Dave Mustaine Reveals His Five All-Time Favorite Rock and Metal Guitarists

Dave Mustaine, guitarist and founder of Megadeth, answered a series of questions about the musicians who have shaped his playing during a recent interview with Loudwire published on July 5, 2024. Mustaine listed five guitarists—Eddie Van Halen, Randy Rhoads, Tony Iommi, Dimebag Darrell and Yngwie Malmsteen—and explained the specific qualities that make each of them stand out. He emphasized that technical skill, melodic sense and stage presence were the criteria he used to rank them. "Eddie Van Hallen is a genius because he invented a whole new vocabulary for the instrument," Mustaine said. "His tapping, his whammy bar tricks, and his sense of rhythm changed the way I think about soloing." The Megadeth leader added that Van Halen’s 1978 debut album, *Van Halen*, remains a benchmark for guitarists worldwide. Mustaine also highlighted Randy Rhoads, noting that "Rhoads combined classical phrasing with metal aggression, especially on *Ozzy Osbourne’s* *Blizzard of Ozz* (1980)." He praised Tony Iommi for pioneering the heavy riff, stating, "Iommi’s down‑tuned power chords on *Black Sabbath* (1970) created the dark sound that defines metal." When discussing modern influences, Mustaine spoke about Dimebag Darrell, recalling their friendship and shared stage moments. "Dimebag’s tone on *Pantera’s* *Cowboys from Hell* (1990) was raw and ferocious, and his sense of humor made every show unforgettable," he recalled. Finally, Mustaine described Yngwie Malmsteen as “the epitome of technical virtuosity,” citing the 1984 album *Rising Force* as a masterclass in speed‑playing and neoclassical composition. The interview also touched on Mustaine’s own evolution as a guitarist. He admitted that studying these five icons helped him develop the signature sound heard on Megadeth’s *Rust in Peace* (1990) and later records. Mustaine noted that while he respects each guitarist’s legacy, he continues to seek new inspiration, stating, "The guitar is an endless journey; there’s always another player pushing the boundaries." Mustaine’s selections reflect a broader trend among metal musicians who cite classic rock pioneers alongside modern shredders as foundational influences. By naming both early innovators like Iommi and later virtuosos like Malmsteen, Mustaine underscores the genre’s diverse lineage. Fans can expect the full interview to be available on Loudwire’s website, offering deeper insight into how these five guitarists have impacted Megadeth’s songwriting and live performances. For followers of Megadeth, Mustaine’s list provides a roadmap to explore the roots of his style. The guitarist recommends listening to Van Halen’s “Eruption,” Rhoads’ “Crazy Train,” Iommi’s “Iron Man,” Dimebag’s “Cemetery Gates,” and Malmsteen’s “Far Beyond the Sun.” Each track exemplifies the element that Mustaine admires most—innovation, melody, heaviness, raw power, or technical precision—offering fans a curated guide to the guitar heritage that continues to shape modern metal.

Dave Mustaine with his guitar on stage