Full Breakdown
King Diamond Replaces Long-Time Guitarist Andy LaRocque with Former Ozzy Osbourne Axeman Gus G
7/25/2026, 1:53:17 PM
Core Change in the Line-up
The eponymous heavy-metal act King Diamond has announced that guitarist Andy LaRocque, who has performed with the band since its inception in 1985, is departing. Former Ozzy Osbourne and Firewind guitarist Gus G has been recruited to write, record and tour with the group on a permanent basis. King Diamond emphasized that Gus G will maintain his existing projects while contributing to the band’s upcoming trilogy of concept albums.
Background and Band History
Andy LaRocque’s tenure spans more than four decades, during which he played on all twelve King Diamond studio albums and served as producer on most releases since 1987’s *Abigail*. In early 2024 he also launched the supergroup Lex Legion, reuniting former King Diamond members Mikkey Dee, Hal Patino and Pete Blakk. The band’s most recent output includes the 2024 single “Spider Lilly,” the first new song in five years, following the 2022 single “Masquerade of Madness.” Gus G, who founded the power-metal band Firewind in 1998 and toured with Ozzy Osbourne from 2009 to 2017, joins the lineup while continuing his solo work.
Official Statements & Responses
King Diamond’s social-media announcement expressed “pride, gratitude, and respect” for LaRocque’s contributions and affirmed that the friendship between the musicians remains intact. The band’s statement also conveyed “deepest gratitude and utmost respect” for LaRocque’s “extraordinary 40-year contribution,” noting that his musicianship and dedication were essential to the group’s identity. Regarding Gus G, King Diamond highlighted that the guitarist will “compose, record, and tour” with the band, stressing that no restrictions will impede his involvement.
Data & Statistics
- Andy LaRocque: 40 years with King Diamond, guitarist on all 12 studio albums.
- Gus G: former Ozzy Osbourne guitarist (2009-2017), founder of Firewind (1998), active in solo projects.
- Recent releases: “Spider Lilly” (2024) and live performance of “Electro Therapy” (2024).
- Upcoming project: a trilogy of concept albums slated for future release.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It’s a big honor for me to welcome Gus G. as our new guitarist. 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 — King.” — King Diamond
