Fight from the Inside (featuring Jack Blades)

The Zoo Crew is spinning the killer track "Fight from the Inside (featuring Jack Blades)" by Jake E. Lee from the compilation album Guitar Shredding Heroes for all you Zoo Freaks out there. This song, a high-octane cover of Queen’s 1977 track from News of the World, showcases Jake E. Lee’s blistering guitar work paired with Jack Blades’ powerhouse vocals. Interestingly, this track is part of a tribute compilation featuring guitar legends like Slash and Dimebag Darrell, highlighting Lee’s place among rock’s elite shredders. In a 2014 interview with Guitar Player, Lee mentioned his love for reinterpreting classic tracks, noting that covering songs like this allows him to pay homage while adding his own fiery spin. Though specific stories about this recording are scarce, Lee’s collaboration with Blades, known for his work with Night Ranger and Damn Yankees, likely stemmed from their shared connections in the ‘80s rock scene, creating a perfect storm of raw energy for this rendition.

Jake E. Lee, born Jakey Lou Williams on February 15, 1957, in Norfolk, Virginia, kicked off his musical journey in San Diego after his family relocated there during his childhood. His mother, of Japanese descent, encouraged him to take classical piano lessons at age six, but Lee found his true calling at 13 when he picked up his sister’s guitar, inspired by the likes of Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin. As detailed in a San Diego Reader profile, Lee taught himself using a Mel Bay guitar method book, applying his piano theory knowledge to master the instrument. By his teens, he was gigging with local bands like Teaser, which became a house band at San Diego’s Straita Head Sound club. In 1980, he joined Mickey Ratt (later just Ratt), contributing to their early single and the influential Metal Massacre compilation. Lee’s big break came in 1982 when bassist Dana Strum recommended him to Ozzy Osbourne, landing him the gig after a tense audition against George Lynch. His work on Ozzy’s Bark at the Moon solidified his reputation as a guitar hero.

For all you Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper into Jake E. Lee’s world, check out his official website at jakeelee.com for updates on his music and projects. You can follow him on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes glimpses and tour news. On X, Lee occasionally shares thoughts and interacts with fans, though he’s known for keeping a low profile. For fan communities, the Jake E. Lee Fan Group on Facebook is a lively spot where supporters share memories, rare photos, and discuss his work with Ozzy, Badlands, and Red Dragon Cartel. Another great resource is the fan-run Jake E. Lee Net, packed with discographies, interviews, and tributes to his career. So, keep it locked to THE ZOO, and let’s keep rocking with Jake E. Lee’s epic riffs!