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Zakk Wylde
Zakk Wylde
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Key Information

Zachary Phillip Wylde (born Jeffrey Phillip Wielandt; January 14, 1967) is an American musician. He is best known as the lead guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne and as the founder, lead guitarist, lead singer, songwriter and producer of the heavy metal band Black Label Society.

Wylde's signature bulls-eye design appears on many of his guitars. He was also the lead guitarist and vocalist of Pride & Glory, who released one self-titled album in 1994 before disbanding. As a solo artist, he released the albums Book of Shadows and Book of Shadows II. Wylde joined the reunited Pantera in 2022 as a touring guitarist.

Early life

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Zachary Phillip Wylde[1] was born Jeffrey Phillip Wielandt in Bayonne, New Jersey, on January 14, 1967.[2][3] He is of Irish descent.[4] He started playing guitar at the age of eight, but did not become serious about it until his early teenage years.[3] At the age of 14, he worked at Silverton Music in Silverton, New Jersey. He grew up in Jackson, New Jersey, where he attended Jackson Memorial High School, graduating in 1985.[5] He has stated that he often played the guitar almost non-stop between coming home from school and leaving for school the next morning, then would be completely exhausted during school the next day.[6]

Career

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Early career

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Wylde played locally with his first band Stone Henge, then later with local New Jersey band Zyris.[7]

Ozzy Osbourne (1987–1995, 2001–2009, 2017–2025)

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Wylde (left) with the Ozzy Osbourne band in 1988

In 1987, Wylde auditioned for Ozzy Osbourne after listening to The Howard Stern Show and learning that Osbourne was looking for a new lead guitarist.[8] Wylde was hired to replace Jake E. Lee, who was fired by Ozzy Osbourne manager Sharon Osbourne.[9] He subsequently toured with Osbourne and played on No Rest for the Wicked (1988), No More Tears (1991), and Ozzmosis (1995) as a co-writer.

Wylde was replaced by ex-Lizzy Borden guitarist Joe Holmes in 1995 until Wylde's return in 2001. Although not credited for songwriting, Wylde recorded Down to Earth and appeared on the supporting tour.[10][11] After auditioning different guitarists in 2004 and 2005, Ozzy Osbourne announced Zakk Wylde as the official guitarist for his album Black Rain, which was released in 2007 and also accompanied by a tour.[12]

Wylde rejoined Ozzy Osbourne's band once again for a select number of dates during Osbourne's 2017 summer tour, and then performed on the No More Tours II tour before the remaining shows were postponed and eventually canceled.[13][14] On September 8, 2022, he again joined Osbourne onstage at the SoFi Stadium along with Andrew Watt to perform "Crazy Train" and the title track for Osbourne's album "Patient Number 9" at the NFL's season opening during half-time. The following day, Patient Number 9 was released featuring Wylde playing guitar on 4 tracks.[15][16]

On October 19, 2024, Wylde performed on stage at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse during the 2024 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony for Osbourne, playing Mama, I'm Coming Home and No More Tears.

Pride & Glory (1991–1994)

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Formed in 1991 during what was then billed as Ozzy Osbourne's farewell tour following the 1991 No More Tears album, Wylde recruited the former White Lion rhythm section of bassist James LoMenzo and drummer Greg D'Angelo, and originally wanted to name the Southern rock-inspired project 'Lynyrd Skynhead'.[17] This lineup recorded two songs, an instrumental entitled "Farm Fiddlin" for a 1991 compilation album entitled The Guitars That Rule the World, and a cover of the blues-standard "Baby, Please Don't Go" for the 1992 L.A. Blues Authority Vol. 1 compilation.

By early 1994, the band had changed their name to 'Pride & Glory', with D'Angelo departing and being replaced by Brian Tichy. That year, Pride & Glory released their only album via Geffen Records and performed as a main-stage act at the Donington Monsters of Rock Festival in England in June of that year. In November 1994, LoMenzo left after a tour of Japan, three days before Pride & Glory were scheduled to begin a US Tour. Scrambling, Wylde quickly managed to find a replacement in his long-time friend, John DeServio, who grew up with Wylde in New Jersey. Pride & Glory played their final show on December 10, 1994, in Los Angeles.

On January 31, 1998, the lineup of Wylde, LoMenzo, and Tichy reunited for a one-off reunion show at the Whisky a Go Go in Hollywood.[18]

Solo albums (1996, 2016)

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Following the demise of Wylde's Pride & Glory band, he recorded Book of Shadows in 1996 as a solo album to fulfill his contract with record label Geffen Records. Wylde wrote the second installment of Book of Shadows in between stints on the road, which was released 20 years after the first album on April 16, 2016, with eOne.[19]

Black Label Society (1998–present)

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Wylde in 2010

In 1998, after limited commercial success with Book of Shadows, Wylde and drummer Phil Ondich recorded what became Black Label Society's debut album Sonic Brew with Wylde playing lead guitar, rhythm and bass. Nick Catanese previously toured as a rhythm guitarist for the Book of Shadows tour[20] and eventually joined Black Label Society before being replaced by Dario Lorina in 2013.[21] John DeServio, who was a friend of Zakk's[22] and worked as a temporary replacement in Pride & Glory, played bass for the first Black Label Society tour. DeServio became a permanent member of the band in 2005.[23] Zakk Wylde has since released 11 studio albums, 3 live albums, and 6 compilation albums with Black Label Society.[24]

Black Label Society headlined the second stage at the 2006 Ozzfest, with Wylde playing double duty with Ozzy Osbourne on certain dates.[25] He and the band also joined Osbourne for the Ozzy and Friends Tour in replacement of the Black Sabbath tour scheduled for the summer of 2012, playing a range of European dates including Graspop Metal Meeting in Belgium.[26]

Zakk Sabbath (2014–present)

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Since 2014, Wylde has led a Black Sabbath cover band called 'Zakk Sabbath', handling guitar and vocal duties, joined by Rob "Blasko" Nicholson on bass and Joey Castillo (Danzig, Queens of the Stone Age) on drums, who replaced original drummer John Tempesta. JP Gaster (Clutch) occupied the drummer's seat in between, in September 2017.[27] The band tours intermittently and has released the studio albums Vertigo in 2020, followed by Doomed Forever Forever Doomed in 2024.[28]

Pantera (2022–present)

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On July 14, 2022, it was announced that Wylde had joined the reunited band Pantera to tour as a fill-in for original guitarist Dimebag Darrell who died in 2004.[29] The new lineup featuring Wylde, Phil Anselmo, Rex Brown and Charlie Benante (replacing original drummer Vinnie Paul) debuted on the first night of the Heaven & Hell Metal Fest in Toluca, Mexico on December 2, 2022.[30] Pantera then co-headlined Mexico's Monterrey Metal Fest with Judas Priest,[31] and also performed at Knotfest in Chile, Brazil and Colombia.[32] The band embarked on a full-scale tour of Europe in May and June 2023,[33] and supported Metallica on selected North American dates of their 2023–2024 M72 World Tour. On June 15, 2024, Pantera headlined the Opus Stage at UK's Download Festival, their first UK appearance in 20 years.[34]

