Kiko Loureiro, former guitarist for MEGADETH, recently shared his perspective on SEPULTURA‘s farewell tour during an interview with France’s Loud TV. Reflecting on SEPULTURA’s 40-year legacy, Kiko highlighted the band’s decision as an opportunity for reinvention, echoing his own reasoning for stepping away from MEGADETH.
On SEPULTURA’s Farewell
Kiko described the farewell tour as a natural progression for SEPULTURA, explaining:
“It’s not that youth is dying; it’s more about reflecting on what the next phase of life can hold. They’ve achieved so much, and now they have the freedom to explore other paths. Maybe they’ll come back in a few years, but taking that break opens up possibilities — mentally and creatively.”
He likened the decision to other artists taking sabbaticals, noting how stepping away can offer clarity and a fresh perspective, citing examples like Miles Davis, who reinvented himself after a six-year hiatus, and soccer legend Pelé, who retired at his peak to leave an untarnished legacy.
Parallels to Leaving MEGADETH
Kiko candidly compared SEPULTURA’s farewell to his decision to leave MEGADETH after eight years of touring:
“I started reflecting — do I want to spend another 10 years touring and playing the same songs? Life offers the freedom to decide who you want to be and what’s next.”
Loureiro expressed no regrets about stepping away, noting that these decisions are challenging but liberating.
Family and Priorities
Kiko announced in late 2023 that he would extend his absence from MEGADETH to prioritize time with his children in Finland. This decision marked a turning point for both him and the band. MEGADETH frontman Dave Mustaine publicly supported Loureiro, describing their relationship as one of mutual respect and understanding. The transition introduced Finnish guitarist Teemu Mäntysaari, who officially joined the band during the “Crush The World” tour.
Kiko’s Legacy with MEGADETH
Joining in 2015, Loureiro brought his virtuosity to albums like Dystopia (2016), which won a Grammy, and The Sick, The Dying… And The Dead! (2022). Despite stepping back, his contributions remain a celebrated part of MEGADETH’s modern era.
Loureiro’s thoughts on SEPULTURA, combined with his own journey, underscore a shared ethos among legendary artists: knowing when to pause, evolve, or pivot is as crucial as the music itself.
