Lead singer of Ugly Kid Joe reflects on connection with Lemmy and recording sessions with Black Sabbath
Whitfield Crane from Ugly Kid Joe recently reminisced about his close friendship with the late Ian “Lemmy” Kilmister from Motörhead during an interview with Rocklahoma Live. Additionally, he shared insights into the time he stood in as a singer for Black Sabbath rehearsals in 1997.
The encounter between Crane and Lemmy took place at a Randy Rhoads tribute concert hosted in Irvine Meadows. Ugly Kid Joe had the opportunity to open for Motörhead and Ozzy Osbourne that night, having previously mentioned Osbourne in some of their early interviews. Crane vividly recalled the pivotal moment backstage at the venue, acknowledging his nervousness at playing such a large space for the first time and being starstruck by Lemmy’s presence.
Their friendship blossomed over time, with Crane frequently visiting Lemmy’s Hollywood apartment to engage in meaningful conversations about various aspects of life and music. Crane expressed deep admiration for Lemmy’s wisdom and valued the insights he gained from their talks.
An ardent fan of iconic rock musicians, Crane’s genuine enthusiasm and respect for these legends enabled him to create meaningful connections within the industry. His passion for music and genuine appreciation for the individuals he encountered allowed him to form lasting bonds with renowned figures like Lemmy.
In a memorable turn of events, Crane found himself performing with Black Sabbath during a series of rehearsals in Birmingham in 1997. The band was recording material for an upcoming live album and required a vocalist to lead soundchecks while Ozzy Osbourne rested his voice. Crane received a note one morning at his hotel, summoning him to join Black Sabbath for three days of intense jamming sessions in collaboration with the band members.
Reflecting on his experiences with Black Sabbath, Crane fondly recalled the electrifying atmosphere of performing on stage with such legendary musicians. He also hinted at the completion of a new record, the successor to Rad Wings of Destiny released in October 2022, although no official launch date had been confirmed at the time.
As Ugly Kid Joe gears up for the Steelhouse Festival in Ebbw Vale, U.K., on July 26, fans can anticipate a series of live shows spanning various states through September 12. A comprehensive list of their upcoming performances is available on the band’s official website for those interested in catching the group live in concert.
In the world of rock, unique encounters and unexpected collaborations often result in unforgettable experiences, as seen in Whitfield Crane’s journey with icons like Lemmy of Motörhead and Black Sabbath. These moments not only showcase the interconnected nature of the music industry but also underscore the enduring impact of genuine passion and appreciation within the rock community.