Bobby Gustafson: Why He Turned Down Megadeth

Early Career & Overkill's Rise

• 🚀 Bobby Gustafson joined Overkill at just 17, starting as a cover band before transitioning to originals.
• 💡 After an initial rejection, Johnny Z of Megaforce Records signed Overkill in late 1984, impressed by their tighter live performances.
• 📌 The band's contract with Megaforce was significantly better than offers from other labels like Combat or Metal Blade.

Turning Down Megadeth

• ⚡ During the Peace Sells tour with Megadeth, a tense incident occurred where Gar Samuelson threw a drumstick at Dave Mustaine.
• 💬 Dave Mustaine later asked Bobby Gustafson to join Megadeth, citing issues with his current band members.
• ✅ Bobby ultimately declined the offer to remain with Overkill, as their second album, "Taking Over," had just been released.

Modern Music Industry Challenges

• 📈 The current music market is flooded due to the ease of self-production, making it harder for new bands to stand out.
• 💰 Bands can no longer rely on record sales for income, instead depending on touring and merchandise.
• 🤝 Many musicians, like Bobby, are involved in multiple bands to sustain themselves financially.

Diverse Projects & Collaborations

• ⚙️ Bobby joined the industrial band Skrew after a previous project fell through, recording an album and touring with Creator.
• ⚠️ He was considered for Metallica after James Hetfield's injury but a flight delay and insufficient preparation prevented him from joining.
• 🎤 Bobby also played with Vio-lence, noting their early post-COVID shows, including a "super spreader" event.

Songwriting & Performance Insights

• 🧠 Bobby described his songwriting process as jotting down ideas and fitting them to song titles or melodies.
• 🎸 He highlighted Dave Mustaine's unique ability to sing and play completely opposite guitar parts simultaneously.
• 🎤 Overkill's single-guitarist setup allowed Blitz more freedom in his vocal delivery.