in a recent interview, SLAYER guitarist Kerry King reflected on his tumultuous relationship with MEGADETH frontman dave Mustaine, highlighting the ongoing tension between the two metal icons. Despite their history of public feuds, King acknowledged Mustaine’s undeniable talent as a guitarist, calling him “a f**king awesome guitar player.” This candid admission comes amidst a backdrop of past criticisms, where King has not shied away from expressing his disdain for Mustaine’s comments and actions over the years. As the metal community continues to watch this rivalry unfold, King’s mixed sentiments reveal a complex dynamic that blends admiration with rivalry, keeping fans engaged in the narrative of these legendary musicians. For more insights, check out the full interview in Metal Hammer [1].
Q&A with Kerry King: Navigating Rivalry and Respect with Dave Mustaine
Editor: In a recent interview, you opened up about your relationship with Dave Mustaine. It’s known that you two have had a tumultuous history. Can you break down what your current feelings towards him are?
Kerry King: absolutely. it’s been a complicated relationship over the years. There have definitely been moments where I’ve expressed my disdain for some of his comments and actions. But at the same time, I can’t ignore the fact that he’s an incredible musician.I recently described him as “a fking awesome guitar player.” that’s a testament to his talent, despite the rivalry.
Editor: That’s an captivating juxtaposition of feelings. You admire his guitar skills, but there’s a history of tension. How do you think this rivalry affects the metal community?
Kerry King: It keeps the narrative alive, doesn’t it? The back-and-forth between us keeps fans engaged, and it adds a layer of drama to the metal scene. It’s like a soap opera for metalheads.Both of us have our strong opinions, and when you put two personalities like ours together, sparks are bound to fly.But ultimately, fans love the music more than the feud. They appreciate both Slayer and Megadeth, and that unity is what matters most.
Editor: It truly seems like even with the rivalry, there is a level of respect.How have these dynamics influenced your own music and creativity?
Kerry King: Respect in the metal community is crucial. While I may have my critiques of Dave’s words or some decisions he’s made, his work has pushed me to step up my game as well. Rivalries in music can drive artists to innovate and elevate their craft. You want to be seen as a formidable force, and seeing what others are doing—even if it’s in the context of competition—can motivate you to evolve.
Editor: In light of this ongoing rivalry, what advice would you give to budding musicians in terms of handling competition and professional relationships?
Kerry King: Keep your focus on your craft. Competition can be healthy when managed correctly. It’s all about respect for your peers and keeping your eyes on your own path. Collaboration is also valuable. There’s enough room in the industry for everyone to flourish, and sometimes working together can lead to unexpected greatness.Just remember to treat your peers with respect and let the music speak for itself.
Editor: As fans continue to follow your dynamic, what do you hope they take away from your relationship with Mustaine?
Kerry King:** I hope they see the complexity of it all. It’s not just hatred or rivalry; there’s a mix of admiration and competition. Recognizing the humanity behind the music can deepen their appreciation for both Slayer and Megadeth. fans should celebrate the artistry, no matter the drama surrounding it.
For more details and insights from Kerry King himself, check out the full interview in metal Hammer here [1].