Megadeth’s Final Album Features Dave Mustaine’s Metallica Cover, Highlights Tour Plans

Megadeth’s self‑titled final studio album, released in January 2026, includes a cover of Metallica’s 1984 title track “Ride the Lightning.” Lead guitarist and vocalist Dave Mustaine said the rendition pushed his vocal ability and praised James Hetfield as a “great singer.” He explained that the guitar solo was split between guitarist Teemu Mäntysaari (first third and final part) and himself (middle section) because he could not recall his original Metallica solo.

Mustaine, a former Metallica member who co‑wrote the song before his 1983 departure, said the cover was a way to “close the circle” and honor the band that launched his career. The band performed the cover live for the first time on 26 April at Movistar Arena in Bogotá, Colombia.

Megadeth wrapped the European leg of its expected farewell tour in Portugal on 5 July and will begin a North American summer leg on 18 July in Reno, Nevada, followed by dates supporting Iron Maiden and shows in Canada and the United States.