Yngwie Malmsteen: Tim 'Ripper' Owens revealed the reality behind the reputation

Yngwie Malmsteen, the renowned Swedish guitarist celebrated for pioneering neo-classical metal, is equally known for his uncompromising demeanor and exacting standards, particularly towards vocalists. Tim "Ripper" Owens, former Judas Priest frontman, collaborated with Malmsteen on two albums: Perpetual Flame (2008) and Relentless (2010). In a recent interview with Australia's Hear 2 Zen, Owens shared insights into his professional relationship with Malmsteen, acknowledging the guitarist's notorious reputation while highlighting his own positive experiences.

Owens conceded that Malmsteen's reputation for difficult behavior is not unfounded, stating, "Well, [Yngwie] does treat people really bad—I mean, as a whole. But… he's never treated me bad. I got along with him very well."

He described Malmsteen as one of the easiest collaborators in the studio, noting their amicable interactions and Malmsteen's sense of humor. However, Owens also recounted instances where Malmsteen's intolerance for mistakes became evident, such as reprimanding crew members during performances for technical errors.

Despite these incidents, Owens emphasized that his personal experience with Malmsteen was largely positive. He mentioned that during his tenure, Malmsteen maintained sobriety, which may have contributed to a more stable working environment. Owens also revealed that the band sometimes faced unusual restrictions, like being required to wait in a closet during certain times, reflecting Malmsteen's stringent control over his surroundings.

Wait...Yngwie Malmsteen forced people to wait in a closet?!

Malmsteen's contentious relationships with vocalists are well-documented. He has openly expressed a preference for handling vocals himself, criticizing former collaborators for perceived egotism. In a 2019 interview, Malmsteen remarked, "I'm very comfortable singing myself... there's a certain disconnect when you write the song and you have someone else sing it for you."

This perspective has led to public disputes with former singers, including Joe Lynn Turner and Jeff Scott Soto, who have responded to Malmsteen's critiques in various forums.

Owens's reflections offer a nuanced view of Malmsteen, acknowledging his demanding nature while highlighting a collaborative and respectful partnership. This complexity shows the challenges and rewards of working with a musician of Malmsteen's caliber, whose artistic vision and personality continue to influence the dynamics within his projects. That being said, if I may interject here: Don't make people wait in a closet, Yngwie!

Though musicianship can have emotional and cognitive benefits, it sort of seems like having to sit in a closet is not one of those. Right? Or am I speaking too much out of line again? (In this day and age, it seems like I am considered wrong by someone somewhere, no matter what I say or how I say it...but still, a closet power play/mind game? That seems a bit off.)

For a more in-depth understanding, you can watch the full interview with Tim "Ripper" Owens here, and you can listen to one of Tim and Malmsteen's collaborations below...if you dare!