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Zakk Wylde says performing classic songs connected to Ozzy Osbourne has taken on deeper meaning during his current tour.
Wylde is currently on the road with both of his projects — Black Label Society and Zakk Sabbath — performing shows across North America. The tour, which launched in early March, blends material from Wylde’s original band with songs made famous by Black Sabbath.
According to Wylde, the atmosphere at these concerts has become especially emotional for fans since Osbourne’s passing. Many in the crowd have been chanting the singer’s name during performances.
“It’s pretty awesome,” Wylde said of the fan reaction. “People are chanting Ozzy’s name at every show. His energy is still there — it feels like we’re celebrating his life and everything he meant to music.”
Wylde explained that performing these songs reminds him how deeply they resonate with listeners.
“You realize how many people have memories tied to these songs,” he said. “The music means something to them — it inspires them. It’s got a special place in their lives.”
The guitarist compared the experience to playing material originally written with late Ozzy guitarist Randy Rhoads, saying those performances always felt like a way to honor Rhoads’ legacy as well.
During a recent stop in Denver, Black Label Society paid tribute to Osbourne in a particularly notable way. The band performed “No More Tears,” marking the first time the group had played the Ozzy classic live since 2001.
The tour comes as Black Label Society prepares to release its upcoming album, Engines of Demolition, arriving March 27. Wylde said the record developed gradually after the band began writing ideas several years ago.
“Usually when we make a Black Label record, it’s just an explosion of ideas and then it’s done,” he explained. “But this one started a few years ago — we got together and recorded a bunch of material and kept building from there.”
One track on the album carries special emotional weight for Wylde. The guitarist wrote the song shortly after Osbourne’s death.
“When we got off the road and laid Ozzy to rest, I went home and sat in our little library room,” Wylde recalled. “There was a book about Ozzy sitting there. I had my headphones on, it was probably one in the morning, and I just started writing.”
Wylde said the song ultimately became a tribute not only to Osbourne but to anyone grieving the loss of someone close.
“If the song connects with someone who lost a parent or someone they love, then that’s what matters,” he said. “If they hear it and feel like the lyrics are speaking to them — that’s everything.”
Black Label Society’s North American tour continues through mid-May.
SOURCE: Ultimate Classic Rock