Other work

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Zakk Wylde joined a rock/heavy metal supergroup called 'Generation Axe', formed by Steve Vai.[35] The group also includes guitarists Nuno Bettencourt (of Extreme), Yngwie Malmsteen, Tosin Abasi, and has completed several tours from 2016 to 2019.[36] Select performances from a 2017 show in Beijing, China were released as a live album titled Generation Axe – The Guitars That Destroyed the World: Live In China.[37] In 2020, Wylde, along with Generation Axe, were joined by Brian May of the band Queen for a six-guitar performance of Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody" as part of AXS TV's 'At Home And Social With Nuno Bettencourt & Friends' special. The track was compiled of recordings from the musicians in their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic.[38]

Personal life

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Wylde and his wife Barbaranne have four children, one of which Ozzy Osbourne was a godfather of.[39][40] Wylde was a close friend of fellow guitarist "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott and dedicated the song "In This River" to Abbott after he was murdered onstage in 2004.

Wylde is a Catholic[4] who has described himself as a "Soldier of Christ".[41]

In August 2009, Wylde was hospitalized due to blood clots[42] and was subsequently forced to cancel his tour with Mudvayne and Static-X.[43] After his hospitalization, he stopped drinking alcohol.[44]

As of 2011, Wylde has partnered with Blair's Sauces and Snacks to produce 'Berserker Hot Sauce' and several other variations.[45] He also promotes 'Death Wish Coffee' via his Instagram page,[46] as they have used his name in marketing their line "Odinforce Blend".[47]

Equipment

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Wylde gravitated toward a particular Les Paul guitar, a bullseye-painted 1981 Gibson Les Paul Custom purchased from one of the owners of Metaltronix Amplification. Metaltronix was building a one-off live rig for Wylde that was designed around one of the owner's guitars, a creamy white Les Paul Custom with EMG pickups, which would later become known as "The Grail". Originally intended to look like the spiral from the Alfred Hitchcock movie Vertigo, it returned from a paint shop painted incorrectly and Wylde liked the result.[48] Wylde lost the guitar in 2000 after it fell from the back of a truck transporting equipment as he was traveling between gigs in Texas. Rewards were offered to anyone that had information about the guitar. Wylde and The Grail were reunited three years later when a fan bought it at a Dallas pawn shop and saw the initials "Z.W." carved into the humbucker pickups backs. He contacted Wylde's former webmaster Randy Canis to arrange its return to Wylde. Grateful, Wylde gave the fan his signature model in exchange.[6]

Other signature Les Pauls of Wylde's include a red flame-maple bulls-eye model, a black and antique-white bulls-eye model, an orange "buzz-saw" model, the pattern on which was inspired by a design on a Zippo lighter,[49] and a "camo" bulls-eye model with mother of pearl neck inlays and a green camouflage paint scheme.

Another one of Wylde's favorite stage guitars is a GMW RR-V, a model that is famously known as the "Polka-dot V". Originally created by luthier Karl Sandoval of California (used by Randy Rhoads), the guitar is often mistaken as a custom Flying V.

Wylde at Wacken Open Air 2015

Wylde has a custom Dean Splittail with a mud splatter bulls-eye graphic, as well as a signature Splittail shaped Gibson model called the "ZV". Another Dean in his collection is a Dime series Razorback with custom Bulls-eye graphics ordered for him specially by Dimebag Darrell shortly before his murder in 2004; since receiving the guitar, he has only ever used it on stage to play the song "In This River", Zakk's personal tribute to Dimebag.

In practice, Wylde uses Marshall MG Series practice combos ranging in wattage levels from 10-30W during tour/private use especially in hotels and buses. He has also been known to use Marshall Valvestate combo amplifiers. Wylde has an extensive relationship with Marshall Amplification due to his love for their amplifiers, both solid state and tube-driven. Live, Wylde exclusively uses Marshall JCM 800's with twin 4 X 12 Cabinets loaded with EVM12L 300W Black Label Speakers. His usual signal path consists of his guitar > (on stage pedal board) Dunlop Wylde Wah > Dunlop Wylde Rotovibe > MXR ZW Phase 90 > MXR Wylde Overdrive > MXR Carbon Copy Delay > (to a back stage pedal board) > MXR EVH Flanger > MXR Black Label Chorus > split signals, one to each distorted amp into the High Gain input.

A detailed gear diagram of Wylde's 1988 Ozzy Osbourne guitar rig is well-documented.[50]

At the 2015 NAMM Show, Wylde announced his new company called Wylde Audio and provided a preview of his new line of custom guitars and amplifiers.[51] Currently he now is seen playing Wylde Audio equipment almost exclusively.[52]

Awards

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In January 2006, Zakk Wylde was recognized at the Hollywood Rock Walk of Fame for his successful career as a musician and his contribution to the music industry. The event was open to the public and was attended by musicians including Ozzy Osbourne.[53]

In 2010, Wylde accepted the Metal Hammer Golden God Award.[54]

Discography

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Other media

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Guest performances

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Wylde has made guest performances on tracks by other artists:

Live guest performances

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Black Label Society performing in October 2011

Acting performances

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  • In 2001, Wylde appeared as the lead guitarist for a fictional band called Steel Dragon in the movie Rock Star, starring Mark Wahlberg and Jennifer Aniston.[74]
  • Wylde appeared as himself in the Adult Swim animated program Aqua Teen Hunger Force, in the episode "Spirit Journey Formation Anniversary" (season 2, episode 14, first broadcast on October 19, 2003).
  • Wylde appeared in the Californication episode "Suicide Solution" in 2011, credited as "Guitar Guy".[75]
  • Wylde also appeared playing guitar alongside Lorne and other audience members in Angel's season 4 episode "The Magic Bullet" in 2003.
  • Wylde appeared in the 2010 film Bones as Jed, Bones' uncle.

Other media

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Zakk Wylde (born Jeffrey Phillip Wielandt; January 14, 1967) is an American guitarist, singer, songwriter, and best known for his longtime role as lead guitarist for heavy metal icon and as the founder, lead guitarist, lead vocalist, and primary songwriter of the heavy metal band . His signature style features aggressive, pinch-harmonic-laden guitar riffs, rapid , and a distinctive tone often achieved with guitars customized with bullseye graphics. Wylde's career spans over three decades, marked by multi-platinum albums, high-profile collaborations, and contributions to and . Born in , Wylde began playing guitar at age eight but initially quit before resuming lessons at 14 and developing a passion for rock and metal influences like and Led Zeppelin. After graduating from Jackson Memorial High School in 1985, he played in local bands such as Stone Henge before being recruited by at age 20 in 1987, following a recommendation from guitarist . His debut with Osbourne came on the album No Rest for the Wicked (1988), and he contributed to subsequent successes including (1991), which featured the Grammy-winning track "I Don't Want to " (Best Metal Performance with Vocal, 1994, as co-writer), and (1995). In 1998, Wylde founded Black Label Society, releasing their debut album Sonic Brew in 1999 and establishing the band as a powerhouse in heavy metal with a blend of southern rock, groove metal, and acoustic elements across 11 studio albums. He has also pursued solo projects, including the acoustic album Book of Shadows (1996) and its sequel (2016), and formed the southern rock outfit Pride & Glory in the early 1990s. Wylde's achievements include induction into the Hollywood RockWalk in 2006 and multiple Guitar World magazine awards, such as Most Valuable Player in 2006. Beyond music, he has appeared in films like Rock Star (2001) and endorsed products through his Wylde Audio guitar line. Wylde remains active as of 2025, serving as the guitarist for the reunited Pantera since 2022 and paying tributes to Osbourne following his death in July 2025.

