Former Megadeth Drummer Nick Menza Passes Away

Blog author:  Alex Stojanovic

Wow, just WOW.  I was hoping that this was just a joke, but it isn't unfortunately.  It's been confirmed that former Megadeth drummer Nick Menza has passed away yesterday at the age of JUST 51, holy shit.  I am absolutely gutted right now. Absolutely horrible news to wake up to.  Apparently, he was playing on stage with his band Ohm at a venue called the Baked Potato in Studio City, California and by the third song into the set, he collapsed with a heart attack and died on his way to the hospital.  The venue even took to their Facebook page to post "RIP Nick Menza".  Dave Mustaine also took to his Twitter and posted:  "TELL ME THIS ISN'T TRUE! I awoke at 4 AM to hear Nick Menza passed away on 5/21 playing his drums w/Ohm at the Baked Potato.  #nickmenzarip".  Mustaine's son Justis also posted "Rest In Peace Nick Menza" on his personal Facebook page.

Being a drummer myself, Nick was a huge influence on me with the stuff he did on Rust In Peace, Countdown To Extinction, Youthanasia and Cryptic Writings.  His drumming on those records was one of the reasons why I fell in love with Megadeth in the first place.  He was one of the greatest and most underrated drummers in the world who had such a unique playing style and didn't get enough credit.

We send our heartfelt condolences to Nick's family, friends and fans all around the globe.  R.I.P Nick, you were an amazing talent and will be greatly missed.