Extending Leave From Megadeth, Kiko Loureiro: This Decision Is Not Easy For Me

Kiko Loureiro (Instagram @kikoloureiro)

JAKARTA - Megadeth guitarist Kiko Loureiro announced his decision to "expand" the leave of Dave Mustaine's thrash metal band tour activities.

Kiko conveyed his future plan in a post on social media, Sunday, November 19.

"Dear Megadeth fans," said Kiko.

I want to share with you a decision that is not easy for me. In September, I had to leave the US tour for family reasons. Going forward, in 2024, we anticipate a denser Megadeth tour schedule. After thorough reflection and discussion with Dave Mustaine and Megadeth's management, we collectively agree that this is the right step to prolong my absence," continued the guitarist.

"I don't want to get in the way of the band's plans or the hard work of all the amazing people involved in this tour. My nine years with Megadeth have been an incredible journey, full of countless moments of'my pinch'."

"Unfortunately, the Grammy Award for Dystopia, Grammy nominations, and various awards for The Sick, The Dying, And The Dead are just a few of the interesting things. It's hard to reveal with the big words of this tour. I'm sure every heavy metal fan can appreciate how amazing it is to play and create music in a band that you listen to as you grow up, and share a stage with guitar legends like Dave Mustaine, along with phenomenal musicians like James LoMenzo and Dirk Verbeuren, not to mention our amazing crew."

"However, the most appreciated aspect of nine years is getting to know the extraordinary troops of loyal Megadeth fans around the world. Your dedication is inspiring, and I really admire and respect all of you."

"I love you so much see you guys again!"

Earlier in September, Kiko announced that he was absent from the Crush The World Megadeth tour due to family affairs.