🎸 Ozzy Osbourne’s Former Guitarist Criticizes Current State of Iconic Hair Metal Band
The rumor mill surrounding classic rock supergroup Ratt was swiftly and decisively shut down by one of their earliest members, guitar virtuoso Jake E. Lee. The former Ozzy Osbourne guitarist, who spent a brief period with Ratt in 1980 and 1981, has categorically denied recent speculation that he was approached to rejoin the band to fill the vacancy left by the departure of long-time guitarist Warren DeMartini.
Speaking during an appearance on the Talking Metal podcast, Lee expressed deep disappointment and criticism regarding the current trajectory and lineup of the iconic hair metal band. His comments suggest that the state of the band is far from what he—and many fans—remember, making a reunion an undesirable prospect.
A Difficult History and a Disappointing Present
Lee’s early association with Ratt predates their massive success with albums like Out of the Cellar. He left before they hit their commercial peak, going on to achieve international fame as the guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne, contributing to legendary albums such as Bark at the Moon and The Ultimate Sin. He later found success with his own hard rock band, Badlands.
When asked directly about the rumors of a potential return to the Ratt fold following DeMartini’s exit, Lee did not mince words. His response was a clear rejection rooted in disillusionment: “No, that’s not true. I wouldn’t do it. It’s sad what Ratt is today.”
This quote immediately sent shockwaves through the classic rock and metal fan communities, highlighting the internal friction and fractured relationships that have plagued the band for years. Ratt has notoriously struggled with lineup stability and legal battles over the band name, leading to various iterations often centered around vocalist Stephen Pearcy.
Why No Reunion? The Legacy vs. The Lineup
Lee’s decision to publicly distance himself from the current incarnation of Ratt speaks volumes about the perceived degradation of the band’s legacy. For a respected musician known for his integrity and distinctive playing style, associating with a lineup that he views as substandard is clearly not an option, regardless of the potential financial incentive of a reunion tour.
The ongoing debate over the band’s authenticity and current quality is a common theme in the world of 80s metal, but Lee’s condemnation carries extra weight given his foundational role in the band’s history and his standing as a highly respected electric guitar player.
While Ratt continues to navigate its future and search for a replacement for DeMartini, Lee remains focused on his current band, Red Dragon Cartel, continuing his legacy as a prominent figure in hard rock music. His unambiguous statement leaves no room for speculation: the brief chapter of Jake E. Lee and Ratt is definitively closed, serving as a sad commentary on the state of one of the biggest acts of the MTV era.