Zakk Wylde Reflects on Ozzy’s Powerful Music

Zakk Wylde has unveiled a music video for “Ozzy’s Song,” his heartfelt tribute to Ozzy Osbourne. The guitarist also debuted the track live during Black Label Society’s March 27 show in Madison, Wisconsin, marking the song’s first-ever performance onstage.

The emotional video draws from archival photos and footage documenting Wylde’s years alongside Osbourne—whom he fondly referred to as “the Boss.” It also includes images spanning Osbourne’s career with Black Sabbath, as well as glimpses of his early life. Speaking in a recent interview, Wylde described the songwriting process as deeply personal.

How “Ozzy’s Song” Came Together

Wylde explained that he wrote the lyrics shortly after Osbourne’s passing. “I wrote the lyrics when we got back, after laying Ozzy to rest… I just listened to music and wrote them right there,” he said. Collaborator Adam Fuller encouraged him to use his iconic 1981 Gibson Les Paul Custom—nicknamed the “Grail”—for the solo. The guitar holds special significance, as it was used to write “Miracle Man,” Wylde’s first co-write with Osbourne. “It felt right that this would be the final piece—a tribute to the Boss,” he added.

A New Chapter for Black Label Society

“Ozzy’s Song” appears on Engines of Demolition, the band’s 12th studio album, released this week. Wylde noted that unlike previous projects—often fueled by a rush of ideas—this album evolved more gradually. Initial sessions in 2022 produced a large batch of material, but the timeline shifted as Wylde took on touring duties with Pantera.

That extended process ultimately worked in the album’s favor, allowing him to refine and expand the material. Wylde also embraced a staggered release approach, dropping singles over time so listeners could fully absorb each track.

Honoring Ozzy on the Road

Beyond the new song, Wylde has continued to celebrate Osbourne’s legacy during live performances. Black Label Society recently reintroduced “No More Tears” into their setlist for the first time since 2001, a song they previously recorded in the late ’90s. He has also dedicated “Stillborn,” which originally featured Osbourne, to his late friend.

Wylde described the band’s recent shows as both emotional and uplifting. “It’s pretty awesome… people chant Ozzy’s name at every gig,” he said. “It’s a beautiful thing. His energy is still there—it’s a way to celebrate his life and greatness.”

Reflecting on the connection between fans and the music, Wylde added that these songs carry deep personal meaning for listeners. He compared the experience to performing material associated with Randy Rhoads, noting that each performance becomes a tribute to the artist’s enduring legacy.

On the current tour, Wylde delivers a two-part performance: opening with Zakk Sabbath—his Black Sabbath tribute act—before transitioning into a full Black Label Society set, blending homage with his own band’s powerful catalog.