In the world of thrash metal, the rivalry between Metallica and Megadeth is legendary – a battle of titans that has raged for decades. But could one simple sentence from Slayer's Kerry King cut through all the noise and declare a definitive winner? "Metallica has a singer. Sorry, Dave!" That's what King quipped, reigniting the eternal debate with a brutally honest jab. But here's where it gets controversial...
During an interview on the YouTube show "Reigning TV" earlier this month, the iconic guitarist Kerry King, known for his uncompromising style, was asked the inevitable question: James Hetfield or Dave Mustaine? Without hesitation, King sided with Metallica's frontman. "James Hetfield. Sorry Dave, I know I played in your band, but I’m going with James." He didn't stop there. When pressed on the ultimate Metallica vs. Megadeth showdown, King doubled down: "Metallica. I’m gonna be brutally honest, Metallica has a singer. Sorry, Dave!"
But what's the backstory to this seemingly simple diss? It's rooted in the complex history of these two metal giants. Dave Mustaine, after being a member of Metallica from 1981 to 1983, formed Megadeth. In 1984, he even invited Kerry King to join his new project. King played a few shows with Megadeth, but ultimately declined, choosing to stick with Slayer, whose debut album, 'Show No Mercy,' had dropped the year before. Imagine how different the metal landscape might be if King had joined Megadeth permanently!
King's comments, while seemingly off-the-cuff, reflect a long-standing dynamic. Earlier this year, King described Mustaine as someone who "can’t help but stick his foot in his mouth,” while also clarifying that he’ll always have time for him. It's a complex relationship, to say the least. And this is the part most people miss... it highlights not just a musical rivalry, but also a personal one.
Adding fuel to the fire, Megadeth is set to release a self-titled final studio album next year, which will include a cover of Metallica’s 'Ride the Lightning.' Mustaine, who co-wrote the song during his Metallica days, claims their version will be more faithful to the original composition than Metallica’s own rendition. It's a bold claim, suggesting that Megadeth can reclaim a piece of their history and perhaps even "out-Metallica" Metallica on one of their own tracks.
Furthermore, the pot was stirred in May of this year when Mustaine accused Metallica of stealing the 'Enter Sandman' riff from a 1989 track by crossover thrash group Excel. Talk about throwing down the gauntlet! These accusations, whether valid or not, keep the rivalry alive and kicking, ensuring that the Metallica vs. Megadeth debate will continue to rage on for years to come.
Meanwhile, outside the studio and away from the feuding, King recently made an appearance at WrestleMania, performing with pro wrestler Damian Priest. A surprising crossover, but a clear sign that King, even after Slayer's retirement, remains a force in the world of entertainment.
So, what do you think? Does King's comment about Metallica having a singer hold water? Is it a fair assessment of the two bands' strengths? And more importantly, which band do you prefer, and why? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Who do you think is winning the war of words, and does it even matter when the music is so powerful?
