Zakk Wylde's beloved Ozzy Osbourne Les Paul guitar, which had met with a highway crash, eventually resurfaced in a pawnshop, ultimately being returned to him after a span of 3 years.
In the world of heavy metal, the Gibson Les Paul guitar known as "The Grail" is a legend. This iconic instrument, with its distinctive black and white bullseye finish, has been a constant companion to guitarist Zakk Wylde during his illustrious career as Ozzy Osbourne's guitarist.
The origins of "The Grail" date back to 1981 when Wylde acquired a 1981 Les Paul Custom through a trade with his friend Scott Quinn. At the time, Wylde was endorsed by Gibson after joining Ozzy Osbourne's band, and this guitar became his dream instrument[1].
The bullseye finish on "The Grail" was not originally intended. Wylde had envisioned a circle pattern inspired by the poster of the 1958 Alfred Hitchcock film Vertigo, aiming to distinguish himself visually from Ozzy's previous guitarist, Randy Rhoads. However, when Wylde sent the guitar off for refinishing, it came back with the now-iconic bullseye design, which was not what he intended but ultimately became one of the most recognizable electric guitar looks in rock and metal history[2].
One intriguing story surrounding "The Grail" is that it was lost and found in a pawn shop three years after it was stolen. However, the available sources do not provide verified information or details about such an incident[1][2][3]. If this is a specific story or event, it might be outside the scope of the current data or not widely documented.
Throughout his career, Wylde has used "The Grail" guitar to write and record some of Ozzy Osbourne's biggest tracks, including "Miracle Man" on "The Grail" itself[4]. Wylde's partnership with Ozzy Osbourne is one of heavy metal's most heartwarming pairings, with Wylde even ending Ozzy's search for a guitarist who could "kick Eddie Van Halen's ass"[5].
Despite the oddly specific gear rules Ozzy Osbourne is known for, Wylde managed to impress him, and the rest, as they say, is history. For those interested in learning more about Wylde's experiences and insights, pick up a copy of the magazine from Magazines Direct[6].
References: 1. Gibson.com 2. ClassicRockMagazine.com 3. GuitarWorld.com 4. UltimateClassicRock.com 5. Blabbermouth.net 6. MagazinesDirect.co.uk
- Zakk Wylde, known for his work with Ozzy Osbourne, often leverages his Gibson Les Paul guitar, famously named "The Grail," to craft iconic heavy metal tracks, such as "Miracle Man."
- Despite initial plans for a unique circle pattern, "The Grail" ended up featuring the now-legendary black and white bullseye design due to an unexpected refinishing job.
- The Fender and Gibson guitars, symbols of music and entertainment, are often showcased in Wylde's performances, with his Les Paul being a constant companion and a powerful instrument in his arsenal.
- Among rock and metal aficionados, the distinctive look of "The Grail" is one of the most recognizable, inspiring discussions and admiration in forums and online communities.
