Gar Samuelson

Infobox musical artist
Name = Gar Samuelson


Landscape =
Background = non_vocal_instrumentalist
Birth_name = Gary C. Samuelson"'
Alias =
Born = birth date|1958|2|18|
Origin = Dunkirk, New York, U.S.
Died = death date and age|1999|7|22|1958|2|18| Clewer, Orange City, Florida, U.S.
Instrument = Drums
Genre = Thrash metal, Heavy metal Speed metal, Jazz
Occupation = Drummer
Years_active = 1983 – 1999
Label = Capital, Combat
Associated_acts = Megadeth Fatal Opera
website =

Gary C. "Gar" Samuelson (February 18 1958 in Dunkirk, New York - July 22 1999 in Orange City, Florida), was the drummer for the thrash metal band Megadeth from 1984 through 1987.

Little is known about Gar before Megadeth, however it is known that he and Chris Poland played in a jazz fusion band called The New Yorkers, and that before this, he and Poland practiced and played together for many years.

After meeting with Dave Mustaine of Megadeth in 1984, it was apparent that he should join the band. He eventually got Chris in the band, creating what Mustaine refers to as 'the first real line-up'. Samuelson would go on to serve as Megadeths drummer until 1987, appearing on the albums 'Killing Is My Business...And Business Is Good', and the heavily praised 'Peace Sells...But Who's Buying', as well as serving through tours, until he was ultimately fired for his extreme drug addictions, especially heroin.

Although Gar's credited for little in his years as Megadeths drummer, he was apparently a very big influence on Dave Mustaine, offering ideas such as shortening the length of certain songs. Also, although not as well received as the second album, 'Killing Is My Business...And Business Is Good' was notable for Gar's extremely talented drums use.

He and his brother Stew, along with Billy Brehme, Travis Karcher and Andy Freeman, would form "Fatal Opera", which released a self-titled album in 1995 and the "Eleventh Hour" in 1997.

Death

Samuelson died at the age of 41 in Orange City, Florida on July 22, 1999; the cause of death was reportedly liver failure. Gar's body was cremated and his ashes were scattered in the Atlantic Ocean, also a memorial service was made in Lankford Chapel in Orange City, Florida. It is unknown if Dave Mustaine or any other Megadeth members attended these ceremonies.

Long-time friend and fellow Dunkirkian Chris Poland said about of Samuelson, "He was a true friend. Everything I know about--time, rhythm and feel--I learned from Gar, so I'll always hear his voice in my music." His drumming was a strong influence in variations of extreme metal.