Megadeth is ending its studio career with a milestone decades in the making. The Grammy Award-winning metal icons’ self-titled final studio album (reviewed here) debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 last week, marking the band’s first U.S. chart-topper and their ninth Top 10 album overall.
The release also claimed No. 1 spots in Australia and Austria, alongside strong showings worldwide, including Top 5 debuts across Europe and New Zealand. Additional international chart positions were still being compiled at press time.
“After 40 years of delivering Megadeth music, playing shows around the world, I have nothing but gratitude at this moment. Finding out that our last Megadeth record is also our first No. 1 only further validates my will to go out on top,” says Dave Mustaine, vocalist, guitarist, songwriter, and producer. “Thank you to my family, Teemu Mantasaari, James LoMenzo, Dirk Verbueren, Chris Rakestraw, and all our fans for making this possible. Without you, Megadeth would not be as successful as we are. I’d also like to thank the people behind the scenes, our management, Danny Nozell, Justis Mustaine, and Steve Ross at CTK, and our label BLKIIBLK/Tradecraft.”
Bandmates echoed the celebration, with Teemu Mäntysaari calling the achievement “absolutely amazing news,” and James LoMenzo adding, “we’re over the moon!” Drummer Dirk Verbeuren described the moment as “unbelievable,” thanking fans for making it possible.
Released via Mustaine’s Tradecraft imprint in partnership with Frontiers Label Group’s BLKIIBLK label, the album follows a run of singles including “Puppet Parade” and “Tipping Point.” Megadeth will carry the momentum into their farewell tour, launching Feb. 15 in Canada and concluding March 6 in Quebec City.
