Black Label Society frontman and guitar virtuoso Zakk Wylde has never been one to hold back, and his latest wide-ranging interview proves it. In a fast-paced, fun-filled conversation with Louder, the metal legend reflects on his new BLS album Engines of Demolition, heartfelt tributes to Ozzy Osbourne, his love for strong coffee and spicy food, and the enduring passion that keeps him shredding after decades in the industry.
The discussion kicks off with excitement around Engines of Demolition, BLS’s latest release. When asked if it’s thrilling to put out new music, Wylde doesn’t miss a beat with his signature humor: “Oh, for sure! Of all the Black Label Society albums… this is the next one! That’s why it’s special! Ha ha ha!” He doubles down on his relentless enthusiasm, drawing inspiration from Keith Richards: “I remember reading an interview with Keith Richards and they said to him, ‘Do you think you’ll ever retire?’ and he goes, ‘Retire from what? Reading a good book? Having a cup of coffee?’ Why would you retire from this? It’s a good analogy from Keith. He loves playing music, what would he retire from this for?”
One of the album’s standout tracks is the emotional closer Ozzy’s Song, a tribute to his longtime mentor Ozzy Osbourne. Wylde reveals the personal story behind it: “Yeah, I already had the music written before he passed, but after we put Ozzy to rest, I went home and wrote the lyrics. Obviously, I wouldn’t have wrote it if Oz hadn’t passed, but I kept playing it to my wife and she just kept referencing it – ‘Put Ozzy’s song on.’ So, I just ended up calling it Ozzy’s Song.”
Reflecting on Ozzy’s influence, Wylde shares a classic anecdote about the Prince of Darkness’s vocal prowess on Black Sabbath’s Sabotage: “I asked Ozzy if he was having vocal lessons back then, and he said, ‘No, Zakk. Just lots of alcohol and drugs.’ Ha ha ha! I guess those are the steroids of rock’n’roll!” The quote perfectly captures the wild spirit of their shared history and Ozzy’s larger-than-life persona.
Away from the music, Wylde dives into his entrepreneurial side. He’s got his own Death Wish Coffee blend called Valhalla Java Odinforce, which he takes black and strong: “Straight up, man. I can’t drink it with cream and sugar… I like the espresso taste; I like it bitter!” He compares it to a serious kick: “Oh yeah, it’s like putting a shot of espresso in your coffee.”
On his Berserker Hot Sauce line, Wylde knows his limits: “Well, there’s ‘hot’ and then there’s ‘burn the top of your oesophagus’. I like it kinda mellow; I want to be able to taste the food. But I got buddies who will not be satisfied until you have to take them to the hospital after they eat. I’m talking molten lava, bro!” He also touches on lighter moments, like attempting to convert actor Mark Wahlberg to metal during a Hollywood encounter.
At 59, Zakk Wylde continues to embody the high-energy, no-holds-barred ethos that made him a guitar hero with Ozzy and a force with Black Label Society. Whether he’s paying tribute to fallen icons, pushing his latest album, or perfecting his hot sauce tolerance, Wylde’s larger-than-life personality and dedication to heavy music remain undimmed. Fans can expect the same blistering riffs and heartfelt moments that have defined his career for over three decades.
