In the world of rock ‘n’ roll, the line between technical perfection and raw emotion is often a point of contention. In a recent, candid conversation with radio veteran Eddie Trunk, legendary guitarist Jake E. Lee (Ozzy Osbourne, Badlands) dived deep into this dichotomy. During the interview, Lee offered a refreshing perspective on what makes a guitar hero truly iconic, distinguishing between the “charming” grit of the 1970s and the clinical precision of the shred era.
The Charm of Imperfection
Lee began by discussing the influential “sloppy” style that defined the golden age of arena rock. Rather than using the term as a pejorative, Lee celebrated the looseness of legends like Jimmy Page, Joe Perry, and Ace Frehley.
“I love sloppy rock ‘n’ roll guitar players,” Lee admitted. “Jimmy Page, Joe Perry, Ace Frehley—they’re a little sloppy, but that’s a part of their charm. That speaks to me; it moves me.” To Lee, the slight unpredictability and “on-the-edge” feel of a Led Zeppelin or Aerosmith solo provides a human element that sterile, perfect takes often lack. This “fire” is what inspired a generation to pick up the instrument—not necessarily the desire to play a million notes, but the desire to convey a specific, gritty feeling.
The Technical Rare Breed
While Lee expressed his love for the feel-based players, he acknowledged the importance of technical proficiency. However, he argued that the rarest and most impressive guitarists are those who can bridge the gap between technical mastery and soulful intensity.
Lee pointed to Uli Jon Roth as his “ultimate example” of a player who possesses both the technical ability of a virtuoso and the raw, unbridled fire reminiscent of Johnny Winter. This rare combination, Lee suggests, is the pinnacle of guitar performance—where the speed is bolstered by a genuine, aggressive spirit.
The Malmsteen Paradox
The conversation inevitably turned toward Yngwie Malmsteen, a figure with whom Lee has had a public “war of words.” Lee was quick to clarify that his criticisms were never directed at Malmsteen’s talent. He placed Malmsteen in the same category as Roth in terms of soloing ability, calling him a “phenomenal guitar player” without hesitation.
“I’m not backtracking here,” Lee stated, though he couldn’t resist a playful jab at Malmsteen’s rhythm work, noting with a chuckle that he doesn’t think his rhythm playing is “all that great.”
The real point of contention for Lee remains Malmsteen’s reputation behind the scenes. “He’s an a**hole,” Lee said bluntly. He explained that his stance isn’t based on personal jealousy, but rather on the collective experiences of the industry. Lee cited numerous stories from former bandmates, technicians, and road crew members he has known over the decades.
To Lee, the “a**hole” label is a badge earned through years of interpersonal friction within the touring circuit. He even joked about the fallout of his honesty, mentioning a recent trip to the bar where his wife, Amy, works, shortly after his initial comments about Malmsteen went viral.
Ultimately, Jake E. Lee’s insights serve as a reminder that rock ‘n’ roll is as much about character and “vibe” as it is about scales and speed. Whether it’s the “sloppy” charm of Joe Perry or the polarizing brilliance of Yngwie Malmsteen, the guitar remains an instrument of personality.