The Prince of Darkness is back in the spotlight with a powerful new release. On Friday, February 14th, legendary heavy metal frontman Ozzy Osbourne unveiled a brand-new single titled “Gods of Rock N Roll”, a re-recorded and reimagined version of the 2015 track “Gods” that originally appeared on guitarist Billy Morrison’s solo album God Shaped Hole.
This updated version arrives with fresh energy and an expanded arrangement, serving as a tribute to rock’s enduring legacy while also showcasing Osbourne’s timeless influence as one of the genre’s most iconic voices.
A Reunion Nearly a Decade in the Making
The collaboration between Osbourne and Morrison is not entirely new. Back in 2015, Morrison—best known as longtime guitarist for Billy Idol—released God Shaped Hole, an album that featured an eclectic mix of rock and alternative influences. One of its highlights was the song “Gods,” co-written by Ozzy Osbourne and featuring his unmistakable vocals.
Fast forward nearly a decade later, Morrison decided to revisit the track for his most recent project. The result is “Gods of Rock N Roll,” a bigger, more theatrical rendition of the song that fuses heavy guitar riffs with an orchestral backing, creating a dramatic soundscape that elevates the track to new heights.
“We always felt that song had more to say,” Morrison said in a recent statement. “Ozzy’s voice gave it such character back in 2015, but when the opportunity came to rework it with fresh ideas and new instrumentation, it just made sense to bring him back. He’s the Prince of Darkness for a reason—nobody else could sing this track the way he does.”
Steve Stevens Joins the Lineup
The re-recording also features the fiery guitar work of Steve Stevens, Billy Idol’s longtime collaborator and one of rock’s most distinctive guitarists. Known for his innovative playing style that blends shredding technique with flamenco-inspired flourishes, Stevens adds a fresh layer of sonic intensity to the song.
The updated version builds on the original’s heavy groove but expands it with Stevens’ trademark guitar runs and a sweeping orchestral arrangement that underscores the song’s anthemic chorus. Together, the elements turn “Gods of Rock N Roll” into a massive wall of sound—part stadium rock, part symphonic metal, and all attitude.
Release Timeline
The single dropped this Friday, February 14th, across major digital platforms, serving as an advance taste of what’s to come from Morrison’s latest musical venture. The track will appear on the deluxe edition of Morrison’s 2024 album, The Morrison Project, which is set to be released digitally on February 21st. A vinyl edition of the deluxe set will follow on March 7th, offering fans a physical keepsake of the collaboration.
The deluxe edition includes additional bonus material, including re-recorded tracks, unreleased demos, and collaborations with other notable musicians from the rock and alternative worlds. For Morrison, the album represents both a celebration of his creative partnerships and a bold step forward in showcasing his range as a guitarist and songwriter.
Ozzy’s Ongoing Legacy
For Ozzy Osbourne, this release marks another exciting chapter in a career that has spanned more than five decades. Even as health challenges in recent years have forced him to scale back touring, Osbourne has remained musically active. His 2020 album Ordinary Man and its 2022 follow-up Patient Number 9 earned critical acclaim, proving that his voice and songwriting still resonate powerfully with fans.
Revisiting “Gods of Rock N Roll” allowed Osbourne to reconnect with Morrison, a close friend and trusted collaborator, while also stepping once more into the spotlight as a vocal force.
“Working with Billy again felt natural,” Osbourne shared in a brief statement. “We’ve always had good chemistry, and this song is just pure rock ’n’ roll. It’s got that energy that keeps me going, even after all these years.”
A Testament to Rock’s Staying Power
At its core, “Gods of Rock N Roll” is more than just a re-recording—it’s a celebration of the genre itself. The track’s lyrics, originally penned nearly a decade ago, honor the larger-than-life figures who shaped rock music and continue to inspire generations of fans. With the new orchestral arrangement and Stevens’ dynamic guitar contributions, the reimagined version feels like both a tribute to rock’s history and a rallying cry for its future.
Morrison has emphasized that the song’s release is about keeping the spirit of rock alive at a time when the music industry is shifting rapidly. “Rock will never die,” Morrison said. “As long as artists like Ozzy are still out there giving it everything, there will always be a place for this kind of music.”
Looking Ahead
With the single now out, anticipation is high for the full deluxe edition of The Morrison Project. Fans eager to hear more of Morrison’s collaborations—and to own a vinyl edition of the album—won’t have to wait long. The digital release arrives February 21st, followed by the vinyl drop on March 7th.
As for Osbourne, “Gods of Rock N Roll” reinforces that his influence remains undiminished. Even as he continues to balance health concerns with creative output, his voice still carries the same haunting power that first made him a star with Black Sabbath in the early 1970s.
For rock fans, the song is a reminder of why Ozzy remains one of music’s most enduring icons: a voice of rebellion, resilience, and raw power. And for Billy Morrison, it is proof that his latest project is not just a solo effort but a collaborative celebration of the music that continues to define generations.
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