King Diamond has officially announced that guitarist Gus G. (Firewind, ex-Ozzy Osbourne) has joined the band’s lineup.
Going forward, Gus G. will compose, record, and tour with King Diamond, beginning a new chapter for the legendary heavy metal outfit.
At the same time, the band paid tribute to longtime guitarist Andy LaRocque, thanking him for his four decades of contributions to King Diamond.
“It’s a big honor for me to welcome Gus G. as our new guitarist,” King Diamond said. “Gus will still continue with all his current projects, Firewind, solo project, etc. No restrictions, just careful planning. We are already working with Gus and I simply can’t wait for you to hear all the new KING DIAMOND music with him playing guitar on it! STAY HEAVY.”
LaRocque joined King Diamond in the mid-1980s and has been a key part of the band’s signature sound, contributing to classic albums including Abigail, Them, Conspiracy, and many more.
Gus G. is best known as the founder of Firewind and for serving as Ozzy Osbourne’s lead guitarist from 2009 through 2017, appearing on the 2010 album Scream. In addition to his work with Firewind, he has released multiple solo albums and collaborated with artists including Bruce Dickinson, Arch Enemy, Doro Pesch, and In This Moment.
According to the band, King Diamond and Gus G. are already working together on new material, with more announcements expected in the future.
Photo by Akis Douzlatzis
