Guitarist Jake E. Lee‘s participation in Ozzy Osbourne‘s farewell concert appears to be a fitting choice, yet the musician disclosed to Guitar World that he hadn’t actually interacted with his former bandmate since leaving the group in 1987. What led to Jake E. Lee becoming involved in the monumental Ozzy and Black Sabbath Back to the Beginning show?

In an insightful conversation with Guitar World for their latest print issue, Lee shared that it was Tom Morello we have to credit for this remarkable musical reunion. The ex-guitarist of Rage Against the Machine, a long-time admirer of Black Sabbath, was entrusted with the role of musical director for the day-long event that honors Ozzy and Sabbath‘s enduring legacy. Morello was the key figure who reached out to Lee.

According to Lee, the last time he had any contact with Ozzy was during his exit from the band in 1987, after contributing to the 1983 album Bark at the Moon and its 1986 successor The Ultimate Sin.

“Tom Morello called me and said, ‘There’s going to be an original Sabbath performance along with Ozzy Osbourne‘s final performance. I can’t imagine this event occurring without Jake E. Lee being involved in some capacity,’” Lee recounted about the invitation he received from Morello to participate.

Reflecting on the highly anticipated show scheduled for July 5 at Villa Park in Birmingham, England, Lee expressed, “It’s exhilarating to be a part of it. Even more so, I’m excited to watch it unfold. I sincerely hope Ozzy can manage through it. I haven’t had any conversations with him or seen him in decades. I am uncertain of his current health condition, but he truly deserves a final farewell performance, regardless of how he’s feeling or how well his singing turns out. He has earned this farewell, and I am thrilled to contribute to it.”

Discovering Black Sabbath: Jake E. Lee’s Musical Journey

Long before he became a prominent member of Ozzy Osbourne‘s solo band, Jake E. Lee was just a teenager, embarking on his exploration of rock music. He reminisced, “At 13, I was newly introduced to the entire rock ‘n’ roll scene. My background was in classical piano, and I had a bit of a pretentious attitude. I thought rock ‘n’ roll was foolish. But then I encountered Jimi Hendrix‘s ‘Purple Haze.’”

He further noted that it wasn’t long before he stumbled upon Black Sabbath, whose sound struck a deep chord within him. “I have a passion for horror films, and the opening track [‘Black Sabbath’] felt like stepping into a horror movie. I wouldn’t say it scared me, but it was overwhelming. I had never experienced anything like that before.”

Continuing, he remarked, “The guitar just sounds sinister. The way he bends notes is slightly off-pitch, which enhances its appeal. I found those elements challenging and intriguing. It’s mind-boggling how he continuously produced memorable riffs!”

READ MORE: The Song Jake E. Lee Wants to Play at Ozzy’s Farewell Isn’t the One You Think

As a teenager, Lee listed Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, and Grand Funk Railroad as his top three favorite bands, stating, “Whenever I’m setting up my gear to achieve the right sound, I always play ‘War Pigs!’”

Exciting Details About the Back to the Beginning Concert

Set to be the musical highlight of 2025, Back to the Beginning marks the reunion of the original four members of Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward, performing together in their hometown of Birmingham, England, at the Villa Park venue on July 5.

The day will also feature a stellar lineup of musicians who will pay tribute to the metal legends and the iconic Ozzy Osbourne. Performances by Metallica, Slayer, Pantera, Gojira, Halestorm, Alice in Chains, Lamb of God, Anthrax, Mastodon, and Rival Sons will lead up to the monumental moment.

READ MORE: Why Tony Iommi Was Hesitant Over Black Sabbath Reunion Show

Other notable performances throughout the day will include Tom Morello, Billy Corgan, David Draiman, Duff McKagan, Fred Durst, Lzzy Hale, Jake E. Lee, Jonathan Davis, K.K. Downing, Mike Bordin, Papa V Perpetua, Rudy Sarzo, Sammy Hagar, Slash, Sleep Token II, Wolfgang Van Halen, Steven Tyler, Soundgarden, Andrew Watt, Chad Smith, Vernon Reid, Whitfield Crane, and David Ellefson. In addition, actor Jason Momoa will host this day-long spectacular.

Fans globally will have the opportunity to witness the entire metal community uniting to celebrate Ozzy Osbourne’s legacy, broadcasted live from Birmingham’s Villa Park. Ozzy himself will perform a brief set before joining his Black Sabbath bandmates for one last unforgettable performance.

A pay-per-view Back to the Beginning global livestream is now available, allowing fans to access this historic moment. The raw livestream is set to commence at 3 PM BST on July 5, and those who purchase access will have exclusive viewing rights for an additional 48 hours to enjoy the concert in its entirety.

Tickets for the livestream are currently available for purchase through the official Back to the Beginning website.