A legendary heavy metal musician, known for his iconic guitar riffs and powerful vocals, leading bands like Black Label Society and Ozzy Osbourne's crew.
Zakk Wylde is a household name in the heavy metal music scene, renowned for his work as the lead guitarist for the "Prince of Darkness" Ozzy Osbourne and as the founder, lead guitarist, lead singer, songwriter, and producer of the iconic band Black Label Society.
Born Jeffrey Phillip Wielandt on January 14, 1967, in Bayonne, New Jersey, Wylde's passion for music started early, with him picking up the guitar at the age of eight. However, it wasn't until his early teenage years that he became serious about mastering the instrument.
Wylde's early life was marked by his dedication to music, often practicing for hours on end, much to the detriment of his schoolwork. After graduating from Jackson Memorial High School in 1985, he worked at Silverton Music in Silverton, New Jersey, further honing his skills.
Wylde's big break came in 1987 when he auditioned for Ozzy Osbourne's band after hearing about the audition on The Howard Stern Show. He replaced Jake E. Lee and went on to tour with Osbourne, playing on several albums, including No Rest for the Wicked, No More Tears, and Ozzmosis.
In 1994, Wylde formed the band Pride & Glory, releasing a self-titled album before disbanding. However, this marked the beginning of his solo career, with the release of his debut album Book of Shadows in 1996.
In 1998, Wylde founded Black Label Society, a heavy metal band that has since become a staple of the genre. The band has released 11 albums, with Wylde's signature bullseye design becoming an iconic symbol of the band's music.
In addition to his work with Black Label Society, Wylde has also released a second solo album, Book of Shadows II, in 2016. In 2022, he joined the reunited Pantera as a touring guitarist, further solidifying his reputation as a master of heavy metal.
Wylde's signature bullseye design is a testament to his unique approach to guitar playing. Known for his powerful, chunky riffs and lightning-fast solos, Wylde's playing style has influenced a generation of metal musicians.
His impact on modern metal is undeniable, with bands like Audioslave, Velvet Revolver, and Rival Sons citing him as an inspiration.
Wylde's approach to music is deeply rooted in his philosophy of living life on his own terms. He has stated that he believes in "always being true to yourself and playing from the heart."
In his personal life, Wylde is known for his dedication to his family and his strong sense of morality. He has been married to his wife, Barbaranne Wylde, since 1991, and they have three children together.
Throughout his career, Wylde has been nominated for several awards, including a Grammy nomination for his work on Ozzy Osbourne's No More Tears album.
In 2012, Wylde was inducted into the Guitar Center's Hollywood RockWalk, a testament to his enduring influence on the music industry.
Zakk Wylde's impact on heavy metal music cannot be overstated. With his powerful playing style, iconic designs, and unwavering dedication to his craft, he has inspired a generation of musicians and fans alike.
As a true innovator and pioneer in the world of heavy metal, Wylde's legacy will continue to shape the genre for years to come.
