Amir Derakh: The Guitarist who Almost Joined Ozzy Osbourne’s Legacy
While Amir derakh might not be a name that instantly rings a bell for everyone, his contributions to the music scene are far-reaching and significant.
Having taken over from Craig Goldy in the glam metal outfit Rough Cutt, Derakh showcased his unique guitar synth skills with the industrial rock band Orgy and even lent his talents to the late chester Bennington of Linkin park.
The Ozzy Osbourne Audition: A Close Call
In a twist of fate, Derakh was on the verge of becoming Ozzy Osbourne’s guitarist, only to see the prospect slip away to none other than Zakk Wylde.
Reflecting on the audition process, Derakh shared with Guitar World, “Phil Soussan and Randy Castillo were my champions, which helped me bypass much of the typical audition drama.”
“They had sifted through numerous guitarists, but zakk Wylde stood out among the few they were considering.”
facing the Pressure
During what must have been an incredibly intense audition,Derakh was tasked with performing some of Ozzy’s moast iconic tracks,including “Crazy Train,” “Bark at the Moon,” “Shot in the Dark,” and “Over the Mountain.” He recalls, “I’m not one for finger-tapping, so I decided to tackle those songs with one hand.Ozzy seemed genuinely impressed with my performance.”
(Image credit: Noel Vasquez/Getty Images)
A Surreal Experience
Derakh describes the experience as surreal, especially given his admiration for Randy Rhoads. “I got my ear pierced when Randy passed away and even acquired a guitar similar to his. So, to be in a position to play with Ozzy was beyond my wildest dreams.”
However, he candidly admits that something felt off.”Deep down,I sensed it wasn’t the right fit for me. When they asked for an impromptu solo, I realized I wasn’t adequately prepared.”
The Outcome and Its Implications
How did Ozzy and his team deliver the news? “It was something along the lines of, ‘Ozzy really likes you…’ I had a feeling Zakk was going to get the gig. I ran into him at the Rainbow in West Hollywood and told him,’You’re going to land it.’ He brushed it off, saying, ‘No, no, no…’”
Derakh identifies a couple of factors that may have influenced the decision. “Firstly, my connection to Wendy Dio, who managed Rough Cutt, might have complex things for them. Secondly, I wasn’t a complete unknown, and they seemed to prefer fresh faces.”
Looking Ahead
For more insights from Derakh,along with exclusive interviews featuring Alex Lifeson,Geddy Lee,and Gus G,be sure to check out issue 605 of Guitar World,available at Magazines Direct.
In related news, it appears that a biopic about Ozzy Osbourne is officially in the works, as confirmed by his son, Jack Osbourne.
