The Mission
Randy Rhoads (December 6, 1956 – March 19, 1982) was more than a guitarist, he was a pioneering musical force and a once-in-a-generation talent whose innovation, passion, and discipline helped redefine rock music forever. Although he was born in Santa Monica, he spent his entire life in Burbank, California, a community that shaped both his personal journey and his rise to legendary status.
Burbank is not just where Randy lived, it’s where he grew, where he taught, where he inspired, and where his legacy truly began. Honoring him there is more than appropriate, it’s personal. It’s meaningful. It’s home.If there is any place in the world that deserves to celebrate Randy Rhoads and preserve his legacy for future generations, it is the city of Burbank. Now is the time to make that recognition permanent.
Burbank, California, is known for its rich history in the entertainment industry, housing many of the great talents that have influenced music and film. However, the city does not have a dedicated monument to commemorate one of its most prodigious sons, Randy Rhoads. By installing a life-size bronze statue depicting Rhoads in a classic performance stance, we would not only pay tribute to his exceptional contribution to music but also inspire future generations of artists who come to Burbank with dreams of creating something extraordinary.
Randy Rhoads’ influence can still be felt today. His work with Ozzy Osbourne and Quiet Riot introduced a new standard of excellence in guitar playing that countless musicians strive to emulate. His unique sound, memorable riffs, and pioneering techniques forever changed the landscape of rock music. A statue would serve as a permanent reminder of his artistic genius and encourage young musicians to pursue their dreams with the same passion and vision.
Stough Park in Burbank holds a special and authentic connection to Randy Rhoads’ early musical journey. Long before he became a global icon, Randy performed there with his bands, most notably Quiet Riot, bringing his extraordinary talent to the local community that supported and shaped him. The park was not just a venue, but a proving ground where his sound, stage presence, and identity as a musician began to take form. Placing a statue at Stough Park would honor not only his legacy, but the exact place where that legacy was born, creating a powerful, tangible link between Randy’s beginnings and his lasting impact on music history.
Creating this statue in Burbank is not merely about reflecting on the past but about building a bridge to the future. It offers an opportunity for the community to come together to celebrate and recognize a native talent whose legacy is woven into the fabric of musical history. Such a monument would not only bring fans and tourists to the city but also demonstrate the cultural value that Burbank places on its contributions to the arts.
Join us in petitioning the city of Burbank to honor Randy Rhoads with a statue. Your support could make all the difference in bringing this vision to life. Sign this petition to help create a landmark that pays tribute to one of rock music's greatest innovators.
About Us
Founder
The Randy Rhoads Memorial Project was founded by professional guitarist Bill Lonero, whose connection to Randy’s music goes far beyond admiration, it’s deeply personal. Bill first heard Randy Rhoads at just 11 years old, and like so many musicians, that moment was transformative. It wasn’t just the speed or precision, it was the emotion, the composition, the unmistakable blend of classical influence and raw rock energy that made Randy stand apart from everyone else.
From that point on, Randy wasn’t just a favorite guitarist, he became a benchmark. The standard. The reason to practice longer, dig deeper, and approach the instrument with purpose. Bill, like countless others, was shaped by Randy’s playing in a way that stayed with him throughout his life and career.
In 2006, an event happened regarding Randy that chilled Bill to his bones, an experience that would stay with him, quietly unresolved, only to manifest itself nearly 20 years later in a way he could no longer ignore.
As the years went on, one idea never left him: for someone who had such a profound impact on music, there was no permanent, public tribute in the very place where his journey began, Burbank, California.
That never sat right.
The Randy Rhoads Memorial Project was born out of that realization. Not just as a tribute from one musician to another, but as a way to give fans, family, and future generations a place to connect with Randy’s legacy. A place where his influence isn’t just remembered, but felt.
This project is about honoring a pioneer, recognizing his roots, and finally giving Randy Rhoads the permanent presence in his hometown that his legacy has long deserved.