David Ellefson

Metal Church / Kings of Thrash / David Ellefson
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David Ellefson

About

David Ellefson is a Grammy Award-winning bassist, songwriter, author, and recording artist whose distinctive playing has helped shape the sound of modern heavy metal for more than four decades. Best known as a longtime member of Megadeth, Ellefson’s hard-hitting, precise bass style can be heard throughout some of the most influential records in thrash metal history. His career with the band earned numerous gold and platinum records, extensive worldwide touring, and multiple Grammy nominations.

Today, Ellefson continues to perform and record across a wide range of projects. He joined legendary heavy metal band Metal Church in 2025 and appears on their 2026 album Dead to Rights. He also remains active with Kings of Thrash, Metal Allegiance, The Lucid, Ellefson-Soto, his solo work, and the Bass Warrior tour, which celebrates music spanning his more than 40-year career.

Beyond the stage, Ellefson has built a multifaceted career as a producer, author, educator, entrepreneur, and music industry professional. Whether performing classic material or creating new music, his aggressive attack, articulate tone, and unmistakable approach to the bass continue to make him one of heavy metal’s most recognized and influential bassists.

Go-To Strings

David Ellefson Signature 4-String Bass Strings – 45–105 (DE45105L Medium)

David Ellefson Signature 4-String Bass Strings – 45–105 (DE45105L Medium)

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David Ellefson Signature 4-String Bass Strings – 45–105 Extra Long (DE45105XL Medium)

David Ellefson Signature 4-String Bass Strings – 45–105 Extra Long (DE45105XL Medium)

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David Ellefson Signature 5-String Bass Strings – 45–128 (DE545128L Medium)

David Ellefson Signature 5-String Bass Strings – 45–128 (DE545128L Medium)

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David Ellefson Signature 5-String Bass Strings – 45–128 Extra Long (DE545128XL Medium)

David Ellefson Signature 5-String Bass Strings – 45–128 Extra Long (DE545128XL Medium)

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David Ellefson Signature Fusion Wound 4-String Bass Strings – 45–105 (DRB45105L Medium)

David Ellefson Signature Fusion Wound 4-String Bass Strings – 45–105 (DRB45105L Medium)

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David Ellefson Signature Fusion Wound 5-String Bass Strings – 45–125 (DRB545125L Medium)

David Ellefson Signature Fusion Wound 5-String Bass Strings – 45–125 (DRB545125L Medium)

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Strings Built For Players

Made in Akron, Ohio for musicians who need tone, feel, and tuning stability they can count on.

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