Zakk Wylde revealed in a recent Sweetwater interview that Randy Rhoads, the late Quiet Riot guitarist, wasn’t a fan of Black Sabbath’s music.
During the conversation, Wylde emphasized the importance of musicians bringing their unique styles to bands. Reflecting on Rhoads’ impact after joining Ozzy Osbourne’s band, Wylde shared:
“I always say, with St. Rhoads being with Ozz. Me coming in, I’m a huge Sabbath freak. I studied at Lord Iommi University, and Randy couldn’t stand Black Sabbath. I just figured everybody in the ’70s had to love Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath. But Randy was coming from Alice Cooper and David Bowie, Mick Ronson was his favorite guy.”
Wylde elaborated on why the partnership between Rhoads and Osbourne was successful:
“That’s why it worked. Because he had no connection with Black Sabbath. So the angle he was coming in was a completely different thing from where Ozzy came from. It has no remnants of Sabbath, at all, but that’s what made it work.”
Rhoads’ relationship with Osbourne began when they were introduced by Slaughter bassist Dana Strum. Despite initial misconceptions, they formed a close bond. Rhoads notably played on songs like ‘Crazy Train’ and ‘Mr. Crowley’ from Osbourne’s debut album, ‘Blizzard of Ozz.’ Reflecting on their bond, Osbourne expressed gratitude for Rhoads’ patience and guidance in a 2022 chat with Stereogum.
Last year, Osbourne paid tribute to Rhoads on his death anniversary through social media posts, honoring his enduring legacy.
You can catch the full conversation with Zakk Wylde below.
