Jimmy DeGrasso

James DeGrasso

“Jimmy”

Jimmy DeGrasso is an American drummer with a prolific career, whose time in Megadeth meant taking on the tough task of succeeding Nick Menza at the turn of the millennium. Born in 1963, DeGrasso was already a veteran when he joined Megadeth: he had recorded and toured with hard rock band Y&T in the '80s, and in the '90s established himself as an 'all-terrain' drummer, playing with Suicidal Tendencies and accompanying Alice Cooper on several world tours. Mustaine knew him from the scene and offered him the spot in 1998 when Menza left. DeGrasso debuted on the Cryptic Writings tour replacing Nick, and soon entered the studio for Risk (1999). On this album, Jimmy showed his versatility by adapting to a more rhythmic rock style and less thrash: for example, on 'Breadline' he uses simple but effective grooves, and on 'Prince of Darkness' adds creative percussive touches. With his rock background, he brought immediate solidity and professionalism live—Mustaine noted that Jimmy was 'the only member who was never fired or quit, but left because the band broke up' in 2002. During the Risk Tour, DeGrasso surprised fans by playing electronic parts with pads, showing his modern side. On The World Needs a Hero (2001), Megadeth returned to a heavier sound and Jimmy shone on tracks like 'Dread and the Fugitive Mind' with powerful rolls. He stayed until the 2002 breakup, being—curiously—the only Megadeth member who didn't 'leave' the band by choice but due to the forced hiatus after Mustaine's injury. After Megadeth, DeGrasso continued his busy career: he played with Mustaine in the temporary project MD.45 (The Craving re-release tour in 2004), returned as Alice Cooper's drummer for several seasons, and joined Black Star Riders (formed by ex-Thin Lizzy members), recording with them. He also joined F5—David Ellefson's band in 2005—strengthening his connection with former colleagues. In recent years, he has been a guest musician in multiple projects (his resume includes collaborations with Ozzy Osbourne, Whitford/St. Holmes, etc.). Jimmy DeGrasso is respected for his solid playing and ability to perform with virtually anyone. In the memory of Megadeth fans, he remains the reliable drummer who kept the beat during the transition to the new millennium, participating in the band's original farewell with Rude Awakening. To this day he remains active, giving clinics and touring, with the distinction of having contributed his talent to an impressive cast of rock and metal legends.