If there is one name that stands out in the world of heavy metal, southern metal, hard rock, groove metal, and southern rock, it is Zakk Wylde. A celebrated multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, singer, producer, and occasional actor, Wylde rose to fame through his influential role as lead guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne. His deep knowledge and skill in music eventually led him to form the heavy metal band Black Label Society, further cementing his legacy. Over the years, he's been part of numerous collaborations and has released several solo projects.
Born Jeffrey Phillip Wielandt on January 14, 1967, in Bayonne, New Jersey, Zakk Wylde was raised in the same state. He graduated in 1985 from Jackson Memorial High School. From an early age, Wylde displayed a strong inclination toward music, though he initially didn’t pursue it seriously. In interviews, he has spoken about his passion for playing guitar since childhood, often practicing for up to 12 hours a day while still in school. Though he first picked up a guitar at age 8, he began dedicating himself to mastering the instrument around the age of 14. His early performances in New Jersey, particularly in the Silverton section at Silverton Music, marked the beginning of his musical career.
Zakk Wylde is married to Barbaranne Wylde, and together they have four children: Hayley Rae, Sabbath Page, Jesse, and Hendrix. Despite his hectic touring and recording schedule, Wylde is known to be a devoted family man, often referencing his family as a source of strength and inspiration in his life and work.
One of the most recognizable visual trademarks associated with Zakk Wylde is the bull’s-eye pattern on his guitars. This design originally stemmed from a custom order he placed, intending it to be a spiral motif to distinguish himself from fellow guitarist Randy Rhoads. However, due to a misinterpretation during production, the resulting bull’s-eye design became a permanent fixture of Wylde’s stage image. He embraced the accidental pattern, and it has since served as a visual symbol of his identity in heavy metal.
Among Wylde’s most iconic instruments is the GMW RR-V model, famously adorned with polka dots and a V-shaped body. Though critics have occasionally claimed similarities to designs by Twisted Sister guitarist Eddie Ojeda, Wylde has consistently stated that any resemblances are purely coincidental.
Zakk Wylde’s career-defining opportunity came when he joined Ozzy Osbourne as lead guitarist in the late 1980s. His aggressive style, technical skill, and stage presence quickly made him a standout figure in the world of heavy metal. Through several albums and tours with Osbourne, Wylde helped shape the band's sound post-Randy Rhoads, earning respect from both fans and fellow musicians.
| Birth Date: | 14 Jan, 1967 |
| Age: | 53 yrs |
| Citizenship: | United States of America |
| Birth Place: | Bayonne |
| Gender: | Male |
| Description: | American musician |
| Twitter Id: | ZakkWyldeBLS |
| Net Worth 2021: | 16 million |