Biography

Early life

Zakk Wylde was born Jeffrey Phillip Wielandt on January 14, 1967, in Bayonne, New Jersey, to parents Jerome and his wife. He grew up in Jackson Township, New Jersey, attending Jackson Memorial High School, where he developed his passion for music. Wylde has one sister, Amy. Wylde's interest in guitar began at age eight, sparked by his cousin introducing him to Jimi Hendrix's music, which ignited his enthusiasm for the instrument. Though he initially quit after brief lessons, he resumed playing seriously at age 14, becoming largely self-taught by emulating records from bands like Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, and Rush, as well as Ozzy Osbourne's solo work featuring Randy Rhoads. His first electric guitar was a Les Paul copy, marking the start of intensive practice sessions that could last up to 12 hours a day. During high school, Wylde joined his first local band, Stone Henge, performing covers of and Rush songs at parties. He later replaced Dave Linsk in the band Zyris, where the group played original material alongside covers of and Led Zeppelin. It was with Zyris in the early that Wylde adopted his , initially as "Zakari Wyland" inspired by the character Dr. Zachary Smith from the television series , reflecting his growing professional aspirations in music; this evolved into the moniker Zakk Wylde.

Personal life

Wylde married Barbaranne Wylde in 1992 after being together since their teenage years. The couple has four children: daughter Hayley Rae, and sons Jesse, (named after and born in 2002), and Sabbath Page. The family has resided in for many years, following Wylde's upbringing in . In August 2009, during Black Label Society's Pedal to the Metal tour, Wylde was hospitalized with blood clots in his leg and both lungs, forcing the cancellation of remaining dates; he underwent treatment and returned to performing after recovery. The health scare, linked to his heavy alcohol consumption, led Wylde to quit drinking and achieve , which he has maintained since 2009. Wylde supports music education through involvement with Little Kids Rock, participating in charity events like the Rockwalk induction to raise funds for the organization, which provides instruments and programs to public schools. He also aids veterans via initiatives, including pledges of support to U.S. Marines and ticket donations through Berzerkus festival promotions. Wylde follows a rigorous fitness routine focused on , which he credits for enhancing his stamina during extensive touring.

Career

Early career

Wylde's professional career began in 1984 at the age of 17, when he joined the New Jersey-based band Stone Henge, a group that performed cover songs by artists such as , , and Rush at local parties and venues. The band played informal gigs, including at high school events, helping Wylde hone his guitar skills through rigorous daily practice. In 1985, following his high school graduation, Wylde joined Zyris, another local New Jersey act, where he contributed to original compositions alongside covers of bands like Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin. Zyris performed at clubs such as the Stone Pony in Asbury Park and Close Encounters in southern New Jersey, establishing Wylde in the regional scene through brief engagements with other unsigned groups. During this period, Wylde participated in session work and recorded demo tapes in the tri-state area, though no major releases emerged from these efforts. Wylde's breakthrough came in 1987 after the departure of Jake E. Lee from Ozzy Osbourne's band, when photographer Mark Weiss forwarded a demo tape of Wylde performing Osbourne tracks like "Crazy Train," "I Don't Know," and "Mr. Crowley." The tape, accompanied by a Polaroid photo taken by Wylde's sister, caught Osbourne's attention, leading to an invitation for an audition in Los Angeles. At the audition, the 20-year-old Wylde impressed Osbourne by demonstrating proficiency on several of the singer's songs, securing the position. Later that year, Wylde relocated from New Jersey to Los Angeles to join Osbourne's band on a full-time basis.

Ozzy Osbourne (1987–1995, 2001–2009, 2017–2025)

Zakk Wylde joined 's band as lead guitarist in 1987, replacing following his departure. His debut performance occurred on July 28, 1987, at Prison in , , marking an unconventional start to their collaboration. Wylde's first studio album with Osbourne was No Rest for the Wicked (1988), which featured his aggressive riffing on tracks like "" and "Crazy Babies," co-written by Wylde alongside Osbourne, , and . The album's success propelled extensive touring, including the 1988-1989 No Rest for the Wicked Tour across and . Wylde's tenure continued with contributions to re-recorded versions of tracks from Osbourne's earlier album (1983), adapting them to his heavier style for live performances and compilations. The duo's partnership peaked commercially with (1991), where Wylde's iconic riffs defined the title track and songs like "," co-written with Kilmister. This album achieved platinum status and topped charts, solidifying their sound in heavy metal. Wylde's shredding evolved into more melodic elements, blending technical prowess with Osbourne's vocals. The 1991-1992 No More Tears World Tour was a global endeavor, spanning over 150 dates across the , , and Asia, showcasing high-energy sets that included classics. Wylde's first stint concluded in 1995 as he pursued solo projects, though he briefly returned for select 1998 dates. Wylde rejoined Osbourne in 2001 following the death of drummer , providing stability during a transitional period. His return contributed to Down to Earth (2001), featuring co-writes like "Gets Me Through," which highlighted Wylde's matured riffing and Osbourne's introspective lyrics. The album debuted at No. 4 on the , supported by the Down to Earth Tour, including headlining slots at festivals from 2001 to 2004. Wylde's involvement extended to Osbourne's covers album (2005), where he arranged heavy interpretations of classics like The Beatles' "." In 2007, Wylde played on Black Rain, co-writing tracks such as the title song, amid Osbourne's ongoing commitments. He departed full-time in 2009 to focus on , though sporadic performances continued. Wylde reunited with Osbourne in 2017 for a summer tour commemorating 30 years since their initial collaboration, performing high-energy sets across the U.S. despite Osbourne's health challenges from Parkinson's disease. This third stint produced Ordinary Man (2020), Osbourne's first album in a decade, with Wylde co-writing and performing on tracks like "Straight to Hell" and the title song, earning critical acclaim for its raw emotion. The album reached No. 3 on the Billboard 200. Wylde's role expanded on Patient Number 9 (2022), where he co-wrote much of the material and shared guitar duties with guests including Eric Clapton on "One of Those Days." Limited tours followed, such as the 2022 Patient Number 9 Tour, curtailed by Osbourne's mobility issues, focusing on intimate venues in North America and Europe. Osbourne's final public appearance was the "Back to the Beginning" concert on July 5, 2025, at in Birmingham, , featuring all-stars including Wylde on guitar for encores like "" and "." Wylde assisted Osbourne onstage, rearranging setups to support his performance amid health struggles. Osbourne died of a heart attack on October 9, 2025, at age 76. In reflections, Wylde described Osbourne as having "a heart of gold and tough as nails," emphasizing their bond and Osbourne's enduring spirit. Wylde revealed plans for an unreleased album they had begun recording, intended as a follow-up to , highlighting Osbourne's determination to create until the end. Throughout his three stints, Wylde earned co-writing credits on over 10 songs with Osbourne, including staples from , Down to Earth, Ordinary Man, and , evolving from a high-speed shredder in the late 1980s to a nuanced collaborator by the . His contributions shaped Osbourne's output during pivotal eras, blending blistering solos with songwriting that amplified Osbourne's thematic depth on resilience and mortality.

