Shred Guitarist Auditioned for Ozzy Before Zakk’s Arrival

Between 1983 and 1987, guitarist Jake E. Lee played a pivotal role in Ozzy Osbourne’s band, and following his departure, Ozzy—alongside his wife and manager Sharon Osbourne—embarked on a thorough search for a worthy successor. This search included many notable guitarists, among whom was Chris Impellitteri, the founder of the band Impellitteri. In a recent interview with Guitar World, this esteemed neo-classical shred guitarist shared insights into the circumstances surrounding his audition, as well as the reasons he ultimately declined the opportunity.

In discussing the audition process, Impellitteri recounted receiving a call from the Osbournes during the transitional period between Lee’s exit and Zakk Wylde stepping in to fill the role (sometime in 1987). He reminisced about this unexpected moment, saying, “Let me not exaggerate . . . because it’s been so many years.” Impellitteri recalled that he was living with roommates at the time and had just returned from a rehearsal when he received the life-changing message:

“This is Sharon Osbourne. Me and Ozzy have been checking you out, and we really love your guitar playing. We want you to come down and audition.”

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Understanding the Reasons Behind Impellitteri’s Decision Not to Join Ozzy

While Impellitteri was genuinely honored by the interest shown by the Osbournes, and he did attend the audition, he was acutely aware that his recent contract with a record label would hinder his ability to officially join Ozzy’s band. He elaborated on this by stating, “I talked to Sharon, and I think Ozzy, probably three to five times. There was some back and forth.” The major issue was his prior commitment to Relativity Records, which was a point of frustration for his attorney, Peter Paterno, who questioned why he didn’t accept the opportunity when it was presented to him.

Despite never receiving a formal offer to join the band (he was only invited to “come down and play with them”), Impellitteri sensed that Ozzy and the team held a strong interest in him. After jamming a few songs with Ozzy, he ultimately decided to uphold his contract with Relativity, choosing instead to focus on his own musical endeavors. The decision reflects a commitment to his artistic vision and the importance of contractual obligations in the music industry.

As history unfolded, it became clear that both parties found success in their respective paths. Impellitteri speculated that had he joined Ozzy, he might have influenced the direction of Ozzy’s music. He commented, “If you listen to the new Impellitteri record, War Machine, I promise you that a lot of the stuff we do has elements of Randy Rhoads.”

He further contemplated the potential implications of his joining Ozzy: “Let’s say everything worked out with Ozzy, and I joined, right? I don’t think I would have wanted to do a record in the direction that he went with 1988’s No Rest for the Wicked.” He acknowledged the brilliance of Zakk Wylde and his contributions to Ozzy’s music while expressing a preference for a sound reminiscent of Blizzard of Ozz or Diary of a Madman. Impellitteri mused on whether his approach would have positively or negatively affected Ozzy’s trajectory during a time of significant change in the music landscape.

He concluded, “That change was orchestrated as the landscape was changing, and Ozzy, who was already big, became even bigger.”

Ultimately, both Chris Impellitteri and Ozzy Osbourne found their own paths to success, solidifying their places in rock history.

Exciting Developments: Impellitteri and Ozzy in 2024

In relation to his latest album, War Machine, released earlier this year through Frontiers Music SRL, Impellitteri collaborated with renowned drummer Paul Bostaph of Slayer fame. This album showcases the evolution of his sound while retaining the signature elements that fans have come to love. Meanwhile, Ozzy continues to captivate audiences, evidenced by his quirky plushie bat making it onto a list of 20 essential toys for children and parents who appreciate metal music. He has also hinted at a unique idea for a final reunion show with Black Sabbath, creating buzz among fans.