Gus G on Ozzy Osbourne, Black Sabbath, and Bringing Back Jake E. Lee Era Classics

🎸 Greek heavy metal guitarist Gus G spent a significant eight-year tenure as part of Ozzy Osbourne’s band, joining in 2009 and contributing to the album Scream. Now, the former Ozzy guitarist is offering insights into the complex history of the Prince of Darkness’s solo career, particularly why some fan-favorite tracks were long ignored, and his feelings about missing out on a monumental event.

The Jake E. Lee Era: Why Ozzy Avoided Those Songs

During his time with Ozzy Osbourne, Gus G noticed the conspicuous absence of material from the Jake E. Lee era—specifically, tracks from the influential albums Bark at the Moon and The Ultimate Sin. He eventually probed the metal icon about it.

In an interview with BraveWords, Gus G recalled the conversation and revealed a surprising personal reason behind the omission:

> “I remember one day going up to him and telling him how much I loved ‘Ultimate Sin.’ And he was like, ‘I don’t like the production of that, and I wasn’t in a good mood, in a good state of mind,’ he said.”

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Ozzy’s reluctance stemmed not from the quality of the music, but from the difficult emotional and personal state he was in while recording those records. However, Gus G’s honest appraisal of the material—stating he thought there were “some gems on that record,” particularly singling out the song “Killer Of Giants”—may have helped change the legendary frontman’s mind. Shortly after their conversation, the Jake E. Lee material, including “Killer of Giants,” found its way back onto the Ozzy Osbourne setlist.

Missing the Black Sabbath Final Show Event

Gus G was notably absent from the “Back to the Beginning” event, a festival celebrating the history of Black Sabbath—the band that launched Ozzy’s career. Despite his significant time in Ozzy’s solo band, he was not invited, a fact that surprised some fans who expected to see major Ozzy guitarists like him, Zakk Wylde, and Jake E. Lee.

However, Gus G insists there is no ill will or touchy subject concerning the snub.

> “No, it’s not [a touchy subject]. Not at all for me. I was just not in touch at all. I had no idea [about the event].”

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The guitarist explained that musical director Tom Morello was responsible for curating the guest list, and he simply wasn’t on it. Despite the exclusion, Gus G expressed satisfaction with his professional achievements, stating, “I got my fair share of jamming with Ozzy. How many people can say that?” The Greek Guitarist added that he was genuinely happy to see his predecessor Jake E. Lee back participating in the festivities, confirming his status as a true metal fan first.