Pride & Glory (1991–1994)

In 1991, during Ozzy Osbourne's "No More Tours" trek, Zakk Wylde formed Pride & Glory as a casual to explore sounds, a departure from his heavy metal work with Osbourne. Originally dubbed Lynyrd Skynhead, the band began with informal performances on off-nights, drawing on influences like to contrast Wylde's established metal persona. The initial lineup included Wylde on guitar and vocals, on bass from , and drummer , also ex-; D'Angelo was replaced by in early 1994 as the project gained momentum. The band's sole album, Pride & Glory, arrived in May 1994 via , blending gritty riffs with acoustic textures and bluesy elements. Standout tracks like "Horse Called War" highlighted Wylde's raw, swampy guitar tone and vocals, while acoustic-driven songs such as "Sweet Jesus" and ballad "The Chosen One" showcased the album's rootsy diversity. It peaked at No. 151 on the , reflecting modest commercial reception amid Wylde's ongoing Osbourne obligations. Pride & Glory supported the release with a brief 1994 U.S. tour, opening for and on dates including July 31 at the Concord Pavilion in and August 4 at Poplar Creek Music Theatre in . The run encompassed about 10 shows, where Wylde's searing guitar solos drew praise despite the material's uneven impact on audiences more attuned to the headliners' style. The project dissolved by December 1994, following LoMenzo's exit in November and Wylde's need to prioritize Osbourne commitments, including finishing that year's Ozzmosis album. Internal lineup shifts and the pull of metal further shifted Wylde's focus away from . Within Wylde's career, Pride & Glory served as a bridge from his metal foundations to deeper explorations, paving the way for acoustic elements in his subsequent solo efforts.

Solo work (1994–present)

Zakk Wylde's solo endeavors commenced with his debut album, , released on June 17, 1996, via . The project represented a stark contrast to his high-octane heavy metal contributions with , embracing an acoustic-driven sound rooted in and influences. Wylde handled vocals, guitars, keyboards, and bass across the record, which was produced by of fame. Key tracks like "Sold My Soul" and "Between Heaven and Hell" exemplified the album's intimate, ballad-oriented style, drawing from Wylde's experiences during a period away from Osbourne's band after the 1995 tour. The album's themes centered on , personal turmoil, and redemption, with lyrics reflecting Wylde's battles with and emotional —a shift toward a persona that revealed a softer of his artistry. Recorded primarily in Wylde's home studio, it featured sparse arrangements that prioritized and , underscoring his versatility beyond electric shredding. Despite its commercial underperformance relative to his band efforts, Book of Shadows garnered praise for its authenticity and emotional depth among rock critics. Nearly two decades later, Wylde revived the solo series with Book of Shadows II, issued on April 8, 2016, through Entertainment One Music. This follow-up maintained the acoustic blueprint while incorporating subtle orchestral elements and guest contributions, including a vocal feature from Slipknot's on the bonus track "Sleeping Dogs." Standout songs such as "Autumn Changes" and "The Levee" further explored motifs of loss, regret, and resilience, with Wylde's raspy vocals conveying raw sentiment over fingerpicked guitars and accents. The album debuted at No. 41 on the and reached No. 3 on the Top Rock Albums chart, signaling renewed interest in his unplugged work. Wylde's solo output consistently emphasizes lyrical candor on themes like addiction recovery, familial bonds, and existential reflection, evolving from metal aggression to a contemplative folk-rock aesthetic that highlights his influences from artists like and . To support Book of Shadows II, he launched a dedicated U.S. headlining tour in summer 2016, delivering intimate acoustic performances of solo tracks alongside reimagined material in an unplugged vein, reminiscent of the earlier Unblackened outings but focused on personal expression. This was followed by select 2017 dates, where Wylde continued showcasing his acoustic prowess in smaller venues, fostering direct connections with fans through storytelling and stripped-down sets.

Black Label Society (1998–present)

Black Label Society was founded in 1998 by guitarist and vocalist Zakk Wylde during a hiatus from his work with Ozzy Osbourne, initially conceived as a self-titled musical project blending heavy riffs and personal expression. The band quickly expanded into a full ensemble, with bassist Robert Trujillo contributing to early recordings and live performances from 1998 to 2000 before departing to join Metallica. Bassist John DeServio, who had previously collaborated with Wylde in Pride & Glory, joined in 1999 and solidified his role as a core member by 2005, providing continuity amid frequent changes in other positions. Over the years, the lineup has seen multiple drummers, including Craig Nunenmacher, who served from 2004 to 2014 and contributed to several albums during a stable period for the group. Guitarist Dario Lorina joined in 2014, adding rhythmic depth and participating in tours and recordings, while the current configuration includes drummer Jeff Fabb. The band's discography spans 11 studio albums, beginning with the raw, debut effort Sonic Brew in 1999, followed by in 2000, and the more polished in 2003, which featured guest vocals from on the track "Stillborn." Subsequent releases like Mafia (2005) and Order of the Black (2010) built on this foundation, culminating in Doom Crew Inc. in 2021, showcasing Wylde's evolving production and songwriting. Black Label Society's sound fuses with influences, characterized by down-tuned guitars, thunderous rhythms, and Wylde's signature pinch harmonics and solos, drawing from blues-rock roots while emphasizing high-energy aggression. Lyrically, the music explores themes of brotherhood, resilience, and personal struggle, fostering a dedicated fanbase known as the "Berzerkers," who embody the group's ethos of loyalty and endurance. Throughout its history, Black Label Society has maintained an active touring presence, securing slots on alongside acts like and Korn, which helped solidify their place in the heavy metal scene. Wylde launched the Black Label Berzerkus festival tour in 2010, featuring the band as headliners with supporting acts like and , expanding into a multi-attraction event with car shows and strongman competitions by 2024. In recent years, the group has continued releasing material, including the 2025 single "Broken and Blind" in October, an animated video track highlighting their groovy, riff-driven style. This follows earlier singles like "Lord Humungus" in February 2025 and precedes a full-length slated for early 2026 via MNRK Heavy, marking their ongoing evolution under Wylde's leadership.

