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Zakk Wylde

Zakk Wylde is an American musician best known as Ozzy Osbourne’s longtime lead guitarist and as the founder, lead guitarist, lead singer, songwriter, and producer of Black Label Society.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Zakk Wylde is an American musician best known as Ozzy Osbourne’s longtime lead guitarist and as the founder, lead guitarist, lead singer, songwriter, and producer of Black Label Society. Born Jeffrey Phillip Wielandt, he is also known for his work with Pride & Glory, his solo albums, and his later role as a touring guitarist for Pantera.

Early life

Zakk Wylde was born Jeffrey Phillip Wielandt on January 14, 1967, in Bayonne, New Jersey. He began playing guitar before his professional career took off, and 1985 is identified as the start of his active music career.

Career with Ozzy Osbourne

Wylde is best known for his long association with Ozzy Osbourne as lead guitarist. He became one of Osbourne’s signature collaborators and a major figure in heavy metal guitar playing.

Black Label Society and other projects

Wylde founded Black Label Society, where he performs as lead guitarist, singer, songwriter, and producer. He has also worked with Pride & Glory, releasing one studio album, and has released solo albums including Book of Shadows and Book of Shadows II.

Style and recognition

Wylde is noted for a distinctive heavy metal guitar style and a recognizable visual image, including his bullseye-themed guitars. His playing and songwriting have made him an influential figure in rock and metal.

Key facts

  • Zakk Wylde was born Jeffrey Phillip Wielandt on January 14, 1967, in Bayonne, New Jersey.
  • He is best known as Ozzy Osbourne's lead guitarist.
  • He founded Black Label Society and serves as its lead guitarist and vocalist.
  • He released solo albums Book of Shadows and Book of Shadows II.
  • He has been a touring guitarist for Pantera since 2022.
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Canadian context

Zakk Wylde is relevant to Canadian rock and metal audiences through extensive touring, international heavy metal fan culture, and his association with major acts that regularly perform in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Zakk Wylde?
Zakk Wylde is an American guitarist, singer, songwriter, and producer best known for playing with Ozzy Osbourne and leading Black Label Society.
What is Zakk Wylde’s real name?
His birth name is Jeffrey Phillip Wielandt.
When was Zakk Wylde born?
He was born on January 14, 1967.
What bands has Zakk Wylde been in?
He is best known for Ozzy Osbourne’s band, Black Label Society, and Pride & Glory; he has also worked with Pantera as a touring guitarist.
What solo albums has Zakk Wylde released?
The results identify Book of Shadows and Book of Shadows II as his solo albums.
What is Zakk Wylde known for musically?
He is known for heavy metal guitar work, especially his long-running association with Ozzy Osbourne and his leadership of Black Label Society.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zakk_Wylde
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, birthplace, nationality, and primary career summary.
  2. Wikipedia — https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zakk_Wylde
    Supports: Black Label Society, Pride & Glory, solo albums, and occupation details.
  3. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0943711/
    Supports: Birth date, birthplace, and marriage/family details.
  4. Wikipedia — https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zakk_Wylde
    Supports: Black Label Society, Ozzy Osbourne association, and Pantera touring guitarist role.
  5. Wikipedia — https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zakk_Wylde
    Supports: Instrument list, years active, and Ozzy Osbourne tenure.