Get ready to dive into the emotional and creative journey behind BLACK LABEL SOCIETY’s latest album, Engines of Demolition, and the heartfelt tribute to the legendary Ozzy Osbourne. But here’s where it gets controversial: Was the five-year gap between albums a deliberate choice or a byproduct of Zakk Wylde’s relentless touring schedule? Let’s explore.
During a candid Q&A session at London’s HMV store on Oxford Street, Zakk Wylde opened up about the band’s upcoming release, Engines of Demolition, set to drop on March 27 via MNRK Heavy. This 15-track album, a follow-up to 2021’s Doom Crew Inc., features four previously released singles—Name in Blood, Broken and Blind, The Gallows, and Lord Humungus—alongside a deeply personal track titled Ozzy’s Song. This song is a touching homage to Wylde’s longtime collaborator and friend, the iconic BLACK SABBATH frontman, Ozzy Osbourne. When asked about the inspiration behind Ozzy’s Song, Wylde revealed that the music came first, but the lyrics were a labor of love, penned after Ozzy’s passing. And this is the part most people miss: Wylde’s emotional state during this period profoundly influenced the song’s creation, as he reflected on their shared memories and Ozzy’s indomitable spirit.
Wylde recounted the emotional rollercoaster following Ozzy’s death, from performing with PANTERA to laying Ozzy to rest in the U.K. It was during this time, while surrounded by Ozzy’s books in his library room, that the lyrics for Ozzy’s Song flowed naturally. This poignant moment highlights how grief can fuel creativity, a theme that resonates deeply with fans and artists alike.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: Why did it take five years for BLACK LABEL SOCIETY to release a new album? Wylde explained that the delay was due to his commitment to the PANTERA celebration tour, which spanned over a year. He emphasized the importance of giving the album the attention it deserves, stating, ‘There’s no sense of putting the album out if I’m not gonna be able to give it any TLC [tender loving care].’ This raises a thought-provoking question: In today’s fast-paced music industry, is it better to prioritize quality over quantity, even if it means longer waits for fans?
The songwriting process for Engines of Demolition took place at Wylde’s home studio, the Black Vatican, where he finds inspiration in the familiar surroundings. He shared insights into his creative process, noting how different instruments evoke distinct moods. For instance, playing an acoustic guitar or piano often leads to more reflective, mellow compositions, while an electric guitar plugged into a practice amp sparks riff-oriented, heavy tracks. This duality in his approach showcases Wylde’s versatility as a musician and songwriter.
Wylde’s journey with BLACK LABEL SOCIETY, which he formed in 1998, has been intertwined with his work alongside Ozzy Osbourne. Since joining Ozzy’s band in 1987, Wylde has played on nearly all of the singer’s solo albums, except for 2020’s Ordinary Man. Their bond went beyond music; Wylde described Ozzy as ‘almost like an older brother,’ someone he could turn to for advice despite their 20-year age gap.
In a 2025 interview with the Los Angeles Times, Wylde reflected on Ozzy’s final performance at the Back to the Beginning concert in Birmingham. He admitted he never thought it would be their last show together, emphasizing Ozzy’s resilience and determination. Here’s a bold interpretation: Ozzy’s ability to perform despite his health struggles was a testament to his unyielding spirit, a quality that inspired Wylde and countless others.
Ozzy’s passing on July 22, 2025, due to a heart attack, left a void in the music world. His private funeral, held on July 31 at his Buckinghamshire estate, was attended by close friends and family, including Wylde and other music icons. The day before, thousands of fans gathered in Birmingham to pay their respects, a testament to Ozzy’s enduring legacy.
As we anticipate Engines of Demolition, it’s clear that this album is more than just a collection of songs—it’s a tribute to friendship, resilience, and the power of music to heal. But here’s the question for you: How do you think Ozzy’s legacy will continue to influence future generations of musicians? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
BLACK LABEL SOCIETY lineup:
- Zakk Wylde - vocals, guitar, piano
- John ‘JD’ DeServio - bass
- Jeff Fabb - drums
- Dario Lorina - guitar
Photo credit: Justin H. Reich
