Randy Rhoads: 2002 Memorial TV Special (Japan)

It has been 40 years since the tragic death of the guitar genius Randy Rhoads. To mark this significant 2022 anniversary, a unique Japanese tribute program—one that truly resonates—is being released. This title is actually a TV special that aired two decades ago: a Randy Rhoads documentary produced for the commercial broadcaster’s series “NONFIX.” While our shop has archived a wide array of music programs, this one stands out as a top-tier gem in our collection. What makes it so special? It is a completely original documentary production. When it comes to Western music, Japanese broadcasts are usually just translated versions of overseas programs. Documentaries, in particular, require countless interviews; simply arranging schedules with each individual is a massive undertaking. It would be one thing to film an entire band at once during a tour in Japan, but tracking down and visiting acquaintances of a musician who has already passed away is impossible without a huge production budget. Yet, this program managed to pull it off. Aside from music videos and the classic “After Hours” footage, the program relies on original material. Interspersed throughout are comments from associates like Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne, Zakk Wylde, Joe Holmes, Rudy Sarzo, and Kelly Garni, as well as memories shared by the Rhoads family—his mother Dolores, sister Kathy, and brother Kelle—and close journalist friends. Although the interviews took place overseas—at significant studios, private homes, and Randy’s gravesite—one can hear Japanese interpreters at work, and the interviewees often express their gratitude to Japanese fans. It is unmistakably a production driven by a Japanese crew conducting location shoots abroad. While this is merely my own speculation, the timing—2002—likely played a major role in making such a lavish program possible. Although the show was billed as a commemoration of the 20th anniversary of Randy’s passing, it was clearly much more than that. In 2002, the *Down to Earth* tour came to Japan, and the performance was filmed for release as *Live at Budokan*. That period also coincided with the launch of the smash-hit TV show *The Osbournes*. The production is so lavish that one might even speculate it was all tied into that promotional push. It is a moving documentary overflowing with affection for Randy. While I found myself impressed by those production details, that is not the true essence of the work; at its core, it is simply a program brimming with deep love for Randy. It follows the classic documentary format, interspersing commentary between performance segments—though, as mentioned, the footage itself (drawn from familiar music videos and *After Hours*) offers nothing new. What matters most are the comments that reveal Randy’s true character. The story traces his life chronologically: starting with the music school run by his mother, Dolores, it covers his discovery of the guitar, the formation of his bands, his passion for rock, the audition for Ozzy, and the whirlwind of touring and success. Along the way, acquaintances share glimpses of the real Randy—details only those close to him would know. We learn about his love for his girlfriend (which rivaled his love for the guitar), the inspiration behind his signature polka-dot outfits and bow ties, and surprising hobbies like photography and model trains. Naturally, the music takes center stage as well. Rudy Sarzo discusses the differences between Randy’s studio and live guitar tones—touching on picking technique, distortion, and string choice from a bandmate’s unique perspective—while Joe Holmes reveals details about his guitar lessons. His older brother, Kelle, offers a glimpse into Randy’s musical roots, noting that it was Randy who introduced him to the band Queen. Meanwhile, his mother, Dolores, shares memories of playing music together and presents handwritten scores from his personal effects, shedding light on his growing fascination with classical music and the direction he intended to take his sound next. And, of course, the program focuses heavily on his time with Ozzy: the impact of their first meeting, the behind-the-scenes story of creating historic albums, and life on the road. The commentary unfolds much like the pages of Randy’s own diary, eventually leading us to that fateful date: March 19, 1982. Ozzy voices his deep remorse—asking why he survived while Randy died, and lamenting that *he* should have been the one on the plane—sentiments that seamlessly transition into the beautiful melody of “Mr. Crowley.” And then, there is that guitar solo—a performance that feels like a direct offering to the soul. Although the footage from *After Hours* was already etched in my memory, it has never moved me quite like this before. The associates and fans appearing in the film repeatedly express their gratitude for the creation of this program; indeed, there may never have been another documentary that focuses so squarely and sincerely on the man Randy Rhoads truly was. Unlike so many programs produced merely as routine assignments, there is no doubt that the staff behind this film deeply love Randy. It is precisely because their work is rooted in such genuine affection that they were able to draw out the true essence of Randy’s character from the hearts of those who knew him. 2022 marks the 40th anniversary of Randy’s passing, and the release of a new Ozzy album—rumored to be his final work—is also imminent. This cinematic masterpiece offers the perfect opportunity to reflect on this significant moment in time. I urge you to take the time to experience it fully. This is a release of the Randy tribute special originally produced in 2002. Through the words of Ozzy, bandmates, the Rhoads family, and others, this documentary masterpiece spends roughly 80 minutes delving deep into the true character of Randy Rhoads. 20th Anniversary of the Death of Randy Rhoads Feat. Exclusive Interviews 1. Introduction 2. Crazy Train (Zepp Osaka 2002) 3. Zakk Wylde / Ozzy Osbourne 4. Sharon & Ozzy Osbourne 5. I Don’t Know (After Hours) 6. Rudy Sarzo 7. John Stix 8. Sharon & Ozzy Osbourne 9. Musonia School Of Music (Delores / Kathy / Kelle) 10. Suicide Solution (After Hours)11. Quiet Riot 12. Joe Holmes 13. Audition for Ozzy Osbourne 14. Crazy Train (After Hours) 15. Tour & Musical differences 16. Mr. Crowley (After Hours) 17. Classical Guitar 18. Death (Plane Crash 19th March 1982) 19. Rudy Sarzo / Sharon & Ozzy Osbourne 20. Tribute Tracks 21. Goodbye To Romance (19th March 2002) 22. End Credit Featuring exclusive interviews: Ozzy OsbourneSharon Osbourne Zakk Wylde Joe Holmes Rudy Sarzo Kelly Garni John Stix Kathy Rhoads Dargenzio Kelle Rhoads Delores Rhoads PRO-SHOT COLOUR NTSC Approx.77min.