Robert Trujillo & 4 Other Musicians Who Were Once In Ozzy Osbourne’s Backing Band

Bassist Robert Trujillo celebrates his birthday today (October 23), and while he’s best known now for his tenure in Metallica, Trujillo is one of many talented musicians who’ve been a member of Ozzy Osbourne’s backing band.

In honor of Trujillo’s birthday, let’s take a look at some of the biggest names that worked with “The Prince of Darkness.”

Trujillo played on Osbourne’s 2001 album Down to Earth and would later join Metallica in 2003.  However, before his stint with Osbourne, Trujillo was a member of Suicidal Tendencies from 1989-1996.  (Fun fact:  Trujillo also played bass on Jerry Cantrell’s 2002 solo LPs Degradation Trip and Degradation Trip Volumes 1& 2.)

Speaking of Cantrell, the AIC guitarist lent his talents to Osbourne’s 2005 covers album appropriately titled Under Cover.

And the segues just keep coming!  When Alice in Chains was in need of a new bassist after Mike Starr’s departure, they recruited Mike Inez, who played bass for Osbourne from 1989-1993.

Sarzo played in Osbourne’s touring band for two years (1981-1982) after being recommended by Randy Rhoads, who knew Sarzo during their time in Quiet Riot.  Sarzo, of course, would go on to play in a number of bands including Whitesnake and Dio.

Last, but certainly not least, is Osbourne’s longest-tenured guitarist Zakk Wylde.  Wylde’s appeared on five Osbourne LPs and is currently reunited (and, we assume, feeling so good) with his former boss on his current solo tour.

Erica Banas is a rock/classic rock blogger that loves the smell of old vinyl in the morning.