In a revealing new interview on the Talk Is Jericho podcast, guitarist Jake E. Lee has shared the chaotic details of his 1982 audition for Ozzy Osbourne, describing how a late arrival, technical mishaps, and a defiant attitude unexpectedly secured him the role—while abruptly ending George Lynch’s prospects.
Lee joined Osbourne’s band as the permanent replacement for Randy Rhoads, who tragically died in a plane crash earlier that year. Interim guitarists Bernie Tormé and Brad Gillis had filled in to complete the tour, but Osbourne sought a long-term successor. Lynch, already shadowing Gillis on the road, was a leading contender until bassist Dana Strum—credited with introducing Rhoads to Osbourne—recommended Lee and others for consideration.
Strum auditioned 10 guitarists at his studio, photographing them and recording short improvisations. Osbourne and manager Sharon Arden (later Osbourne) narrowed the field to three: Lee, Mitch Perry, and one other. At the time, Lee was working with Ronnie James Dio on a solo project, which nearly derailed his opportunity.
“Wendy Dio tried to prevent me from going,” Lee recalled. His equipment was locked in storage, and a roadie initially blocked access. After a tense exchange—”Are you gonna be the guy that stops me from auditioning for Ozzy Osbourne?”—Lee loaded his gear himself and arrived late.
Sharon Osbourne later told him his brusque demeanor worked in his favor. “You’re late. We just about walked out,” she said, to which Lee replied, “Well, I’m here now. Do you want me to play or not?” He performed “Crazy Train” and “I Don’t Know,” but admitted to mixing up parts after learning them overnight. Expecting rejection, he declined a requested solo like Van Halen’s “Eruption,” saying, “I don’t have anything prepared, and I’m not going to do it because I already fucked the songs up.”
Despite the errors, Osbourne was convinced. As Lee packed up, Lynch entered the room. Osbourne approached Lee and asked, “You want the gig?” before turning to Lynch: “He’s got it. You don’t. You’re fired.”
Lee described the moment as a stark display of Osbourne’s blunt style, noting Lynch was dismissed without playing a note on stage. The decision brought stability to the band, with Lee contributing to albums like Bark at the Moon (1983) and The Ultimate Sin (1986) before departing amid creative differences, including his interest in incorporating jazz elements. He was succeeded by Zakk Wylde.
Lee also reflected on reconciling with Osbourne years later at a “Back to the Beginning” event, marking the end of a strained relationship. The guitarist’s candid account highlights the unpredictable nature of rock auditions and Osbourne’s decisive management approach during a turbulent period.
