Former Ozzy Osbourne guitarist Jake E. Lee has shed light on the circumstances behind his slightly out-of-tune guitar performance at the singer’s final show in Birmingham, England. In a new interview, Lee revealed that the technical glitch was the result of a chaotic backstage situation, but ultimately paled in comparison to the overwhelming emotion of the moment.
The historic event, which was part of the “Back to the Beginning” celebration in July, saw Lee perform with Osbourne for the first time in 38 years. He joined an all-star lineup that included Nuno Bettencourt, Mike Bordin, and David Ellefson to perform Ozzy‘s tracks “The Ultimate Sin” and “Shot in the Dark.”
Lee recounted the events leading up to his entrance to Guitar.com, explaining that he was kept waiting backstage with no clear instructions on when he was supposed to go on. He was then led to the wrong side of the stage, preventing him from properly tuning his instrument.
“I was backstage, and I knew my guitar needed tuning. And I kept saying, ‘Where’s the rest of the band? Shouldn’t I be out there?’ But they said, ‘No, we’re not ready for you?'” Lee explained. He added that the confusion continued when he was directed to the wrong side of the stage. “They led me to stage right, and I said, ‘Shouldn’t I be stage left? I’m playing over there…’ But they said, ‘No, you’ve got to go this way…'”
Despite the technical issues, the guitarist’s entrance was met with a hero’s welcome. The crowd erupted into chants of his name, and fellow musicians, including Lzzy Hale and Nuno Bettencourt, bowed and embraced him. This heartfelt reception, Lee said, completely overshadowed any minor flaws in his playing. He admitted that his performance may not have been his best, but the moment was far more significant than a flawless take.
“The crowd was chanting my name. It was overwhelming. I’m surprised I didn’t trip and fall down! But because of all that, I was a little out of tune – but it was worth it. To have that introduction and reaction was good for my soul.”
“And then, with ‘Shot in the Dark‘, we rehearsed it a certain way, but I think David got a little excited and jumped ahead. So I didn’t get to do my cool harmony at the beginning, but that’s okay! Did I play my best? Maybe not. Was I in tune? Maybe not. Was it fantastic and amazing? Absolutely.”
The performance served as a form of reconciliation for Lee and Ozzy, who had not been in contact for decades following Lee’s departure from the band in 1987. The gesture, initiated by producer Tom Morello, gave the two a chance to reconnect and celebrate the legacy they created together.