Zakk Sabbath (2014–present)

Zakk Sabbath is a tribute band formed by guitarist and vocalist Zakk Wylde in 2014 to honor the pioneering heavy metal group and its guitarist , whom Wylde has described as the "Bach, Mozart, and Beethoven of metal guitar." The project emerged from informal jam sessions where Wylde and collaborators recreated 's early material, emphasizing the band's original lineup era from the late 1960s and early 1970s. The band's core lineup has featured Wylde on guitar and vocals, with longtime Black Sabbath bassist Rob "Blasko" Nicholson on bass and drummer , formerly of Queens of the Stone Age, handling percussion. Over time, the rhythm section has seen variations, including drummers of and of White Zombie for select performances, while recent tours have included Black Label Society bassist John "JD" DeServio. This flexibility allows the band to maintain a focus on precise renditions of 's catalog without venturing into original compositions. Zakk Sabbath's discography consists entirely of covers drawn from Black Sabbath's foundational albums, beginning with the 2016 live EP Live in Detroit, recorded during an early performance. In 2020, they released Vertigo, a note-for-note recreation of Black Sabbath's self-titled debut album, captured in a single day to evoke the original's raw energy and issued exclusively on vinyl for authenticity. The band also contributed the track "Under the Sun" to the tribute compilation Vol. 4 [Redux] that same year, reinterpreting material from Black Sabbath's fourth studio album. Their most recent full-length, the 2024 double album Doomed Forever Forever Doomed, faithfully covers Black Sabbath's second album Paranoid on one disc and third album Master of Reality on the other, continuing the sequential homage to the group's early masterpieces. The band has conducted extensive tours since inception, often themed around Halloween to align with Black Sabbath's dark, occult-inspired aesthetic, including a streamed performance on the holiday in 2016. These runs have spanned over 100 shows across 14 countries, prioritizing material from Black Sabbath's first six albums to capture the quintessence of the band's doom-laden origins. In 2025, Zakk Sabbath embarked on the "American Winter Tour," commencing October 30 at The Show at Agua Caliente Resort & Casinos in , and including a November 4 date at The Wilma in , with support from tribute acts like (AC/DC) and (). A European leg followed in March, featuring stops in , Birmingham, and . Performances emphasize meticulous fidelity to Black Sabbath's arrangements, with Wylde's aggressive lead tone incorporating his signature pinch harmonics—squealing overtones produced by lightly muting strings with the picking hand's thumb—for added intensity on riffs like those in "" and "." This approach blends reverence for Iommi's down-tuned, riff-centric style with Wylde's modern heavy metal flair, ensuring no deviations into new songs while amplifying the doom metal pioneer's sonic legacy.

Pantera (2022–present)

In 2022, Zakk Wylde joined the reformed lineup of as the guitarist, stepping in to honor the legacy of the late Abbott, alongside vocalist , bassist , and drummer on drums. The project was framed not as a traditional reunion but as a tribute to Pantera's classic era, allowing the surviving members to perform the band's material live while paying respect to Abbott's contributions. Wylde's involvement was confirmed in July 2022, with rehearsals beginning later that year ahead of live performances. The lineup's debut took place on December 2, 2022, at the Hell & Heaven Metal Festival in Toluca, Mexico, marking Pantera's first show in over two decades and featuring a setlist drawn exclusively from the band's 1990s albums, including tracks from Cowboys from Hell (1990) through The Great Southern Trendkill (1996). Subsequent festival appearances included headlining slots at events like Aftershock Festival in Sacramento, California, on October 10, 2024, where the band delivered high-energy renditions of staples such as "Walk," "I'm Broken," and "Mouth for War." No new original music has been announced for the project, with performances focused solely on revisiting the established catalog to celebrate the band's influential groove metal sound. Wylde's approach to the role emphasizes respectful emulation of Dimebag Darrell's aggressive, pinch-harmonic-laden style, blending it with his own technical precision while avoiding direct imitation. He has employed custom guitars from his Wylde Audio line, including the Warhammer model inspired by Darrell's iconic Dean design, often finished in lightning bolt graphics as a nod to the original. In interviews, Wylde has described the experience as spiritually guided by Darrell's presence, stating that the shows are a way to keep the guitarist's energy alive and share Pantera's music with new generations. The touring schedule has been extensive, encompassing a 2023 European run from May to June across countries including , , and , followed by North American headline dates and support slots on Metallica's . In 2024, the band continued stadium support for Metallica and additional festivals, with a 2025 summer amphitheater headline tour announced for 29 U.S. cities from July to September. As of November 2025, Pantera remains active, with confirmed dates for 2026 including appearances at Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival and support on Metallica's ongoing tour, underscoring Wylde's ongoing commitment to the project.

Other collaborations

Throughout his career, Zakk Wylde has contributed to numerous guest recordings by other artists, showcasing his versatility as a . Wylde has also taken on production roles and songwriting collaborations outside his primary projects. In terms of side projects, Wylde participated in the tour from 2016 to 2019, a guitar supergroup event alongside , , and others, where he performed sets highlighting shred and heavy metal classics to sold-out arenas. He has also joined one-off performances, such as jamming with at festivals and collaborating live with on covers during shared bills in the early 2000s. More recent endeavors include Wylde's involvement in the 2025 Black Sabbath "Back to the Beginning" all-star tribute event, where he performed select tracks from the band's debut alongside surviving members and guest musicians to celebrate its 55th anniversary. Furthermore, Wylde has referenced unreleased tracks from his sessions in the 2000s, including material from the Black Rain era that remains vaulted but occasionally teased in interviews. Among miscellaneous contributions, Wylde's music has appeared in soundtracks, notably with Black Label Society's "" featured in Guitar Hero II (2006), enhancing the game's rock playlist. In endorsements, Wylde launched the Wylde Audio signature guitar line in 2017 through his own brand, focusing on affordable, high-output instruments inspired by his style, though he has distanced himself from broader gear promotions in recent years.

Musical style and equipment

Influences and style

Zakk Wylde's guitar playing draws heavily from a pantheon of rock and metal icons who shaped his aggressive yet melodic approach. He has frequently cited as a foundational influence for his innovative use of effects and expressive phrasing, for pioneering heavy riffs and down-tuned power chords, for neoclassical elements and virtuosic speed, and for blues-infused songcraft and dynamic soloing. His technique is characterized by a blend of precision and raw power, most notably his signature pinch —often dubbed "screamers" or "pick squeals"—which produce piercing, vocal-like wails through a combination of thumb-brushing and string bending. Wylde employs for rapid scalar runs and , using fingers alongside the pick for chicken-picking rolls and banjo-style articulations, enabling fluid transitions between speed and groove. This culminates in his sought-after "bullseye" tone, a thick, saturated with pronounced mids and sustain that emphasizes clarity and harmonic bite. In songwriting, Wylde fuses structures with metal aggression, creating a hybrid style that layers pentatonic bends and modal explorations over heavy rhythms. His lyrics recurrently explore themes of and brotherhood, as in anthems emphasizing unbreakable bonds, alongside personal struggles like addiction and redemption, reflecting a gritty introspection rooted in ethos. Over time, his approach shifted from the speed-metal shred of his era—focused on neoclassical flurries and high-octane solos—to a groove-oriented sound in the , prioritizing sludgy, palm-muted riffs and mid-tempo builds that enhance emotional depth. Wylde's evolution as a player mirrors this maturation: his early work featured virtuosic, Hendrix-inspired solos packed with wide and rapid-fire licks, evolving into a more riff-centric craft that values groove and texture over sheer velocity. In acoustic settings, he reveals a vulnerable side through fingerstyle passages and hybrid-picked melodies, stripping away to highlight melodic and bluesy phrasing. Critics have lauded his tone as a benchmark for modern metal, with highlighting its "thunderous" sustain and midrange punch as emblematic of heavy guitar excellence. In his role with Pantera, Wylde has been compared to for channeling similar aggressive energy and innovation, adapting his style to honor the band's groove-metal legacy while infusing his own harmonic flair.

