Black Sabbath is a legendary rock band that formed in Birmingham, England in 1968. Comprised of lead vocalist Ozzy Osbourne, guitarist Tony Iommi, bassist Geezer Butler, and drummer Bill Ward, the band is widely credited with creating the heavy metal genre.
Black Sabbath’s signature sound was characterized by dark, heavy riffs, and lyrics that explored themes of horror, occultism, and social unrest. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1970, is widely considered to be the first heavy metal album, and its impact on the genre is still felt today.
Over the course of their career, Black Sabbath released 19 studio albums, with their most successful being “Paranoid” (1970) and “Master of Reality” (1971). Their influence on heavy metal and hard rock cannot be overstated, and many of the genre’s biggest names cite Black Sabbath as a major influence on their music.
In addition to their musical impact, Black Sabbath also courted controversy with their lyrics and imagery. Accused of promoting Satanism and violence, the band faced backlash from religious groups and government authorities, but they remained unapologetic about their art and continued to push the boundaries of what was acceptable in popular music.
Despite multiple lineup changes and various challenges over the years, Black Sabbath remains one of the most iconic and influential bands in rock history. Their legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike, and their music will always be a defining part of the heavy metal genre.
1. Black Sabbath (Black Sabbath, 1970)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YztzNyDGcpc
“Black Sabbath” is the eponymous song of the band’s debut album, and it is one of their most influential and enduring tracks. The song’s ominous opening riff and haunting lyrics set the tone for the rest of the album, which is considered a landmark in the development of heavy metal. The track’s dark imagery, with references to Satan and the occult, reflects the band’s interest in horror films and the macabre. “Black Sabbath” remains a classic of the genre and a powerful example of the band’s early work.
2. Iron Man (Paranoid, 1970)
“Iron Man” is one of Black Sabbath’s most famous songs and a classic of the heavy metal genre. The track’s distinctive opening riff and driving rhythm section create a powerful and memorable sound. The lyrics tell the story of a man who travels through time and returns to the present as a metal monster, wreaking havoc on the world. “Iron Man” has been covered by numerous artists and is widely regarded as a classic of the genre.
3. Heaven And Hell (Heaven And Hell, 1980)
“Heaven And Hell” is the title track of Black Sabbath’s ninth studio album and the first to feature Ronnie James Dio on vocals. The song features a powerful, driving rhythm section and soaring vocals from Dio. The lyrics, which deal with the struggle between good and evil, reflect the band’s interest in mystical and philosophical themes. “Heaven And Hell” remains a favorite among fans of the band and is considered one of their most successful albums.
4. Paranoid (Paranoid, 1970)
“Paranoid” is one of Black Sabbath’s most well-known and iconic songs. The track’s simple, catchy riff and memorable chorus have made it a staple of classic rock radio and a favorite among fans of the genre. The lyrics deal with themes of anxiety and paranoia, and the song’s driving rhythm section and powerful vocals create a sense of urgency and intensity. “Paranoid” is widely regarded as one of the band’s most successful songs and a classic of the heavy metal genre.
5. War Pigs (Paranoid, 1970)
“War Pigs” is another classic track from Black Sabbath’s second album, Paranoid. The song’s opening riff and driving rhythm section create a powerful and memorable sound, and the lyrics deal with themes of war and corruption. The track has been covered by numerous artists and is widely regarded as one of the band’s most successful songs. “War Pigs” remains a favorite among fans of the genre and a powerful example of Black Sabbath’s early work.
6. Snowblind (Vol. 4, 1972)
“Snowblind” is a classic Black Sabbath track from their fourth studio album, Vol. 4. The song’s heavy, pounding rhythm and catchy chorus make it a favorite among fans of the band. The lyrics, which deal with drug addiction, reflect the band’s interest in social issues and their own experiences with substance abuse. “Snowblind” remains a powerful and enduring example of Black Sabbath’s unique sound and influence.
7. Into The Void (Master Of Reality, 1971)
“Into The Void” is a classic Black Sabbath track from their third studio album, Master of Reality. The song’s memorable opening riff and driving rhythm section create a powerful and memorable sound. The lyrics, which deal with themes of space travel and exploration, reflect the band’s interest in science fiction and the unknown. “Into The Void” remains a favorite among fans of the band and a classic of the heavy metal genre.
8. Supernaut (Vol.4, 1972)
“Supernaut” is a classic Black Sabbath track from their fourth studio album, Vol. 4. The song’s funky, upbeat rhythm and catchy chorus make it a standout track in the band’s catalog. The lyrics, which deal with themes of individualism and rebellion, reflect the band’s interest in social issues and their own experiences as outsiders in the music industry. “Supernaut” remains a favorite among fans of the band and a powerful example of their unique sound.
9. Children Of The Grave (Master Of Reality, 1971)
“Children Of The Grave” is a classic Black Sabbath track from their third studio album, Master of Reality. The song’s heavy, pounding rhythm and catchy chorus make it a favorite among fans of the band. The lyrics, which deal with themes of war and rebellion, reflect the band’s interest in social issues and their own experiences as outsiders in the music industry. “Children Of The Grave” remains a powerful and enduring example of Black Sabbath’s unique sound and influence.
10. Falling Off The Edge Of The World (Mob Rules, 1981)
“Falling Off The Edge Of The World” is a classic Black Sabbath track from their tenth studio album, Mob Rules. The song’s haunting opening riff and powerful vocals create a sense of urgency and intensity. The lyrics, which deal with themes of betrayal and despair, reflect the band’s interest in mystical and philosophical themes. “Falling Off The Edge Of The World” remains a favorite among fans of the band and a powerful example of their unique sound.
11. Sweet Leaf (Master Of Reality, 1971)
Black Sabbath’s “Sweet Leaf” is a classic heavy metal tune that pays homage to one of nature’s most beloved plants. The song’s opening riff is instantly recognizable, and it sets the tone for the rest of the track. Ozzy Osbourne’s vocal performance is outstanding, and the lyrics are a nod to the band’s appreciation for marijuana. The track’s instrumentation is tight and precise, and it showcases the band’s technical proficiency. “Sweet Leaf” remains a fan favorite, and it is a testament to the enduring legacy of Black Sabbath’s music.
12. I (Dehumanizer, 1992)
“I” is a powerful and intense track from Black Sabbath’s 1992 album “Dehumanizer.” The song’s aggressive guitar riffs and thundering drums set the tone for Ronnie James Dio’s soaring vocals. The lyrics deal with themes of self-empowerment and personal growth, urging listeners to take control of their lives and refuse to be held down by outside forces. The track is a highlight of the album and a standout in Black Sabbath’s discography, showcasing the band’s ability to deliver heavy, thought-provoking music that resonates with fans.
13. Symptom Of The Universe (Sabotage, 1975)
“Symptom of the Universe” is a standout track from Black Sabbath’s 1975 album “Sabotage.” The song is a fusion of heavy metal and progressive rock, with complex guitar riffs and time signature changes that showcase the band’s technical prowess. The track’s lyrics deal with themes of social injustice and the struggles of the working class, and Ozzy Osbourne’s vocal performance is raw and emotional. “Symptom of the Universe” is a fan favorite and a testament to Black Sabbath’s influence on the development of heavy metal music.
14. Die Young (Heaven And Hell, 1980)
“Die Young” is a standout track from Black Sabbath’s 1980 album “Heaven and Hell.” The song’s haunting opening riff sets the tone for Dio’s powerful vocals, which tell the story of a young person facing an uncertain future. The track’s lyrics deal with themes of mortality and the fleeting nature of life, urging listeners to make the most of their time on earth. “Die Young” is a fan favorite and a highlight of Black Sabbath’s discography, showcasing the band’s ability to create emotionally charged and thought-provoking music.
15. Sabbath Bloody Sabbath (Sabbath Bloody Sabbath, 1973)
“Sabbath Bloody Sabbath” is the title track of Black Sabbath’s 1973 album, and it remains a fan favorite to this day. The song’s opening riff is instantly recognizable, and the track’s dark and foreboding atmosphere is enhanced by Ozzy Osbourne’s haunting vocals. The lyrics deal with themes of paranoia and social decay, and the track’s intricate instrumentation showcases the band’s technical ability. “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath” is a standout in Black Sabbath’s discography, and it remains a classic example of the band’s unique blend of heavy metal and progressive rock.
16. Children Of The Sea (Heaven And Hell, 1980)
“Children Of The Sea” is a powerful and emotional song that was featured on Black Sabbath’s 1980 album, “Heaven and Hell.” The song deals with themes of isolation and loneliness, and the search for connection and meaning in a world that can often feel cold and indifferent. The melody is haunting and melancholic, reflecting the introspective nature of the lyrics. “Children Of The Sea” is a timeless classic that showcases Black Sabbath’s ability to blend heavy metal with introspective and emotional themes.
17. Fairies Wear Boots (Paranoid, 1970)
“Fairies Wear Boots” is a classic Black Sabbath song from their 1970 album “Paranoid.” The song is characterized by its driving rhythm and catchy guitar riffs, as well as its surreal and humorous lyrics. The song tells the story of an encounter with a group of fairies who are wearing boots, and the confusion and hilarity that ensues. “Fairies Wear Boots” is a fun and memorable track that showcases Black Sabbath’s ability to write songs that are both heavy and lighthearted.
18. A National Acrobat (Sabbath Bloody Sabbath, 1973)
“A National Acrobat” is a haunting and atmospheric song that was featured on Black Sabbath’s 1973 album, “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath.” The song’s melody is dark and moody, reflecting the introspective and philosophical nature of the lyrics. The song deals with themes of individuality and the search for meaning in a world that can often feel chaotic and meaningless. “A National Acrobat” is a powerful and thought-provoking song that showcases Black Sabbath’s ability to blend heavy metal with complex and introspective themes.
19. N.I.B. (Black Sabbath, 1970)
“N.I.B.” is a classic Black Sabbath song from their 1970 debut album. The song is characterized by its driving rhythm and memorable guitar riffs, as well as its ominous and somewhat surreal lyrics. The song tells the story of Lucifer falling in love with a mortal woman, and the consequences of their forbidden love. “N.I.B.” is a powerful and memorable track that showcases Black Sabbath’s ability to write songs that are both heavy and thought-provoking.
20. Neon Knights
“Neon Knights” is a powerful and energetic song that was featured on Black Sabbath’s 1980 album, “Heaven and Hell.” The song’s melody is fast-paced and catchy, reflecting the high energy and excitement of the lyrics. The song deals with themes of adventure and excitement, as well as the dangers that can come with living life on the edge. “Neon Knights” is a timeless classic that showcases Black Sabbath’s ability to write songs that are both heavy and fun.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
