaine described how the band sped up the track, enhanced the drum parts, and divided guitar solos among players to differentiate their version. He acknowledged the difficulty of singing James Hetfield’s parts due to their unique vocal qualities, striving to deliver a respectful but original performance.
Reflecting on his history with Metallica, Mustaine shared anecdotes about discovering Hetfield's guitar skills and emphasized his respect for both Hetfield and Lars Ulrich. He framed the cover as a way to pay tribute and bring a sense of closure to their shared past.
The new Megadeth album also includes an exclusive bonus track called "Nobody’s Hero," highlighting the band's evolving creative process. The band is scheduled for a Canadian tour in 2026 and will join Iron Maiden on their North American run the same year.
Megadeth remains a significant force in metal with millions of records sold and numerous accolades. Mustaine continues to expand his influence beyond music, with ventures in the beverage industry and his own wine brand, House Of Mustaine.