Ozzy Osbourne, born John Michael Osbourne on December 3, 1948, in Birmingham, England, is a legendary rock vocalist and songwriter. He gained fame as the lead vocalist of the pioneering heavy metal band Black Sabbath and later achieved success as a solo artist.
As the frontman for Black Sabbath, Osbourne played a pivotal role in shaping the heavy metal genre. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1970, and subsequent albums like “Paranoid” and “Master of Reality” are considered cornerstones of heavy metal music.
In 1979, Osbourne was fired from Black Sabbath due to personal issues, but this setback marked the beginning of his highly successful solo career. His debut solo album, “Blizzard of Ozz” (1980), featured iconic tracks such as “Crazy Train” and “Mr. Crowley.” Osbourne’s solo work continued to be characterized by his distinctive vocal style, dark lyrics, and a blend of heavy metal and hard rock elements.
Ozzy Osbourne has had a profound influence on the rock and metal genres, earning him the nickname “The Prince of Darkness.” In addition to his musical career, Osbourne is known for his reality TV show, “The Osbournes,” which aired from 2002 to 2005 and provided a glimpse into his family life.
Despite facing health challenges in recent years, Ozzy Osbourne’s impact on the world of rock and heavy metal remains enduring, and he is widely regarded as one of the genre’s most iconic figures.
1. Crazy Train
“Crazy Train” is one of Ozzy Osbourne’s most iconic songs, released in 1980 as the first single from his debut solo album, “Blizzard of Ozz.” The track is known for its memorable guitar riff, powerful vocals, and enduring popularity.
The song opens with Randy Rhoads’ distinctive guitar intro, featuring a series of fast, descending notes. This riff has become synonymous with the energy and intensity of heavy metal. The lyrics of “Crazy Train” touch on themes of the Cold War, political instability, and the threat of nuclear conflict.
Ozzy Osbourne’s vocal performance on “Crazy Train” is marked by his dynamic and distinctive delivery. The song’s chorus, with Osbourne exclaiming “All aboard! Ha ha ha ha ha ha haaaa!” became a rallying cry for fans and is one of the most recognizable moments in rock music.
“Crazy Train” has been a staple of Osbourne’s live performances and is considered one of his signature songs. The song’s enduring popularity has made it a classic in the heavy metal genre and a favorite among fans of Ozzy Osbourne’s solo career.
2. Mr. Crowley
“Mr. Crowley” is a song by British heavy metal musician Ozzy Osbourne, released on his debut solo album, “Blizzard of Ozz,” in 1980. The song was written by Osbourne and guitarist Randy Rhoads.
“Mr. Crowley” is known for its dark and occult-themed lyrics, inspired by the infamous British occultist and ceremonial magician Aleister Crowley. The track features a powerful guitar riff, intricate guitar solos by Randy Rhoads, and Osbourne’s distinctive vocals.
The song has become one of Ozzy Osbourne’s most iconic and enduring tracks. Despite its controversial subject matter, “Mr. Crowley” is celebrated for its musical composition and Rhoads’ exceptional guitar work. The album “Blizzard of Ozz” marked a successful beginning to Ozzy Osbourne’s solo career after his departure from Black Sabbath.
3. Bark at the Moon
“Bark at the Moon” is a song by Ozzy Osbourne, released in 1983 as the title track from his third studio album. The album marked a significant moment in Osbourne’s solo career, as it was the first to feature guitarist Jake E. Lee, following the tragic death of Randy Rhoads.
The title track “Bark at the Moon” is characterized by its dark and atmospheric sound. The song features a haunting guitar riff and an anthemic chorus. The lyrics are often interpreted as telling a story of a man transforming into a werewolf, with the moon as a central theme.
The music video for “Bark at the Moon” became memorable for its special effects, featuring Osbourne as a werewolf in a Gothic setting. The imagery added to the song’s mystique and contributed to its popularity.
“Bark at the Moon” remains one of Ozzy Osbourne’s well-known songs and a staple in his live performances. The album of the same name helped solidify Osbourne’s status as a solo artist in the post-Black Sabbath era. The track is often celebrated for its dark and theatrical elements, showcasing Osbourne’s ability to create memorable and impactful heavy metal music.
4. No More Tears
“No More Tears” is a song by Ozzy Osbourne, released in 1991 on his album of the same name. The song was written by Osbourne, along with his longtime guitarist Zakk Wylde, bassist Mike Inez, and co-producer/engineer John Purdell.
“No More Tears” is characterized by its heavy guitar riff, melodic elements, and Osbourne’s distinctive vocals. The song features a dynamic structure, with both heavy and softer sections. The lyrics convey a message of overcoming challenges and finding a sense of relief.
The track became one of Ozzy Osbourne’s successful singles, and its music video gained attention for its eerie and atmospheric visuals. The album “No More Tears” marked a significant point in Osbourne’s solo career, and the song remains a staple in his live performances. Zakk Wylde’s guitar work on “No More Tears” is often praised for its technical skill and emotional depth.
5. Miracle Man
“Miracle Man” is a song by Ozzy Osbourne, released in 1988 as the lead single from his sixth studio album, “No Rest for the Wicked.” The album marked the return of Osbourne’s guitarist Zakk Wylde and included the hit single “Miracle Man.”
The song is known for its hard-hitting and energetic sound, characteristic of Osbourne’s heavy metal style. “Miracle Man” features powerful guitar riffs and Osbourne’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics are often interpreted as a critique of religious leaders who exploit their followers for personal gain.
The music video for “Miracle Man” gained attention for its playful and satirical take on televangelism, with Osbourne portraying a charismatic preacher. The song itself received positive reviews and became a commercial success, earning Osbourne another hit in his solo career.
“Miracle Man” showcases the chemistry between Ozzy Osbourne and Zakk Wylde, who went on to become one of Osbourne’s longtime collaborators. The track remains a notable entry in Osbourne’s discography, reflecting the heavier and more contemporary sound of his music in the late 1980s.
6. Over the Mountain
“Over the Mountain” is a song by Ozzy Osbourne, released on his debut solo album, “Diary of a Madman,” in 1981. The song was written by Osbourne, along with his guitarist Randy Rhoads, who played a crucial role in shaping Osbourne’s early solo sound.
“Over the Mountain” features a driving guitar riff, powerful vocals by Osbourne, and intricate guitar solos by Randy Rhoads. The song’s lyrics are open to interpretation but are often seen as expressing a sense of overcoming challenges and breaking through barriers.
The track is well-regarded among fans of Ozzy Osbourne’s solo work, and Randy Rhoads’ guitar work on “Over the Mountain” is often cited as an example of his exceptional talent and contribution to heavy metal guitar playing. “Diary of a Madman” is considered one of Ozzy Osbourne’s classic albums, and “Over the Mountain” is a standout track from that release.
7. Shot in the Dark
“Shot in the Dark” is a song by Ozzy Osbourne, released in 1986 as the lead single from his fifth studio album, “The Ultimate Sin.” The album marked a period of commercial success for Osbourne and included several notable tracks, with “Shot in the Dark” being one of the standout songs.
The song is characterized by its catchy melody, memorable guitar riff, and Osbourne’s distinctive vocals. Written by Osbourne, along with his guitarist Jake E. Lee and bassist Phil Soussan, “Shot in the Dark” features a polished and radio-friendly sound, making it one of Osbourne’s more accessible tracks.
The music video for “Shot in the Dark” received significant airplay on MTV, contributing to the song’s commercial success. The track became a hit on rock radio and helped propel “The Ultimate Sin” to commercial success.
“Shot in the Dark” remains a popular and well-regarded song in Ozzy Osbourne’s catalog. Its commercial success and enduring appeal make it a noteworthy entry in Osbourne’s solo career during the mid-1980s.
8. Perry Mason
“Perry Mason” is a song by Ozzy Osbourne, released on his album “Ozzmosis” in 1995. The song was written by Osbourne, along with his longtime guitarist Zakk Wylde and John Purdell.
“Perry Mason” is characterized by its heavy guitar riffs, Osbourne’s distinctive vocals, and a dark and atmospheric arrangement. The lyrics are somewhat enigmatic and have been interpreted in various ways, with some suggesting a connection to the fictional defense attorney Perry Mason and others seeing it as a reflection on personal struggles.
The song was a commercial success, and its music video received airplay on music television channels. “Perry Mason” is often considered one of the standout tracks from the “Ozzmosis” album, showcasing Osbourne’s continued relevance in the 1990s heavy metal scene.
9. I Don’t Know
“I Don’t Know” is a song by Ozzy Osbourne, released on his debut solo album, “Blizzard of Ozz,” in 1980. The song was written by Osbourne, along with his guitarist Randy Rhoads and bassist Bob Daisley.
“I Don’t Know” is the opening track of the “Blizzard of Ozz” album and is known for its powerful guitar riffs, Osbourne’s distinctive vocals, and a dynamic musical arrangement. The lyrics convey a sense of confusion and uncertainty, which aligns with the album’s broader themes.
Randy Rhoads’ guitar work on “I Don’t Know” is often praised for its technical skill and impact, contributing to the song’s status as a classic in Osbourne’s solo discography. The “Blizzard of Ozz” album marked a significant chapter in Osbourne’s career after leaving Black Sabbath and established him as a solo artist in the heavy metal genre.
10. Mama, I’m Coming Home
“Mama, I’m Coming Home” is a ballad by Ozzy Osbourne, released in 1991 on his album “No More Tears.” The song was written by Osbourne, along with Zakk Wylde and Lemmy Kilmister of Motörhead. It stands out for its emotional lyrics and melodic arrangement, showcasing a softer side of Osbourne’s musical style.
The lyrics of “Mama, I’m Coming Home” convey a message of reconciliation and longing for home and loved ones. The song’s title and chorus express a desire to return to a place of comfort and acceptance. Musically, the track features acoustic elements and a memorable guitar solo, adding to its emotional impact.
The song was accompanied by a music video that further emphasized the themes of family and home. “Mama, I’m Coming Home” became one of Ozzy Osbourne’s most successful songs, receiving positive reviews and earning commercial acclaim.
Over the years, the ballad has become a fan favorite and a staple in Osbourne’s live performances. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the emotional resonance and musical craftsmanship exhibited in “Mama, I’m Coming Home.”
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.