Equipment

Zakk Wylde's primary throughout much of his career has been his 1981 , affectionately known as "The Grail," which features a distinctive cream-and-black bullseye finish applied in 1987. This instrument, acquired upon joining Ozzy Osbourne's band, is equipped with and 85 active pickups and has been central to his recordings and live performances since the late 1980s. Wylde also favors custom Les Paul-style guitars with similar bullseye aesthetics, including early models featuring a "Wylde Burst" flame top finish. In more recent years, Wylde has incorporated guitars from his own Wylde Audio brand, launched in 2016 in collaboration with , which includes bullseye-finished models like the Odin Grail Rawtop. These set-neck designs typically feature bodies with flamed tops, fingerboards, and his signature EMG ZW pickups for aggressive sustain and clarity. For his role in the reformed lineup since 2022, Wylde employs the Wylde Audio Warhammer, a lightning bolt-finished model inspired by Dimebag Darrell's guitars, maintaining his high-output tone while honoring the band's legacy. On acoustic performances, he has used the Masterbilt EF-500RCCE, a cutaway with solid top for unplugged sets. Wylde's amplifier setup centers on heads, particularly his signature 2203ZW model, a 100-watt all-tube design with 6550 power tubes for tight low-end and midrange bite, often paired with 4x12 cabinets loaded with EVM12L speakers. He has occasionally incorporated Soldano SLO-100 heads for their high-gain overdrive during select recordings and tours. Since 2021, Wylde Audio has offered signature amplifiers, including 100-watt tube heads used in his rig, routed through custom cabs for consistent onstage volume and response. His effects chain remains minimal to preserve a raw, direct tone, primarily consisting of a Dunlop Cry Baby WAH (signature model tuned to his specifications for vocal-like sweeps) and an Wylde Audio Phase pedal, a reissue of the Phase 90 with adjustable speed for dynamic leads. Wylde avoids extensive pedalboards, favoring amp-driven gain over multi-effect processing. Signature equipment lines developed by Wylde include the Wylde Audio guitar series since 2016, featuring models like the and with bullseye graphics and active electronics. His EMG ZW pickup set, comprising the 81 bridge and 85 humbuckers, provides the ceramic-magnet aggression central to his across brands. For strings, he endorses GHS Boomers Zakk Wylde signature sets in gauges like 10-60 for standard and drop tunings, offering balanced tension and longevity. Wylde's gear has evolved from vintage Gibson Les Pauls in his early Ozzy era to reinforced modern designs under Wylde Audio, addressing long-term wear through updated necks and hardware while retaining his bullseye motif and high-gain focus.

Legacy

Awards and honors

Zakk Wylde's contributions to heavy metal have earned him several notable nominations and awards throughout his career. In 2005, Black Label Society's track "Stillborn" received a Grammy Award nomination for Best Hard Rock Performance at the 47th Annual Grammy Awards. Similarly, his guitar work on Ozzy Osbourne's 1991 album No More Tears, particularly the song "I Don't Want to Change the World," contributed to a Grammy win for Best Metal Performance at the 36th Annual Grammy Awards in 1994 (for the live version), marking Osbourne's first Grammy. Wylde has been frequently recognized in magazine's reader polls and rankings. He was voted Best Metal Guitarist alongside in the 2002 Readers' Poll, and has been named in the magazine's annual polls for multiple years, including 2000 and 2004. Additionally, in 's 2004 list of the 100 Greatest Heavy Metal Guitarists of All Time, Wylde ranked at number 8. Other honors include the Revolver Golden Gods Award for Best Guitarist, which Wylde won in 2010. In 2006, he was inducted into the Hollywood RockWalk. In 2007, he performed a to during Darrell's induction ceremony. Wylde also received the Riff Lord Award at the 2005 , following his participation in the 2003 event. No formal awards for Wylde have been announced as of November 2025, though he has received widespread tributes following Ozzy Osbourne's death in July 2025, including public statements honoring their collaboration.

Cultural impact

Zakk Wylde's influence on subsequent generations of metal guitarists is evident through his mentorship efforts and direct endorsements of emerging talents. He has conducted instructional programs such as the Berzerker Guitar Camp, an online course launched in 2022 that provides over 12 hours of lessons across 94 videos, catering to players from beginners to advanced levels and emphasizing disciplined practice of scales and techniques. Wylde has also publicly praised Avenged Sevenfold's as "the torchbearer for young kids to play solos," highlighting Gates' innovative lines inspired by classical and influences in a 2014 , positioning him as a modern successor to traditional shredding styles. In his role with the reunion lineup since 2022, Wylde has been instrumental in preserving and reviving Dimebag Darrell's legacy, performing iconic riffs with deep respect to ensure the band's endures for new audiences, as he explained in a 2024 discussion on Darrell's songwriting impact. Wylde's fanbase, particularly through , has fostered a dedicated "Berzerker" characterized by its biker-inspired and global loyalty, with fan groups like Berzerkers Worldwide uniting supporters around the band's heavy rock anthems and communal spirit. His participation in during the early 2000s played a key role in bridging traditional metal with the nu-metal explosion, as 's main-stage performances alongside acts like exposed groove-oriented riffs to a broader, youth-driven audience amid the festival's nu-metal dominance. In media representations, Wylde appeared as a boss character in the 2008 video game Guitar Hero World Tour, where players dueled his blistering solos in a custom track, introducing his pinch-harmonic-heavy style to gamers and reinforcing his status as a virtual guitar icon. His signature "Grail" Les Paul guitar, a 1981 Custom with a bullseye finish acquired in 1987, has become a cultural symbol of his Ozzy Osbourne era, detailed in numerous interviews as the instrument behind hits like "No More Tears," despite a near-loss in 2000 when it fell from a truck. Wylde's broader legacy lies in bridging 1980s hair metal's melodic shredding—rooted in his early Ozzy work—with the of the 2000s via Black Label Society's Sabbath-influenced riffs and emotional depth, creating a hybrid that influenced heavy rock. Following Ozzy Osbourne's death in July 2025, Wylde issued heartfelt tributes, including a public statement on their final text exchange and reflections on Osbourne's fortitude, underscoring his enduring role in honoring metal's pioneers through projects like Zakk Sabbath. While occasionally typecast as a one-dimensional shredder due to his aggressive pinch harmonics and speed, Wylde has been praised for his versatility, as seen in Black Label Society's 2014 album Catacombs of the Black Vatican, which blends veteran maturity with hooks across metal subgenres.

