Chuck Behler

Charles Conrad 'Chuck' Behler

“Chuck”

Chuck Behler was Gar Samuelson's successor on drums in Megadeth and provided the rhythmic foundation during the intense late '80s period. Originally from Michigan (born in 1965), Behler was initially Gar Samuelson's drum tech during the 'Peace Sells...' tour. Mustaine noticed his skill during soundchecks and told him to stay close in case Gar didn't perform; when Gar was dismissed, Chuck Behler took his place in 1987. His performance was immortalized on the album 'So Far, So Good... So What!' (1988), where he showcased a powerful style, with fast fills and double bass drumming on tracks like '502' and 'Liar'. Though technically competent, Behler faced the tough task of filling Gar's shoes and dealing with Mustaine's increasing demands. The era was turbulent: the album was recorded under pressure and the 1988 world tour was plagued by excess. After the tour, Mustaine decided to dismiss both Jeff Young and Behler in early 1989, partly due to Chuck's struggle with addictions and some live mishaps. Ironically, his replacement was his own drum tech, Nick Menza, repeating the story of 'the tech takes over'. After Megadeth, Behler stayed away from high-profile stages. He returned to Detroit and for a time retired from professional music. Over the years, he resumed drumming locally, playing in cover bands and with Motor City Freaks. In 2023, he reappeared as a guest at a Kings of Thrash show, performing songs he recorded in 1988, to the delight of nostalgic fans. Chuck Behler may not have enjoyed the prolonged fame of other members, but his contribution is recorded on an iconic album and in the classic documentary film 'The Decline of Western Civilization Part II'. Megadeth fans remember him fondly, knowing that in a difficult moment he kept the drums going. Today, Behler remains modestly involved in music and often attends Megadeth concerts whenever the band plays nearby, showing that the spirit of 'so far, so good... so what!' still lives in him.