Few guitarists exude as much intensity on stage as Zakk Wylde. At 58 years old, he has spent decades touring alongside Ozzy Osbourne and with his own band, Black Label Society. Yet, for him, the idea of retirement seems distant—unless his body forces him to stop.
In a recent interview, Wylde reflected on his lengthy career. Friends from the time he joined Ozzy’s band, between 1987 and 1988, were already surprised to see him still touring. Many colleagues preferred stable jobs closer to home instead. However, Zakk does not envision a life away from performing.
He stated emphatically, “I love this, truly. I cannot imagine stopping as long as I have the strength to get on stage every night.” To him, music is not merely a job; it is something that gives meaning to his existence.
A Reference to the Stones and the Eternal Spirit of Rock
To illustrate his viewpoint, Wylde compared his journey to that of bands like the Rolling Stones. He mentioned Keith Richards, who always responds to questions regarding retirement with another question: “Retire from what?” For Zakk, this mentality perfectly encapsulates the sentiment of those who live for music: if playing brings joy, there is no reason to step away.
According to the guitarist, there is only one real limit: when the body can no longer respond. “It’s like in sports. There comes a time when you can no longer play at the same level as before. But until then, you keep on going.”
A Look at Masters Who Continue to Rock
Wylde also recalled other musicians who continue to shine after decades, such as Al Di Meola and John McLaughlin. For him, these examples confirm that music does not have an expiration date. “They perform because they love it. It’s the same feeling I experience every night when I pick up my guitar.”
Reflecting on his own history, he mentioned the music video for Miracle Man, which was recorded in 1988. “I look at that and it feels like it was just yesterday. Almost 40 years have passed, but I don’t feel that different.”
The Legacy of Ozzy and the Connection to the Past
Despite the pain of watching Ozzy, his greatest mentor and friend, step back from the stage, Zakk emphasizes that this connection still inspires him. Revisiting albums like Black Sabbath Vol. 4 feels for him like opening a book filled with vivid memories that do not age with time.
With the same enthusiasm, he compares listening to Jimmy Page or Tony Iommi to savoring something simple and timeless, such as a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. “The taste remains the same, regardless of age. That’s how I feel when I play.”
Music as a Phase That Never Ends
The only situation in which Wylde would consider retirement would be if he could no longer physically perform at a high level. Outside that possibility, he believes he will always find a way to stay connected to the world of music.
“I am truly blessed to be able to do this every night,” he stated. With this mindset, Zakk demonstrates that his passion remains alive, reaffirming that for those who love music, there is no finish line.