Discography

With Ozzy Osbourne

Zakk Wylde first joined 's band in 1987 at age 20, serving as lead guitarist during multiple periods and contributing to a series of studio and live releases that defined Osbourne's heavy metal sound in the late 1980s through the 2020s. His playing, characterized by aggressive riffs and pinch harmonics, featured prominently on full albums and select tracks across Osbourne's output, with notable songwriting input on key hits. Wylde's stints ended and resumed due to Osbourne's lineup changes, but he remained a recurring collaborator until Osbourne's final projects.

Studio Albums

Wylde's studio contributions spanned six albums, where he handled lead guitar duties on all tracks during his primary tenures from 1987–1995 and 2001–2009, as well as select recordings later.
AlbumYearKey Credits
No Rest for the Wicked1988Lead guitar on all tracks; debut collaboration with Osbourne.
No More Tears1991Lead guitar on all tracks; co-writer on title track "No More Tears" (with Osbourne, Randy Castillo, Mike Inez, John Purdell) and "Mama, I'm Coming Home" (with Osbourne, Lemmy Kilmister). The album achieved 5× Platinum certification from the RIAA for over 5 million units sold in the U.S.
Ozzmosis1995Lead guitar on all tracks.
Down to Earth2001Lead guitar on all tracks; return after a six-year hiatus.
Black Rain2007Lead guitar on all tracks.
Patient Number 92022Lead guitar on tracks 1–3, 6–9, 11–12; keyboards on tracks 1, 5, 7, 9; organ on track 8.
In November 2025, Wylde disclosed that Osbourne had expressed interest in recording a new collaborative album prior to his death, aiming to recapture the style of their early 1990s work, though no material was released.

Live Albums

Wylde's live recordings with Osbourne captured high-energy performances from their tours.
AlbumYearKey Credits
Live & Loud1995Guitars on all tracks; piano on "Changes"; documented the No More Tears tour finale.
Live at Budokan2002Guitars on all tracks; recorded during the Down to Earth tour.
Compilations like The Essential (2003) include selections featuring Wylde's guitar work from prior albums, but no new contributions.

With

, formed by Zakk Wylde in 1998, has built a prolific catalog under his leadership as primary songwriter, , and vocalist, blending heavy metal with influences. The band's lineup has evolved significantly over the years, with core members including various bassists like and drummers such as Craig Nunenmacher, alongside guest and touring contributors, reflecting Wylde's vision for a rotating collective of musicians.

Studio Albums

The following table lists Black Label Society's studio albums, all led by Wylde:
TitleRelease YearLabel
Sonic Brew1999Mercury Records
Stronger Than Death2000Spitfire Records
1919 Eternal2002Spitfire Records
The Blessed Hellride2003Spitfire Records
Hangover Music Vol. VI2004Spitfire Records
Mafia2005Artemis Records
Shot to Hell2006Roadrunner Records
Order of the Black2010E1 Music
Catacombs of the Black Vatican2014Mascot Records
Grimmest Hits2018Entertainment One
Doom Crew Inc.2021MNRK Heavy
Untitled (upcoming)Early 2026MNRK Heavy / Spinefarm Records
Early material for Sonic Brew incorporated repurposed demos from Wylde's prior project Pride & Glory, including tracks like "Mother Mary."

EPs and Singles

Black Label Society has issued select EPs and singles, often previewing album material. Notable is the 2025 single "Broken and Blind," released as a lead-in to the band's upcoming 2026 studio album, featuring Wylde's signature riff-driven style.

Live Albums

The band has documented its high-energy performances through live releases, emphasizing Wylde's guitar prowess and the group's camaraderie:
  • Skullage (2009, Armoury Records): A compilation blending studio tracks with live recordings and videos, capturing the band's evolution.
  • Unblackened (2013, Entertainment One): An acoustic live album recorded at Club Nokia in , showcasing stripped-down arrangements of BLS classics.

Solo and other projects

Wylde's solo work emphasizes acoustic-driven compositions, departing from his heavier metal associations to explore introspective, roots-oriented rock. His debut solo album, Book of Shadows, released on June 18, 1996, by , features a runtime of 51 minutes and 22 seconds across 12 tracks, blending , , and heavy metal elements with prominent work. The album was reissued in 1999 by Spitfire Records with a bonus track, "Evil Ways," originally a Japanese exclusive. Two decades later, Wylde followed with Book of Shadows II on April 8, 2016, via Entertainment One Music, comprising 12 all-acoustic ballads that highlight his songwriting influences from acts like and . Prior to these solo efforts, Wylde fronted the short-lived project Pride & Glory, which issued its self-titled album on June 7, 1994, through . The 12-track release fuses and southern metal, showcasing Wylde's vocal and multi-instrumental talents alongside bandmates on bass and on drums. The album, produced by Wylde, marked his first major self-fronted endeavor outside Ozzy Osbourne's band and was reissued in 2019 with five bonus tracks. In 2019, Wylde contributed to the live album The Guitars That Destroyed the World: Live in China by the Generation Axe supergroup, released on June 28 via earMUSIC. Capturing performances from the group's Asian tour, the 11-track recording features Wylde alongside , , , and , emphasizing instrumental showcases and collaborative jams in a and metal framework. Wylde's Black Sabbath tribute project, Zakk Sabbath, debuted with Vertigo on September 4, 2020, through Magnetic Eye Records, a faithful studio recreation of Sabbath's 1970 self-titled album recorded live to two-inch tape for authenticity. The eight-track effort preserves the original's doom-laden essence while infusing Wylde's signature guitar tone, supported by bassist John Jabailey (as Blasko) and drummer .

Other media appearances

Guest recordings

Zakk Wylde has contributed to numerous albums as a guest , session player, or full-time collaborator, often providing his distinctive heavy guitar solos and riffs that enhance the tracks' intensity. His studio guest work spans rock, metal, and compilations, showcasing his versatility while maintaining his signature pinch harmonics and aggressive tone. One of his early notable guest contributions was providing backing vocals and guitar on "Soul Bleed" from Damageplan's debut studio album (2004). In 2005, Wylde made a on Fozzy's album All That Is Solid... Just Won't Die, contributing guitar to support the band's sound. Wylde's prowess shone on Derek Sherinian's all- album Blood of the Snake (2006), where he delivered guitar parts alongside other guitarists like Slash and , blending fusion and rock elements. He also featured on Leslie West's Unusual Suspects (), providing guitar on several tracks with fellow guests including Slash, highlighting his role in all-star rock projects. Wylde's guest work has included high-profile releases, such as the 2022 Ozzy Osbourne single "Nothing Feels Right," where he played guitar. These appearances emphasize Wylde's reputation for elevating tracks through his powerful, melodic solos, often drawing from his influences in and Led Zeppelin.

