MEGADETH Covers METALLICA’s Iconic ‘Ride The Lightning’
MEGADETH has released a cover of METALLICA’s iconic title track “Ride The Lightning,” a song co-written by Dave Mustaine before his departure from METALLICA in 1983. This track is featured on MEGADETH’s latest album, titled simply “Megadeth,” which launched on January 23, 2025, under Mustaine’s Tradecraft label in collaboration with Frontiers Music’s BLKIIBLK imprint.
Background of “Ride The Lightning”
Originally appearing on METALLICA’s 1984 album of the same name, “Ride The Lightning” showcases contributions from Mustaine alongside METALLICA members James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, and Cliff Burton. In a recent interview with MariskalRockTV, Mustaine discussed the significance of this song in his guitar playing style, highlighting techniques he refers to as “spider chords” and “grunting.” He explained that his affinity for these techniques made him want to reinterpret the track.
Recording and Collaboration Process
During the recording of MEGADETH’s version, Mustaine indicated a collaborative effort on the guitar solo with current MEGADETH guitarist Teemu Mäntysaari. The duo shared the solo parts, blending their unique styles—a decision stemming from Mustaine’s recollections of the original song’s arrangement.
Reflecting on his relationship with METALLICA, Mustaine stated that including “Ride The Lightning” served to “close the circle” and pay homage to his former bandmates. He emphasized his respect for Hetfield and Ulrich, recognizing their contributions during their time together and expressing a desire to honor that musical legacy.
Meaning and Influence of the Cover
- Musical Pay Tribute: Mustaine aimed to show respect for his past and the shared songwriting experience.
- Evolution of the Song: The MEGADETH version retains integrity while modernizing certain elements, resulting in a faster tempo and enhanced sections.
- Final Album Context: “Megadeth” serves as a crucial entry in MEGADETH’s discography, particularly as it includes a nostalgic connection to Mustaine’s history.
Track Listing for “Megadeth”
| Track Number | Title |
|---|---|
| 01 | Tipping Point |
| 02 | I Don’t Care |
| 03 | Hey, God? |
| 04 | Let There Be Shred |
| 05 | Puppet Parade |
| 06 | Another Bad Day |
| 07 | Made To Kill |
| 08 | Obey The Call |
| 09 | I Am War |
| 10 | The Last Note |
| 11 | Ride The Lightning (Bonus Track) |
Conclusion
MEGADETH’s cover of “Ride The Lightning” not only revives a classic but is also a personal statement from Mustaine regarding his evolving relationship with METALLICA’s legacy. As the band embarks on this new chapter with “Megadeth,” the inclusion of this track offers a profound nod to its rich history and the connection between these two pioneering bands in the heavy metal genre.
