10 Rock Bands That Survived Major Line-Up Changes
5. Megadeth
Once Dave Mustaine was sent packing from Metallica, he returned to California with an extra fury. Determined to make a band that could rival his former bandmates, he formed Megadeth with bassist David Ellefson. The original quartet was rounded out by Gar Samuelson and Chris Poland, but the fantastic riffs of the early years were destined to be shortlived.
Due to the drug problems of Poland and Samuelson, they were both sent packing with Mustaine hiring Jeff Young and Chuck Behler. After fluctuating with other members (including almost hiring Pantera guitarist Dimebag Darrell), the band reached a different sonic depth once they added guitarist Marty Friedman and drummer Nick Menza. The licks Friedman traded off with Mustaine made for some of the best Megadeth records from Rust In Peace to Countdown to Extinction.
Ever since the end of the 90's, the band have always had a semi-revolving doors policy on the guitarist and drummer positions. Fabulous guitarists like Chris Broderick and Kiko Loureiro have held the slot in recent years while the beat has been pounded out by absolute monsters like Shawn Drover and Lamb of God skinsman Chris Adler. The faces may not always be consistent, but each new lineup of this band always has a certain level of musicianship. Years may have passed since this band's beginnings, but Mustaine still has a desire to make Megadeth a true metallic powerhouse.