It’s official—after more than 40 years of thrash metal dominance, Megadeth has announced their final studio album and a global farewell tour. The news comes directly from frontman Dave Mustaine, who’s inviting fans to join him in celebration, not mourning, for the band’s last chapter.Mustaine’s statement was equal parts heartfelt and defiant. “Most of them don’t get to go out on their own terms on top… if there was ever a perfect time to tour the world, it’s now. This is also a perfect time for us to tell you that it’s our last studio album… Don’t be mad, don’t be sad, be happy for us all, come celebrate with me these next few years,” he told fans worldwide.The band revealed their plans through a dramatic countdown on their official website, culminating in a teaser video featuring their infamous mascot, Vic Rattlehead. In the clip, Vic proclaims, “Forty years of metal forged in steel ending in fire… meet me on the frontlines,” setting the tone for what promises to be an explosive send-off.Megadeth’s 17th studio album is expected in 2026, though details like its title and tracklist remain tightly under wraps. Fans can expect at least one advance single before the farewell tour kicks off, with Mustaine hinting that the new music will be a fitting capstone to the band’s legacy.Alongside the album news, the farewell tour will take Megadeth to stages across North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. This will be the final opportunity for fans to see Mustaine and his bandmates unleash their high-velocity setlist of classics, deep cuts, and brand-new material in one epic run.The current lineup—Dave Mustaine on vocals and guitar, James LoMenzo on bass, Dirk Verbeuren on drums, and Teemu Mäntysaari on lead guitar—has been widely praised for bringing a renewed energy to Megadeth’s live shows. This chemistry will be on full display for their last worldwide trek.But the music isn’t the only thing Megadeth has in store. Mustaine has also confirmed a memoir is on the way in 2026, promising behind-the-scenes stories, career reflections, and an honest look at the highs and lows of his life in metal.This final chapter is deeply personal for Mustaine, who co-founded Megadeth in 1983 after his exit from Metallica. Over the decades, the band has sold more than 50 million albums worldwide, earned multiple Grammy Awards, and influenced countless musicians with their lightning-fast riffs and politically charged lyrics.“Megadeth started a musical style, we started a revolution, we changed the guitar world and how it’s played, and we changed the world,” Mustaine said in his farewell announcement. It’s a statement that may sound bold, but one look at the band’s history proves it’s true.For fans, the farewell isn’t just about the music—it’s about community. Generations have grown up with Megadeth as the soundtrack to their lives, finding strength in the chaos and solidarity in the pit. This tour offers one last chance to share that bond in person.The farewell tour dates have yet to be revealed, but anticipation is already reaching a fever pitch. Mustaine encourages fans to sign up for the Cyber Army fan club to secure early access to tickets and exclusive tour updates.In the end, Megadeth’s goodbye is less a mournful bow than a victory lap. They’re not fading quietly—they’re going out at full volume. As Mustaine says, don’t be mad, don’t be sad. This is a celebration. Raise your horns one last time—the end is coming, and it’s going to be loud.
Megadeth Announce Final Album and Farewell Tour: ‘Don’t Be Mad, Don’t Be Sad, Come Celebrate With Me,’ Says Frontman Dave Mustaine…
