Ozzy Osbourne

For over five decades, Ozzy Osbourne reigned as the undisputed "Prince of Darkness" and one of heavy metal's most influential and enduring figures until his passing on July 22, 2025. From his groundbreaking work as the frontman of Black Sabbath - the band that essentially invented heavy metal - to his legendary solo career spanning 13 studio albums, Ozzy sold over 100 million records worldwide and left an indelible mark on rock history. His journey from Birmingham's working-class streets to global superstardom reads like the ultimate rock 'n' roll fairy tale, complete with the wild antics, legendary performances, and larger-than-life personality that made him a cultural icon far beyond the metal community.

After being fired from Black Sabbath in 1979, Ozzy launched his solo career with 1980's Blizzard of Ozz, featuring the late, great Randy Rhoads on guitar and spawning eternal classics like "Crazy Train" and "Mr. Crowley." This album established the template for his solo work: combining his distinctive wail with virtuosic musicianship, theatrical stage shows, and songs that balanced darkness with surprising accessibility. Throughout the 1980s and beyond, collaborating with guitar legends like Jake E. Lee, Zakk Wylde, and countless other world-class musicians, Ozzy continued to evolve while maintaining his core identity. His 2022 album Patient Number 9 - featuring guests including Jeff Beck, Eric Clapton, Tony Iommi, and the late Taylor Hawkins - proved that even in his 70s, the Prince of Darkness continued to create vital, compelling music. With his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame both as a member of Black Sabbath (2006) and as a solo artist (2024), multiple Grammy Awards, and final farewell performances in 2025, Ozzy's legacy as heavy metal's ultimate showman and one of music's most beloved figures remains secure for eternity.

Discography

Studio Albums:

• 1980 - Blizzard of Ozz (Jet Records)
• 1981 - Diary of a Madman (Jet Records)
• 1983 - Bark at the Moon (Epic Records)
• 1986 - The Ultimate Sin (Epic Records)
• 1988 - No Rest for the Wicked (Epic Records)
• 1991 - No More Tears (Epic Records)
• 1995 - Ozzmosis (Epic Records)
• 2001 - Down to Earth (Epic Records)
• 2007 - Black Rain (Epic Records)
• 2010 - Scream (Epic Records)
• 2020 - Ordinary Man (Epic Records)
• 2022 - Patient Number 9 (Epic Records)

Essential Live Albums:

• 1982 - Speak of the Devil (Jet Records)
• 1987 - Tribute (Epic Records)
• 1993 - Live & Loud (Epic Records)
• 2002 - Live at Budokan (Epic Records)