Darryl Smyers of the Dallas Observer recently conducted an interview with Megadeth bassist David Ellefson.
Dallas Observer: Both you and [Megadeth mainman] Dave Mustaine are Christians. One wouldn’t think too many of your fans are living a Christian lifestyle.
Ellefson: They are probably a lot like me. I grew up a confirmed Lutheran, but when I didn’t have to go to church anymore, I didn’t go. I was into playing rock and roll, but I had a good upbringing that steered me in the right direction at the times when I needed to be redirected. Rock and roll is about rocking out against the system and rocking out against the things that have authority over you. And years ago, the church had a very authoritative position over me. It’s not so much like that anymore. A lot of corrupt people in the church got called out on it. It’s a different time now. Those same rules don’t apply today.
Dallas Observer: There are people, both back then and today, who don’t think the words Christian and metal can go together.
Ellefson: There are a lot of artists who are very open about their faith. This has happened over the last 10 years. Nearly everyone comes from some sort of faith background, even if you don’t have any faith at all. If someone wants to ask me about my personal life, I don’t mind talking to them, but I am there to play a Megadeth show. I am not out on a crusade.
Dallas Observer: Dave Mustaine has said there are certain songs that, as a Christian, he no longer feels are appropriate to play. Do you feel the same way?
Ellefson: Well, those are songs he wrote. Those lyrics were close to him and he decided he didn’t want to play those for those reasons. I definitely stand by him.
Read the entire interview from Dallas Observer.
‘Megadeth’s’ ‘David Ellefson’ Is Studying to Become a Pastor [Jan. 2012]
‘David Ellefson’: ‘Dave Mustaine’ And I Study Scripture Together [Feb. 2012]