Black Label Society Releases New Single "The Gallows"
A High-Energy Preview of Upcoming Album
Black Label Society, the heavy metal band founded by guitarist and vocalist Zakk Wylde, has released a new single titled "The Gallows." The song is a high-energy, riff-based track that promises to deliver the same caliber of heavy riffs that fans have come to expect from the band.
The release of "The Gallows" comes as part of a busy year for Wylde, who has been touring extensively with both Pantera and his Black Sabbath tribute band, Zakk Sabbath. According to Wylde, the song is a precursor to the band’s next album, which is still in the works.
The Inspiration Behind "The Gallows"
In an interview with Ultimate Classic Rock, Wylde discussed the inspiration behind "The Gallows." The song, he explained, was born out of his powerlifting workouts and his admiration for fitness guru Richard Simmons. "You know, if it needs to be a high caloric burning riff, that’s what it will become, it’s all based on that," Wylde said. "It’s all based on my powerlifting guru and life coach, Richard Simmons, the legend," he added with a humorous tone.
Touring and Upcoming Projects
Wylde also revealed that fans can expect a busy 2025, with the band set to tour extensively in support of the Pantera celebration. "I think in 2025, we’re going to be doing [more tour dates] with the Pantera celebration and I’ll be doing some Zakk Sabbath stuff as well," he said. Additionally, Wylde confirmed that Black Label Society will be releasing their next album in 2026, although no official release date has been announced.
Celebrating 25 Years of Black Label Society
As the band celebrates its 25th anniversary, Wylde reflected on the band’s early days, working with Ozzy Osbourne, and how the band’s approach to songwriting has evolved over the years. "To me, it just sucks the living life out of them when you have a brand new song. I understand it fully, because it’s studio time, you want to get in there, knock it out and get out of there without being in there for a week to record half a song," he explained. "But at the same time, the way we make the Black Label [songs], whether it’s ‘Stillborn,’ ‘Suicide Messiah’ or the new one, ‘The Gallows,’ I can just be jamming on this riff in my gym on my amp and then just go up to the Vatican [his recording studio] and track it."
Berzerkus Festival
Wylde will be hosting the debut edition of his own Berzerkus festival on September 14 at Poconos Park in Bushkill, Pennsylvania. Black Label Society will co-headline the event with country star Cody Jinks, along with performances by Clutch, Rival Sons, and Black Stone Cherry.
Conclusion
"The Gallows" is a high-energy, riff-based track that promises to deliver the same caliber of heavy riffs that fans have come to expect from Black Label Society. With the band set to tour extensively in support of the Pantera celebration and working on their next album, fans can expect a busy 2025. As the band celebrates its 25th anniversary, Wylde reflects on the band’s early days and how their approach to songwriting has evolved over the years.
FAQs
Q: What is the inspiration behind "The Gallows"?
A: The song was born out of Wylde’s powerlifting workouts and his admiration for fitness guru Richard Simmons.
Q: When can fans expect the next Black Label Society album?
A: Wylde confirmed that the album is still in the works, with a release date set for 2026.
Q: What is Berzerkus festival?
A: Berzerkus is a new festival founded by Wylde, featuring performances by Black Label Society, Clutch, Rival Sons, Black Stone Cherry, and others.
Q: What is the significance of the 25th anniversary of Black Label Society?
A: The anniversary marks a significant milestone for the band, with Wylde reflecting on the band’s early days and how their approach to songwriting has evolved over the years.