MARTY FRIEDMAN - Guitars, Producer

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Marty Friedman, the wizard of shred, is best known for his blazing guitar work with Megadeth during their golden era. Born in 1962, this Washington D.C. native fused metal with exotic scales and melodies that made jaws drop worldwide. From the iconic "Rust in Peace" to his adventurous solo career in Japan, Friedman's style is both technical and emotional—like a samurai with a Strat. Whether riffing thrash or jamming J-pop, he's proof that guitar gods come in many forms—and sometimes, they speak fluent Japanese too.

Marty Friedman – Shredder, Songwriter, Sonic Explorer

From Megadeth mayhem to Japanese pop wizardry – the wild ride of a guitar virtuoso

Marty Friedman is a renowned musician and music producer known for his exceptional skills as a guitarist. Born on 8 December 1962, in Washington D.C., United States, Friedman's musical journey has taken him to great heights and established him as a prominent figure in the world of heavy metal and rock music.

Friedman's interest in music began at a young age when he started playing guitar. Influenced by guitar legends such as Eddie Van Halen, Jimi Hendrix, and Yngwie Malmsteen, he dedicated himself to mastering the instrument. His talent quickly became evident, and he began performing with local bands in the Washington D.C. area.

In 1988, Friedman's career took a significant turn when he joined the American thrash metal band Megadeth . His unique playing style, characterized by intricate solos, melodic sensibility, and Eastern music influences, brought a fresh and dynamic sound to the band's music. Friedman's contributions can be heard on several iconic albums, including "Rust in Peace" (1990) and "Countdown to Extinction" (1992), both of which received critical acclaim and commercial success.

During his tenure with Megadeth, Friedman's reputation as a guitar virtuoso grew exponentially. His remarkable technical abilities and innovative approach to playing guitar earned him recognition and praise from both fans and fellow musicians alike. He became known for his seamless blending of various musical styles, incorporating elements of classical, jazz, and world music into his playing.

In 2000, after a decade with Megadeth, Friedman decided to pursue a solo career and moved to Japan, where he had developed a strong fan base. He embraced the Japanese music scene, collaborating with local musicians and exploring new musical territories. His solo albums, such as "Introduction" (1994), "True Obsessions" (1996), and "Loudspeaker" (2006), showcased his diverse musical influences and demonstrated his versatility as an artist.

Apart from his successful solo career, Friedman has also been involved in various other projects. He has released collaborative albums with notable Japanese musicians, including "Tokyo Jukebox" (2009) and "Inferno" (2014). These albums further exemplify his ability to bridge cultural gaps and fuse different musical traditions into a cohesive and captivating sound.

In addition to his work as a musician, Friedman has also established himself as a respected music producer. He has produced albums for numerous artists, both in Japan and internationally, lending his expertise to enhance their sound and bring out the best in their music.

Throughout his career, Marty Friedman has continued to push the boundaries of guitar playing and music in general. He has left an indelible mark on the heavy metal and rock genres, inspiring countless aspiring musicians with his technical prowess, innovative spirit, and adventurous musicality.

Index of MEGADETH Vinyl Album Discography and Album Cover Gallery

MEGADETH - Anarchy in the UK Laser Etched Vinyl
MEGADETH - Anarchy in the UK  album front cover vinyl record

"Anarchy in the U.K." is originally a song by the English punk rock band "The Sex Pistols" . It was released as the band's debut single on 26 November 1976 and was featured on their only album, Never Mind the Bollocks, This is Megadeth's cover of it, originally released on the album: "So far, so good, so what?"

Anarchy in the UK 12" Laser Etched Vinyl LP
MEGADETH - Countdown to Extinction
MEGADETH - Countdown to Extinction album front cover vinyl record

Countdown to Extinction was a critical and commercial success, reaching number two on the Billboard 200 chart in the United States and selling over 10 million copies worldwide. The album was certified double platinum

Countdown to Extinction 12" Vinyl LP
MEGADETH - Death in the Fire
MEGADETH - Death in the Fire album front cover vinyl record

"Death in the Fire" 180g White Label Transparent Vinyl 12" Vinyl LP Album offers a thrilling glimpse into the raw intensity of Megadeth's live performances during their early years. While an unofficial release, this limited edition LP

Death in the Fire 12" Transparent Vinyl LP <
MEGADETH - Killing is My Business and Business is Good
MEGADETH - Killing is my Business and Business is Good  album front cover vinyl record

This is the Picture Disc version "Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good!" the debut album by American thrash metal band Megadeth. It was originally released in 1985 on Combat Records.

Killing is my Business and Business is Good 12" Vinyl Picture Disc
MEGADETH - Killing is My Business and Business is Good (Canada & Holland)
MEGADETH - Killing is my Business and Business is Good (Canada & Holland)  album front cover vinyl record

"Killing Is My Business... and Business Is Good!" is the debut album by American thrash metal band Megadeth. It was originally released in 1985 on Combat Records. Mustaine wanted a picture of Megadeth mascot Vic Rattlehead

- Killing is my Business and Business is Good (1985, Canada) - Killing is my Business and Business is Good (1985, Holland)
MEGADETH - Mary Jane
MEGADETH - Mary Jane
MEGADETH - Mary Jane album front cover vinyl record

"Mary Jane" USA Release is an iconic musical piece that showcases the talent and creativity of the American thrash metal band, Megadeth. Released in 1988, this maxi-single offers a unique perspective on the concept of "Mary Jane"

Mary Jane 12" Vinyl Maxi Single
MEGADETH - Mary Jane b/w Hook in Mouth
MEGADETH - Mary Jane b/w Hook in Mouth  album front cover vinyl record

Megadeth's "Mary Jane" / "Hook in Mouth" picture disc is a fascinating slice of thrash metal history. While often sought for its collectible artwork, the songs themselves pack a powerful thematic punch.

Mary Jane b/w Hook in Mouth 7" Picture Disc
MEGADETH - No More Mr. Nice Guy (European and USA Releases) 12" Vinyl LP
MEGADETH - No More Mr Nice Guy (European and USA Releases)  album front cover vinyl record

"No More Mr. Nice Guy" was originally a song by Alice Cooper, released in 1973. It became a popular hit and was covered by various artists over the years. In 1989, Megadeth decided to cover the song and release it as a single.

- No More Mr Nice Guy (1989, EEC Europe) - No More Mr Nice Guy (1989, USA)
MEGADETH - Peace Sells But Who's Buying (International Releases)
MEGADETH - Peace Sells But Who's Buying (International Releases)  album front cover vinyl record

Formed in 1983 by former Metallica guitarist Dave Mustaine, Megadeth quickly gained recognition for aggressive sound, complex guitar work, and conscious lyrics. "Peace Sells... But Who's Buying?" became their second studio album

- Peace Sells But Who's Buying (1986, Canada) - Peace Sells But Who's Buying (1986, Germany) - Peace Sells But Who's Buying (1986, USA)
MEGADETH - So Far So Good So What (International Releases)
MEGADETH - So Far So Good So What (International Releases) album front cover vinyl record

Megadeth's "So Far, So Good, So What" 12" vinyl LP album was released on 19 January 1988, on Combat Records. The Canadian release of the album features a slightly different track listing than the US version

- So Far So Good So What (1988, Canada) - So Far So Good So What (1988, Germany) - So Far So Good So What (1988, USA)