Glen Drover Reveals 3 Guitarists He Recommended to Replace Him in Megadeth

The former Megadeth guitarist discusses his time with the band and the musicians he suggested to fill his role.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 4:12pm

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An abstract close-up image of a heavily worn and distressed electric guitar neck and fretboard, with dramatic lighting creating a high-contrast, high-fashion aesthetic that captures the tension and texture of the music industry.Drover's departure from Megadeth exposed the challenges of maintaining creative harmony within a successful metal band.Denver Today

In a recent interview, Canadian guitarist Glen Drover, who played for Megadeth from 2004 to 2008, revealed details about his departure from the band and the three guitarists he recommended as potential replacements: Jeff Loomis, Jeff Waters, and Chris Broderick. Drover cited family life and personal issues as factors in his decision to leave, and he discussed the challenges of quickly learning new songs and the changing dynamics within the band towards the end of his tenure.

Why it matters

Drover's insights provide a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of Megadeth and the process of finding a new guitarist. His recommendations of Loomis, Waters, and Broderick, with Broderick ultimately joining the band, offer a glimpse into the music industry's talent pool and the considerations that go into replacing a key member of a successful metal act.

The details

Drover joined Megadeth in 2004, along with his drummer brother Shawn, after being approached by Dave Mustaine, the band's frontman, who was planning a farewell tour. Drover accepted the offer, and within days, he was part of the band. The brothers quickly adapted, with Shawn mastering 18 songs in just six days. Drover reflected on the positive memories from the first two years, but acknowledged that things changed towards the end, and he felt disillusioned and irritated with certain aspects of the band. Drover's decision to leave was influenced by a desire for a more positive and fun environment.

  • Drover joined Megadeth in 2004.
  • Drover left Megadeth in 2008.

The players

Glen Drover

A Canadian guitarist who played for Megadeth from 2004 to 2008.

Shawn Drover

Glen Drover's drummer brother, who also joined Megadeth with him.

Dave Mustaine

The frontman of Megadeth, who reached out to Glen Drover to join the band.

Jeff Loomis

A guitarist from Nevermore and Arch Enemy, who was recommended by Drover as a potential replacement.

Jeff Waters

A guitarist from Annihilator, who was recommended by Drover as a potential replacement.

Chris Broderick

A guitarist from Jag Panzer, Nevermore, and In Flames, who was recommended by Drover and ultimately joined Megadeth.

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What they’re saying

“While family life played a role, there were other personal issues that led to my departure.”

— Glen Drover, Former Megadeth Guitarist

“Shawn managed to master 18 songs in just six days, which was an impressive feat made possible by our strong chemistry and determination.”

— Glen Drover, Former Megadeth Guitarist

What’s next

Drover is currently involved in the Withering Scorn project, which features his brother Shawn, Joe DiBiase from Fates Warning, and Henning Basse, a German singer. The project's debut album, 'Prophets Of Demise', was released in July 2023, and a follow-up, 'Sanctum Of The Depraved', is expected later this year.

The takeaway

Drover's insights into his time with Megadeth and the recommendations he made for his replacement provide a unique perspective on the inner workings of a successful metal band and the challenges of maintaining a positive creative environment within the music industry.