Live guest appearances

Throughout his career, Zakk Wylde has made several notable one-off live guest appearances, often joining other artists for improvisational jams or special performances at festivals and events. These collaborations highlight his versatility as a and his connections within the heavy metal community. One of Wylde's earliest high-profile guest spots occurred at the , where he participated in a closing alongside members of Mötley Crüe, , and , performing a cover of ' " Music." The event, held at Moscow's Lenin Stadium, featured Wylde contributing guitar riffs during the all-star finale, which aimed to promote peace and featured acts like (Wylde's then-band), , and Scorpions. In 1994, Wylde joined Slash for a guest performance at Gibson's "Night of 100 Guitars" concert at in , where they dueted on Jimi Hendrix's "Voodoo Child (Slight Return)." The event celebrated Gibson's centennial with over 100 guitarists, including and Neil Schon, and Wylde's appearance marked an early example of his camaraderie with alumni. During the mid-1990s, Wylde engaged in informal jam sessions with members Slash, , , and at McKagan's home studio, exploring new material amid the band's post-Axl Rose lineup shifts. These unreleased sessions, which Wylde described as casual and pizza-fueled, directly inspired the Black Label Society track "Road Back Home" from their 1999 album Sonic Brew. At 2002, Wylde made a surprise guest appearance with second-stage band during their performance of "Halo" at multiple stops, including the tour's Holmdel, date. His blistering solo added intensity to the nu-metal track, and the collaboration was later included on the official Ozzfest 2002 live album. In May 2016, ahead of Meets , Wylde jammed with Slipknot's and Disturbed's at a press conference event in , covering classics like "" and "Paranoid." The impromptu set underscored Wylde's Sabbath expertise and built hype for the festival. Wylde continued his tradition of festival collaborations in August 2023 at John Petrucci's Guitar Universe camp in , where he joined Dream Theater's guitarist for their first onstage on Black Label Society's "Suicide Messiah." The extended performance featured dual leads and was part of a week-long event with other shredders like . Later that year, on October 5, 2023, Wylde made an unannounced guest appearance with at Yaamava' Theater in , trading solos with on "Would?" during the band's set. The surprise moment celebrated shared history and drew cheers from the audience. In a poignant farewell performance, Wylde served as backing for and at the July 5, 2025, "Back to the Beginning" benefit concert at in Birmingham, England. Reuniting the original Sabbath lineup for their final show, Wylde supported Osbourne on solo tracks like "" and contributed solos during Sabbath encores, including "Paranoid," while adjusting his setup onstage to aid Osbourne's mobility amid health challenges. The event raised funds for and marked an emotional close to Sabbath's legacy. Wylde's guest spots, frequently unannounced and dubbed "Berzerker surprises" by fans (a nod to his loyalists), often occur at festivals like or tribute events, emphasizing spontaneous metal camaraderie over planned tours.

Acting roles

Zakk Wylde has made several cameo and supporting appearances in films and television, often portraying characters that draw on his rock musician persona. His most notable film role came in the 2001 rock drama Rock Star, where he played Ghode, the lead guitarist for the fictional band Steel Dragon, appearing alongside and in scenes depicting the excesses of the music industry. In television, Wylde had a recurring presence on the MTV reality series from 2002 to 2005, appearing as himself in multiple episodes as Ozzy Osbourne's bandmate and friend, contributing to the show's portrayal of rock star life through candid interactions during tours and home settings. He also featured in the 2006 VH1 episode on , providing insights into the band's dynamics and his personal connections within the metal scene. Additionally, Wylde portrayed Guitar Guy, a store employee assisting a customer with guitar strings, in the 2011 Californication episode "," injecting humor into a scene at a music shop. Wylde's limited acting credits extend to independent films, including a role as Uncle Jed in the 2010 coming-of-age drama Bones, where he supported the story of teens navigating loss and growth, and as Gang Leader in the 2010 sports drama , a tale of two brothers pursuing a baseball legend's milestone. In music videos, he appeared in narrative segments of Ozzy Osbourne's 1991 "," embodying his guitarist role amid surreal, story-driven visuals that complemented the song's themes. These roles highlight Wylde's occasional forays into , typically leveraging his authentic heavy metal image without pursuing a full-time career in the field.

Additional media

Zakk Wylde co-authored the book Bringing Metal to the Children: The Complete Berserker's Guide to World Domination in 2011 with Eric Hendrikx, serving as a humorous handbook on heavy metal culture that includes anecdotes from his career involving and , alongside tips for aspiring rockers on tour life and metal etiquette. The 224-page volume blends storytelling of debauchery and mayhem with Wylde's persona as a "guitar god," aimed at fans seeking an insider's view of the genre. He also contributed a to Guitars Illustrated: A Stunning Visual Catalog Charting the Origins of Influential Guitars in 2012, providing insights into iconic instruments that shaped rock and metal history. Wylde released instructional materials for guitarists, including the Zakk Wylde - Guitar Play-Along Volume 150 book in 2012, which features transcriptions and play-along tracks for songs like "No More Tears" and "Stillborn" to help musicians replicate his style. Additionally, the Guitar Apprentice: Zakk Wylde Signature Edition (2012) is a six-DVD instructional set where he breaks down riffs, solos, and techniques from his catalog, progressing through 15 learning levels per song and including gear tours. In video games, Wylde appears as a playable character in Guitar Hero World Tour (2008), where players unlock him after a boss battle featuring his likeness and heavy metal-themed highway. Wylde founded Wylde Audio in the 2010s, a brand producing electric guitars such as the Berzerker and Odin Grail models, designed to capture his aggressive tone and stage presence while expanding to accessories and lifestyle products for metal enthusiasts. He partnered with Death Wish Coffee Company in 2014 to launch Valhalla Java Odinforce Blend, a high-caffeine coffee line inspired by Norse mythology and his Black Label Society ethos, which includes whole bean, ground, and pod options and has been promoted through joint podcasts and merchandise. Wylde featured in the concert film Unblackened: Zakk Wylde & Black Label Society Live (2013), a performance captured at Club Nokia in Los Angeles that showcases acoustic and electric sets from the band's catalog, highlighting their evolution in heavy metal. Following Ozzy Osbourne's death on July 22, 2025, Wylde participated in tribute specials, including interviews in outlets like Billboard and Rolling Stone detailing their final moments and Osbourne's influence, as well as family disclosures in November 2025 about Osbourne's hospitalization two weeks prior to the "Back to the Beginning" concert. Wylde shares guitar clinics on , offering tutorials on his techniques through collaborations like Lick Library's lessons on solos from "" and tracks, as well as a 2016 Guitar Center master class demonstrating riffs and tone setups. These videos emphasize pentatonic scales, , and pinch harmonics, drawing from his and solo work to educate aspiring players.

References

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