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King Diamond Adds Gus G. To Current Line-up, Replacing Original Guitarist Andy LaRocque

King Diamond is thrilled to announce the addition of guitar virtuoso Gus G. (Firewind, ex-Ozzy Osbourne) to the band's lineup. Gus G. joins as guitarist and will compose, record, and tour with King Diamond going forward, marking an exciting new chapter in the band's storied history.

The band extends their deepest gratitude and utmost respect to Andy LaRocque, whose extraordinary 40-year contribution to King Diamond has left a permanent and irreplaceable mark on the band's legacy and on heavy metal as a whole. Andy's musicianship, dedication, and artistry have been an essential part of what makes this band what it is, and that will never be forgotten.

Gus G. performing with Firewind on 70,000 Tons of Metal in 2026

Comments King Diamond, "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."

One of heavy metal's most celebrated and in-demand guitarists, Gus G. — born Konstantinos Karamitroudis in Thessaloniki, Greece — has built one of the most impressive resumes in the genre. As founder and driving force behind Firewind for over two decades and ten studio albums, and as Ozzy Osbourne's lead guitarist from 2009 to 2017 — contributing to the Grammy-nominated album Scream (2010) — Gus G. has proven himself to be one of the most versatile and technically gifted players in metal. A celebrated solo artist with six albums to his name, he has also appeared as a guest on records by Bruce Dickinson, Arch Enemy, Doro Pesch, In This Moment, and many more. He has graced the covers of Guitar World, Total Guitar, Metal Hammer, and Young Guitar, and earned accolades including Metal Hammer's Golden God Award for Best Shredder. His addition to KING DIAMOND represents a pairing of two of heavy metal's most iconic forces.

King Diamond and Gus G. are already deep in the creative process together, working on what promises to be one of the most anticipated new chapters in the band's career. Fans can expect new music from the full lineup in the future. Stay tuned for further announcements.

King Diamond and Andy LaRocque at Mystic Festival in 2025