After more than 40 years at the forefront of heavy metal, Megadeth has announced their farewell. The band will release one final studio album in early 2026, followed by a global farewell tour later that year.
“There are so many musicians who don’t get to go out on their own terms,” said frontman Dave Mustaine in a statement. “I’m lucky to be at a place in my life where I can. I’ve travelled the world and made millions of fans. The hardest part is saying goodbye to them.”
While exact tour dates are yet to be announced, the band confirmed it will take place in 2026 and will span multiple countries.
Formed in 1983 after Mustaine’s departure from Metallica, Megadeth quickly rose to prominence and helped pioneer the thrash metal movement. Their debut album, ‘Killing Is My Business…’ and ‘Business Is Good!’ (1985), was followed by ‘Peace Sells… But Who’s Buying?’, which earned them their first platinum certification.
Over four decades, the band released 16 studio albums; five of which went platinum and maintained a devoted global fanbase.
Their most recent album, ‘The Sick, the Dying… and the Dead!’ (2022), debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 chart.
Mustaine, the band’s founder, lead vocalist, and guitarist, has remained the group’s only consistent member throughout its history. Alongside the band’s final album, he will also release a new memoir next year.
Reflecting on Megadeth’s legacy, Mustaine said: “We started something unique, something that may never happen again. We created a musical style, changed how the guitar is played and influenced generations. I’m grateful to everyone who’s been part of this journey. Thank you for everything.”
