Why Michael Schenker Turned Down Ozzy and Deep Purple Gigs

Michael Schenker shared during a new interview that he was approached in the past to join Ozzy Osbourne, Deep Purple, Motorhead, and Thin Lizzy, and shared his reason for turning down the offers.

Schenker made the comments during a chat with The Metal Voice to promote the forthcoming MSG album "Immortal", which is set to hit stores on January 29th.

The began by discussing being approached to join Deep Purple. He said, "In 1993 I got a phone call, I was the first person to be chosen. You have to remember me and Ritchie Blackmore have so many parallels, everyone that leaves Ritchie Blackmore joins Michael Schenker, it's the funniest thing.

"There was always a conversation in Deep Purple and Ozzy, that's why Ozzy called me up and asked me to join. I was always the first choice but I declined and I must say I'm the kid in the sandbox just enjoying playing.

"When I get these offers from Thin Lizzy, Motorhead... I always decline because I don't want to copy, I want to do pure self expression. I declined all these bands because I had the vision of focusing on pure expression. I cannot follow a bunch of people looking for something that I have already finished with. My own vision is more important." Watch the interview below:

Why Michael Schenker Turned Down Ozzy and Deep Purple Gigs

Michael Schenker Announces 50th Anniversary MSG Tour

Robin McAuley Forced To Sit Out 70000 Tons Of Metal Cruise

Graham Bonnet To Undergo Spinal Surgery

Michael Schenker Fest Release 'Rock Steady' Video

Michael Schenker Fest Reveal New Album Details And Special Guest

Metallica's Kirk Hammett Featured On New Michael Schenker Song 2018 In Review

Michael Schenker Fest Announce Fall Tour

Metallica Stars Tribute Michael Schenker- Spooky Tooth's Mike Harrison Dead At 72- Black Veil Brides Denied- More

More Michael Schenker News