Guitarist who led Megadeth to Jeff Young meets ill fate – Guitar World
As Megadeth’s final studio album approaches, Dave Mustaine, the band’s leader, reflects on their tumultuous journey, particularly the unconventional method of finding their second lead guitarist following a strange request for guitar solos. Mustaine formed Megadeth after his controversial exit from Metallica, believing they stole his riffs. Collaborating with the talented Chris Poland on their first two albums, Mustaine had to let him go in 1987 due to his substance abuse issues and selling Mustaine’s gear.
The search for Poland’s replacement led them to Jeff Young, but the process was far from straightforward. A chance encounter at a country club led Mustaine to Jay Reynolds, a tall, Gibson Flying V-wielding guitarist influenced by Michael Schenker. Impressed by Reynolds’ presence, Mustaine approached him to join Megadeth. However, the situation took an unexpected turn during the recording of their third album, “So Far, So Good… So What?” when Mustaine asked Reynolds to perform his guitar solos.
To Mustaine’s surprise, Reynolds intended to call his guitar teacher to record the solos and then teach him how to play them. Despite the odd request, Mustaine agreed, and Jeff Young, the guitar teacher, arrived to handle the solos. Young’s arrival marked a shift in the band’s dynamics, bringing his unique style to the table, much like Poland had with his distinctive playing following a guitar injury.
With their latest lead guitarist, Teemu Mäntysaari, showcasing his exceptional skills on the new single, “Let There Be Shred,” Megadeth pays tribute to the electric guitar. The album is set to conclude with a cover of Metallica’s “Ride the Lightning,” a track for which Mustaine holds a co-writing credit. Mustaine has clarified his decision behind this surprising choice, indicating a closure to the longstanding rivalry between the two bands.
The journey to finding the right lead guitarist for Megadeth has been a rollercoaster ride, filled with unexpected twists and turns. From the departure of Chris Poland to the unconventional hiring of Jeff Young, the band’s evolution is a testament to their resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges. As the final album nears its release, Megadeth’s legacy continues to be shaped by the diverse talents and unique styles of its members. With Mustaine at the helm, the band’s future remains as unpredictable and exciting as their past.