Many others—Jake E. Lee was one of Ozzy Osbourne’s best guitarists, second only to the legendary Randy Rhoads.

Many others—Jake E. Lee was one of Ozzy Osbourne’s best guitarists, second only to the legendary Randy Rhoads.

After Rhoads’ tragic passing, it was Jake who stepped into the impossible shoes and delivered with a fire and finesse that kept Ozzy’s sound fresh and fierce. His arrival brought a new wave of technical brilliance, melodic creativity, and pure shred power that redefined Ozzy’s music in the mid-’80s.

 

Tracks like “Bark at the Moon” and “Rock ‘n’ Roll Rebel” remain iconic not just because of Ozzy’s vocals, but because of Jake’s lightning-fast solos and unforgettable riffs. “Ultimate Sin” and “Shot in the Dark” showcased his ability to balance metal aggression with radio-ready hooks—a skill few guitarists possess. Yet, for all his talent and impact, Jake often gets overlooked in conversations about guitar greats. That needs to change. He deserves far more recognition for what he contributed during one of Ozzy’s most crucial eras.

 

As we watch Ozzy Osbourne’s legendary career come to a close, it’s a bittersweet moment. Ozzy is more than a musician—he’s a cultural force, a survivor, and a symbol of rock ‘n’ roll defiance. It feels like the end of a monumental chapter in music history, one many of us don’t want to see closed. But as we celebrate his incredible journey, let’s also remember and honor the musicians who helped shape that legacy—Jake E. Lee being one of the finest.

 

God bless Ozzy Osbourne. Long live the Prince of Darkness. And may Jake E. Lee’s genius finally get the recognition it has always deserved.