Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath changed the world of heavy music in ways that are almost impossible to fully express. Much like the Beatles did for rock, Ozzy and his bandmates Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward created a sound that was dark, powerful, and groundbreaking. Ozzy’s voice wasn’t traditionally “great,” but it carried a raw menace and emotion that fit perfectly with Sabbath’s eerie and heavy style.
“Black Sabbath” (1970)
The very first track on their debut album set the tone for everything that followed. Its slow, doom-laden riff and Ozzy’s haunting vocals created an atmosphere of pure dread. The song was so intense that it reportedly stopped conversations when first played, inspiring the band to write more in this dark new style.
“N.I.B.” (1970)
This song features one of Sabbath’s most iconic riffs and continues the dark, almost occult themes the band became famous for. The memorable melody follows the guitar riff closely, with Ozzy singing from the perspective of Lucifer himself—adding a mysterious and sinister edge to their sound.
“Paranoid” (1970)
Written in just half an hour when the band needed one more song, “Paranoid” became an instant classic. Its fast rhythm, catchy riff, and relatable lyrics helped it become a top hit in the UK and the US. Today, it’s one of the most covered and recognized rock songs ever.
“War Pigs” (1970)
Often called Black Sabbath’s greatest song, “War Pigs” is a powerful anti-war anthem. Its unusual structure combines slow, doom-heavy sections with bursts of energetic riffs, making it a dynamic masterpiece. The track’s critique of warlords and violence still resonates strongly with listeners today.
“Iron Man” (1970)
With its stomping, mechanical riff and a story about a lonely, misunderstood iron giant, this track became one of Sabbath’s most beloved anthems. It’s hard to resist the powerful guitar and Ozzy’s distinctive vocals, which bring the character’s emotions to life.
“Into the Void” (1971)
Closing the “Master of Reality” album, “Into the Void” features some of Tony Iommi’s most complex riffs, blending crushing heaviness with a driving rhythm. The song’s dark vibe and energy influenced countless bands, and even inspired a famous cover by Soundgarden.
“Snowblind” / “Supernaut” (1972)
These back-to-back tracks from the band’s fourth album reflect a raw and powerful energy. “Snowblind” explores darker themes, while “Supernaut” is a fun, riff-driven jam session that highlights Sabbath’s knack for balancing heaviness with groove.
“A National Acrobat” (1973)
From the “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath” album, this song showcases the band’s musical growth. It combines smooth melodies with gritty riffs, supported by vocal harmonies and Iommi’s melodic guitar work—adding a new layer of sophistication to their sound.
“Hole in the Sky” (1975)
Opening the “Sabotage” album, this track stands out for its driving rhythm and the highest-pitched Ozzy vocals recorded. It’s a heavy, energetic song that captures Sabbath’s relentless spirit during one of their last great album runs.
“Symptom of the Universe” (1975)
This song is often credited with influencing the birth of thrash metal. Its fast tempo, dark instrumental breaks, and intense vocals laid the groundwork for a whole new subgenre, showing just how ahead of their time Sabbath truly were.
“Crazy Train” (1980)
Launching Ozzy’s solo career, “Crazy Train” introduced a more melodic yet still powerful sound. With Randy Rhoads’ innovative guitar work, the song became an anthem for rock fans worldwide and remains one of Ozzy’s most recognizable tracks.
“Mr. Crowley” (1980)
Named after the infamous occultist Aleister Crowley, this song features one of Randy Rhoads’ most memorable riffs. Ozzy’s vocal delivery captures the eerie, mystical vibe, continuing Sabbath’s fascination with dark themes in a fresh, solo-era style.
“Diary of a Madman” (1981)
The title track from Ozzy’s second solo album is a dramatic, almost theatrical piece. Its haunting intro builds into a wild climax, combining dark storytelling with powerful instrumental sections that highlight the band’s musical skills.
“Mama, I’m Coming Home” (1991)
A heartfelt ballad from the “No More Tears” album, this song shows a softer, more vulnerable side of Ozzy. Co-written with guitarist Zakk Wylde and Lemmy Kilmister, its emotional lyrics and soaring melody make it a fan favorite. It was also a poignant part of Ozzy’s final live performance, capturing the spirit of a rock legend saying goodbye.
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