Former Megadeth bassist David Ellefson recently revealed that he could have followed a career in country Music, a much more lucrative genre than rock. However, he says he always preferred to stay true to his rock roots, even if it meant giving up significant financial opportunities.
Rebel against country
During an interview with That Fuzzing Rock ShowEllefson explained that he grew up in a family where country music was omnipresent, but that led him to turn to rock as a sign of rebellion: “I’m not one to jump on the bandwagon… especially when it comes to country music. I know there’s a lot of money to be made there, but my goal in playing rock was to oppose country, because my parents listened to it.”
He also remembers a time when he was asked to play bass for country bands: “A neighbor in Jackson said to me, ‘You could be out there making $50 a night playing bass.’ And I said, ‘You know what? Let go. I prefer to play rock for free. I won’t play country.’”
For Ellefson, music has always been about passion and self-expression: “Music is what is in your heart. It’s your voice; you sing your song through your instrument. I’ve been lucky enough to follow this path and play rock music my whole life.”
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A new admiration for country
Despite his initial rejection, Ellefson developed a great admiration for country music over time, particularly as a composer and lyricist: “As much as I made fun of country before, now, as a songwriter, I have nothing but respect for this genre. They tell great stories with very few words.”
He cites artists like Garth Brooks and Alan Jackson, who impressed him with their ability to write songs rich in emotion and meaning with simple lyrics: “The lyrics… These songs are brilliant! They paint a complete picture using so few words. It’s truly remarkable.”
Staying true to your rock roots
Although he respects country music today, Ellefson remains a fervent defender of rock and its rebellious spirit (with Dieth, Kings Of Thrash and others). His career choice illustrates his conviction that music must above all be a passion and a means of expressing what we deeply feel.
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