🎸 The search for a guitarist to succeed the late, great Randy Rhoads in Ozzy Osbourne’s band was one of the most fraught decisions in early 80s rock. Following the tragedy in Leesburg, Florida, drummer Tommy Aldridge had a front-row seat to the whirlwind of temporary replacements—from Bernie Tormé to Night Ranger’s Brad Gillis. Once the dust settled, the choice came down to a select few, including the brilliant George Lynch and the eventual winner, Jake E. Lee.
😠 Lynch’s Misdirected Anger at the Drummer
Aldridge recently reflected on the chaotic period, revealing a surprising bit of backstage drama. George Lynch, already a groundbreaking and vital guitarist, was “heavy in that running,” according to Aldridge. However, when the job went to Jake E. Lee, Lynch was reportedly furious and believed Aldridge was responsible for the decision. “He was mad at me because he thought that I was responsible for Jake E. Lee becoming Ozzy’s guitar player rather than him,” Aldridge explained, clarifying that he had no such power to make personnel choices.
✨ The Originality Factor That Sealed the Deal
While Lynch was undeniably talented, Aldridge shed light on the qualities that tipped the scales in Jake E. Lee’s favor. The Prince of Darkness needed a guitarist who could pay appropriate homage to Rhoads’s legacy, but also bring their own spark. Aldridge felt Jake E. Lee struck that crucial balance.
“What I liked most about Jake E. Lee’s playing is that he was capable of playing Randy’s parts,” Aldridge noted. But more importantly, Lee possessed an aggressive, exuberant style coupled with profound originality. This originality, combined with a deep “reverence for Randy,” was the deciding factor. It wasn’t about who was better, but who brought the right blend of respect and innovation to fill the monumental shoes of a legend. The decision ultimately secured Jake E. Lee a place in rock history, while leaving George Lynch with a lingering, albeit misplaced, resentment towards the man behind the kit.