Megadeth founder Dave Mustaine has announced the release of his new memoir, In My Darkest Hour, set for publication on September 8, 2026 via Da Capo. The book offers a deeply personal account of Mustaine’s battle with cancer and the challenges that reshaped both his life and career.
Chronicling his journey through diagnosis, treatment and recovery, the memoir reveals how he continued to create music while facing one of the most difficult periods of his life.
Mustaine reflects on themes of survival, family, faith and creativity, detailing how confronting mortality changed his perspective both as a musician and as a person. The memoir also explores his long career in Heavy Metal, including his legacy with Megadeth and his influence on the genre.
“One of the most harrowing experiences of my adult life has been my seven-year journey through cancer treatment and onward into remission,” Dave Mustaine says. “This story is considerably more than just go to the doctor, get diagnosed, get treatment, and hopefully live happily ever after.
“This was a journey of me saving myself, staying alive, keeping my family together, and continuing to make music through it all.”
In My Darkest Hour presents a raw and honest portrait of one of Heavy Metal’s most influential figures, offering insight not only for fans but for anyone facing adversity.
“In My Darkest Hour is Dave Mustaine at his most revealing, vulnerable, and true,” Ben Schafer, Executive Editor, Da Capo, said. “With lacerating honesty and soulful reflection, he speaks to the universal human experience of facing serious illness and how it changes a person, their family and friends, and one’s relationship with creativity.
“Da Capo is proud to publish Dave Mustaine’s most unblinking memoir to date, one that isn’t only for Megadeth fans.”
The release follows a period of major success for Megadeth, including chart-topping albums and a global farewell tour, further cementing Mustaine’s status as a defining force in Heavy Metal.
