John Michael Osbourne, better known as Ozzy Osbourne, is a trailblazing figure in the heavy metal genre, renowned for his remarkable commercial success and enduring iconic status. Born in Birmingham, England, Ozzy's early life was marked by a series of unconventional jobs and stints in various bands, ultimately leading him to join forces with fellow musician Geezer Butler.
The duo's collaborative efforts initially yielded a band that would undergo several name changes, including Earth, before settling on the now-legendary moniker Black Sabbath. The band's debut album, released in 1969-1970, featured a song titled "Black Sabbath," which would later become the band's namesake.
Throughout his tenure with Black Sabbath, Ozzy recorded numerous albums, despite the decline of his relationship with Tony Iommi, which ultimately led to his departure from the band in 1979. Following his exit, Ozzy embarked on a solo career, with a rotating cast of musicians backing him up.
The 1980s saw Ozzy struggle with alcoholism, resulting in multiple stints in rehab and two lawsuits related to the suicides of young fans. Despite these challenges, he continued to release music and tour, with his 1991 album "No More Tears" marking a turning point in his career.
In a surprise move, Ozzy announced that he would be retiring from touring, but this decision was short-lived. He reformed Black Sabbath on stage for a brief three-song set in 1991, sparking rumors of a full-scale reunion. Although this tour ultimately fell through, Ozzy continued to work on new music, with a new album scheduled for release in the summer of 1995.
In recent developments, Ozzy has reunited with Geezer Butler, who previously played bass for him during the mid-to-late 1980s. Butler has since rejoined Ozzy's solo efforts, and is expected to contribute to the upcoming album. With his new music and impending tour on the horizon, Ozzy Osbourne remains an enduring force in the world of heavy metal.
