The KING of Shred Returns Zakk Wylde

Long-time Santa Clarita resident Zakk Wylde was born on January 14, 1967 in Bayonne, NJ and is an American musician, singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, producer and occasional actor. He is known for being the guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne and also founder of the heavy metal band Black Label Society as well as Black Sabbath cover band Zakk Sabbath. He has been married to Barbaranne Wylde since December 14, 1992 and they have 4 children. Let’s meet the man behind the music.

(Q)Tell me about “Grimmest Hits” and what type of material has been written?
(A) It’s a new batch of material that we wrote. We had 20 days to write in between Zakk Sabbath and preparing to tour with Black Label Society. We spent time getting tracks recorded and allowing time to reflect on the music. The album is called, Grimmest not Greatest Hits, because you need to have one key ingredient, which is a hit single!

(Q)Do you regularly write while touring?
(A) Sometimes I do! There are some riffs that make it back home after a tour. I usually record ideas on my phone, whether I’m on the road or at home, and then listen to it later. After touring, the writing progresses and so begins the process of a new album.

(Q) Describe the songwriting process and do all members participate?
(A) In most cases, I’ll write the music in one sitting. I piece together the riffs and sections and prepare to do the tracking. Reflection of the music is important before constructing the lyrics. It is then a collaborative effort to fuse the music and the lyrics.

(Q) What are your tour plans with Black Label Society and who is sharing the stage with you guys?
(A) We are currently on a world tour that started in the United States. Black Label Society is touring with Corrosion of Conformity, Eyehategod and Red Fang.

(Q) How do you manage touring with BLS and Ozzy simultaneously?
(A) In between shaving my legs, waxing and my manicure appointments, I found the time to record another album. All kidding aside, I will be back on the road with Ozzy for the farewell tour. Somehow, we get all the work done. I am supported by a great group of people that allow me to work productively. In return, I am able to commit to many opportunities.

(Q) Who have you listened to or have been inspired by lately?
(A) I still listen to the same old childhood heroes such as Led Zeppelin, Sabbath, Molly Hatchet, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Frank Marino and the Mahogany Rush, Robin Trower, Elton John, The Band, Sam Cooke, Percy Sledge, The Eagles, The Allman Brothers and lots of classic rock. Ritchie Blackmore, Toni Iommi and Jimmy Page are my personal favorite guitarists.

(Q) How do you feel about the reunion with Ozzy and his farewell tour?
(A) I’m glad to be with the boss again and jamming with the guys. It’s a blessing and a pleasure to work with Ozzy. It’s amazing anything gets done on tour because we are always laughing all the time. I really enjoy working with him, we’re family and it’s good to be back. I’m doing what I want in my life, which is recording and performing music. That is my goal. Whatever Ozzy needs, I’m there for him.

(Q) What happened during the Los Angeles wildfires? Did you have to evacuate?
(A) Yes. My family members and the dogs got out, so no harm came to the family. The firefighters are great in our community. The fire was nearly a half-mile from my house and the firefighters did an excellent job protecting homes, people and animals.

(Q) Any last words?
(A) Yes. It’s the highest calorie fat-burning album on the market. Go pick up Grimmest Hits today!

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