In a new The Right to Rock podcast, hosts Genghis and Ragman sat down with Megadeth bassist and Jackson signature artist David Ellefson to discuss a bevy of topics, including what it’s like to start working on a new Megadeth album, tips for beginning musicians, and his unique, genre-free record label EMP.
Megadeth’s lineup now includes Kiko Loureiro on guitar and Dirk Verbeuren on drums and Ellefson is excited to start working on a new project with the latest additions.
“It’s fun to be able to now start thinking about writing some music, and especially writing together with this lineup in mind,” he said during the podcast. “Songs aren’t always written collaboratively, together, with the four of us, but when they’re written, it’s nice to know, like, ‘Hey, we’re writing it with this lineup in mind.’ And what Dirk can do, what Kiko can do and what I can do, and putting it together with that in mind.”
The bassist also had some sage advice for would-be artists who are looking to grow their skills.
“Play as much music as you can, and learn from every genre,” says Ellefson. “Study with as many people. Practice with as many people. Take lessons with as many people. And then when you move to that next phase, when you’re ready to start performing with other people, in groups, in bands, in ensembles, then it’s like, enjoy the experience.”
And who knows? These artists could just wind up landing a deal some day with EMP, Ellefson’s independent label that services a wide range of genres.
“I wanted it to be broader than rock, metal, or any one genre,” he mentions. “It’s kind of altruistic for me. You know? It’s sort of like, ‘hey, I’ve been blessed with an amazing opportunity with distribution and promotional opportunities — I can offer my friends as a way for them to put their new records out.’”
Listen to the full podcast by CLICKING HERE.
Learn more about David Ellefson and his gear, including his USA Signature David Ellefson Concert™ Bass CB V, by checking out his Artist Page.