Megadeth’s Nick Menza Dead at 51
The former drummer of the American thrash metal pioneers reportedly suffered heart failure after a gig
Former Megadeth drummer Nick Menza. Photo: Alex Solca/Menzajamz.com
Megadeth’s former drummer Nick Menza has reportedly passed away after a heart failure while performing with his instrumental rock band OHM in Studio City, California yesterday. The first to announce Menza’s death was Justis Mustaine, son of Megadeth frontman and founding member Dave Mustaine. More details are yet to be confirmed.
Menza was the juggernaut force behind the kit for seminal Megadeth albums between 1989 and 1998 alongside guitarist Marty Friedman and bassist David Ellefson, along with Mustaine. His best work included Rust In Peace, Youthanasia and Countdown to Extinction. Menza suffered heart failure while he was performing with OHM, which also features former Megadeth guitarist Chris Poland at the Baked Potato club in LA. The venue has also posted “RIP Nick Menza” on their Facebook page.
Dave Mustaine also took to social media about Menza’s death.
TELL ME THIS ISN’T TRUE! I woke at 4 AM to hear Nick Menza passed away on 5/21 playing his drums w/Ohm at the Baked Potato. #nickmenzarip
”” Dave Mustaine (@DaveMustaine) May 22, 2016
