An impressive new Randy Rhoads biography is available now from Velocity Publishing Group.

The 400-plus-page, 7-pound book by Steven Rosen and Andrew Klein features hundreds of rare photographs and samples of memorabilia and chronicles an oral history of Rhoads' life through the words of the people who knew him best. The book is packed with poignant stories about the guitar icon.

Before his death at age 25, Rhoads was on a fast track to being hailed as one of rock's best guitarists -- ever. Over a two-year period, he recorded two multi-platinum albums with Ozzy Osbourne.

Through his jaw-dropping six-string work on “Crazy Train,” “Mr. Crowley,” “Flying High Again” and other songs, Rhoads achieved legendary status as a guitar icon.

Rhoads' ability to bridge rock and classical techniques helped him forge a new style of playing. In 1981, Guitar Player magazine honored Rhoads by selecting him as best new talent of the year. The honor only motivated him to work harder.

Rhoads was a devoted student of his instrument who was endlessly practicing. His days were spent as a guitar teacher; by night he solidified his reputation as the “next big thing” on Hollywood's club scene. His break arrived when he assumed the lead guitar slot in Osbourne’s solo band. Soon the music world would be dazzled by his flights of fiery fretboard sizzle, swiftly recognizing the merits of this burgeoning guitar genius.

His life ended March 19, 1982, when he was killed in a small private plane that careened into the garage of a plantation home in Leesburg, Florida. Since then, Rhoads has become a pop culture institution.

For more information about the book or to order, visit the book's page at Velocity Publishing Group’s website. Check out a video about the book below: