Rock & Metal

Kiko Loureiro On Why He Left Megadeth: ‘Do I Want Another Decade Of This? No’

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Former Megadeth guitarist Kiko Loureiro recently shed light on his departure from the legendary thrash metal band during an interview with Loud TV, emphasizing personal growth, reflection, and a desire for freedom as key factors in his decision.

Loureiro explained, “Let’s say if you’re 50 years old we going to live until 100. It’s like, ‘What can I do for the next half of my life?’ I made it the whole thing in Sepultura. It’s amazing but what can I do for my future? So it kind of connects with my decision to leave Megadeth.” Reflecting on his time with the band, he shared, “I did eight years nine years of Megadeth. Touring was amazing, great band great guys, and then you have some situations in life where you start reflecting. ‘Do I want to be another 10 years touring half of the year playing those songs?’”

The guitarist said he wanted to leave while at his best. “It’s good to stop when you’re at your best. So that’s the last image—the people don’t see you going down or doing mistakes. But it’s hard to do that because if you’re at your peak, you might think, ‘Oh, this is going to be for another five years, another 10 years.’ But it’s never the case. Sometimes it’s good to give a break.”

In another interview with Confere Rock, Loureiro elaborated on the importance of personal freedom in his decision. “After more than eight years with Megadeth, I felt it was important to have that freedom. And now, due to circumstances in my life, I have taken the liberty of choosing not to be in Megadeth. Because it’s my option. Freedom is having the choice between two viable options; that is freedom.” He also highlighted his desire to prioritize his family.

Loureiro left Megadeth in late 2023, and the band soon announced Finnish guitarist Teemu Mäntysaari as his replacement. Mäntysaari made his live debut with the band on September 6, 2023, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Fans have since praised Mäntysaari’s ability to carry on the band’s iconic sound while Loureiro embarks on a new chapter in his life.

I'm Emma. I Love rock music, doing guitar reviews, and making food. I love writing works because it is the best way to provide information to people.

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