Jake E. Lee joined Ozzy Osbourne’s band in 1982 after the tragic death of Randy Rhoads. Lee played on Ozzy’s albums “Bark at the Moon” (1983) and “The Ultimate Sin” (1986). His guitar work was integral to the sound of these albums. “Bark at the Moon” was a commercial success and featured hit singles like the title track.
Without Jake E. Lee, Ozzy Osbourne’s music in the mid-1980s might have sounded quite different. Lee’s guitar playing added a distinct flavor to Ozzy’s post-Randy Rhoads era. Ozzy Osbourne had already established himself as a heavy metal icon with Black Sabbath and his solo career was bolstered by collaborations with talented musicians like Randy Rhoads and Jake E. Lee.
Conversely, without Ozzy Osbourne, Jake E. Lee might not have had the platform to gain the level of exposure he did. Playing for Ozzy was a significant part of Lee’s career, allowing him to showcase his skills to a broad audience. After leaving Ozzy’s band in 1987, Jake E. Lee went on to form Badlands with vocalist Ray Gillen.
Both Ozzy Osbourne and Jake E. Lee have left marks on the heavy metal genre. Ozzy remains one of the “Princes of Darkness,” and Jake E. Lee is remembered for his contributions to some of Ozzy’s most popular works. The music of Ozzy Osbourne, with guitarists like Jake E. Lee, has influenced countless bands and musicians.
