Dave Mustaine has confirmed that Megadeth’s upcoming farewell tour, dubbed the This Was Our Life trek, will begin in 2026 and likely run for three to five years, according to a new interview with Kerrang!. At 64, Mustaine admits that he’s not focused on longevity just for the sake of it — “I have to remember that people live and they die,” he said, adding that he needs to take care of himself as age catches up.
This epic farewell tour will support Megadeth’s self‑titled final album, due January 23, 2026, via Mustaine’s own Tradecraft label in partnership with BLKIIBLK. Among the record’s 11 tracks is a reimagined version of Metallica’s classic “Ride the Lightning”, a song Mustaine originally co-wrote during his time in Metallica.
Mustaine explained that including “Ride the Lightning” wasn’t about settling old scores — it was about paying respect and “closing the circle” on his career. He emphasized that this isn’t just a cover: “No. Because I wrote the song too.”
On what he thinks of his version, Mustaine told Kerrang! that the reaction has been positive among those who’ve heard it, calling it a “fitting homage.” He also revealed the track is faster than the original, with a fresh solo — and he hopes people see it not as a final dig, but a genuine tribute.
This final album and tour represent one of the last major acts of Mustaine’s storied career. Reflecting on his legacy, he said, “We started a musical style, we started a revolution, we changed the guitar world … we changed the world.” Fans are already bracing for what promises to be a farewell journey fueled by both nostalgia and respect — not only for Megadeth’s own legacy but for the roots that gave Mustaine his start.
