Kiko Loureiro, former guitarist of Megadeth, recently made headlines by parting ways with items tied to his tenure in the legendary metal band. From guitars and amplifiers to memorabilia, Loureiro’s decision seems to signal the beginning of a new chapter. Adding to the buzz, he announced plans for a joint tour with fellow ex-Megadeth guitarist Marty Friedman.
Beyond these developments, Loureiro shared an insightful take on the art of songwriting: “It’s much easier to write a 10-minute song with 20 parts than to create a great pop song.”
In an interview with Christine Greyson, Loureiro, also renowned for his work with Angra, delved into whether songwriting should be influenced by commercial considerations. He explained:
“I don’t focus on whether a song will work commercially, though it’s natural for some composers to think that way. Take Bruno Mars, for instance. He’s a phenomenal songwriter and highly commercial. He grew up inspired by icons like Michael Jackson, which shaped his taste and understanding of beauty in music.”
Loureiro dismissed the notion that simplicity equates to a lack of talent, adding:
“Being direct and simple doesn’t mean lacking skill—it’s the opposite. Crafting a great pop song is far harder than creating a 10-minute epic. With a long song, you can just keep adding layers, like throwing random vegetables into a pasta dish. But simplicity requires genius.”
While he prioritizes artistic freedom over market trends, Loureiro noted that enduring music often bridges complexity and accessibility:
“True artists who stand the test of time have an unparalleled ability to connect deeply with people. Their work might be musically intricate, yet it resonates naturally. Think of The Beatles, Stevie Wonder, or Elton John. Even in classical music, the greats layered depth and sophistication into accessible compositions. That’s the balance I strive for.”
Loureiro also touched on the intersection of art and commerce with his signature humor:
“It’s not about capitalism or record labels for me. Sure, we upload music to Spotify so shareholders can afford another yacht. But I’m happy with my guitars. I live in Finland, where the sea is frozen half the year. Who needs a yacht?”
His most recent solo album, ‘Theory of Mind’, was released in November, showcasing his continued evolution as an artist. Fans are eager to see what this next phase holds for the virtuosic guitarist.
