Lee Rausch

Lee Rausch

“Lee”

Lee Rausch was the first drummer to perform live and record material with Megadeth, even if unofficially. Originally from Ohio, Rausch moved to Los Angeles and joined Megadeth in late 1983 after Dijon Carruthers' departure. At just 19 years old, Lee brought a solid and direct drumming style, perfectly suited to the emerging thrash sound. He played drums on the 'Last Rites' demo recorded in early 1984, which includes early versions of 'Mechanix' and 'Skull Beneath The Skin', making it the band's first recorded material. He also took part in Megadeth's first five official concerts in the Los Angeles scene, where the band began to earn a reputation for speed and ferocity. Lee Rausch was appreciated for his humble attitude and steady work ethic, but by mid-1984 he decided to leave the group. Some sources cite personal reasons and fatigue with California life. After his departure, Mustaine recruited Gar Samuelson to take over drums and continue toward the debut album. Lee returned to his native Ohio, where he continued playing in smaller musical projects and stayed out of the spotlight. In recent years, old-school fans remembered him for his pioneering contribution. Sadly, in June 2023, Lee Rausch was reported to have passed away at age 58. His legacy in Megadeth remains part of the band's seed: he was the drummer who set the beat in the band's early days, immortalized in those raw demo recordings that showed the world the germ of what Megadeth would become.