Ozzy Osbourne’s 15 greatest songs

Crazy Train: Defining solo metal anthem

“Crazy Train” remains Ozzy Osbourne’s signature solo anthem, anchored by Randy Rhoads’ unforgettable opening riff. It led heavy metal into mainstream consciousness and remains his most-streamed solo track, surpassing half a billion plays on Spotify by March 2023, and the most performed live song in his catalog.

The riff earned top rankings as a greatest guitar solo from Guitar World readers, and Rolling Stone placed it among the hundred greatest metal songs of all time. Critics, fans, and industry alike consider it iconic.

Paranoid: Sabbath’s cultural metal catalyst

“Paranoid” epitomizes early heavy metal and Black Sabbath’s breakthrough success. Written in under thirty minutes as an album filler, it became a top‑10 hit in the U.K. and a staple on MTV’s “Top of the Pops,” earning praise as proto‑punk metal before such genres existed.

With Tony Iommi’s driving riff and Ozzy’s impassioned vocal about alienation and mental turmoil, it ranks on VH1’s 40 Greatest Metal Songs and Rolling Stone’s all‑time song lists. It remains deeply influential, a cultural touchpoint credited with shaping metal’s identity and inspiring generations of musicians and fans alike.

War Pigs: Heavy polemic and grandeur

“War Pigs” blends thunderous musical dynamics with scathing political commentary, spotlighting the manipulation of working‑class soldiers by cynical leaders. Often hailed by critics, including Kerrang! and Guitar World, as one of the greatest heavy metal songs ever, it delivers dramatic contrasts, operatic vocals, and complex arrangements.

Ozzy’s theatrical delivery gives weight to Geezer Butler’s lyrics about the horrors of war, creating a track that is both bombastic and intellectually stirring. Decades later, it remains one of Sabbath’s most performed and revered classics, anchoring Ozzy’s early legacy firmly in both sound and substance.

Iron Man: Science‑fiction metal classic

“Iron Man” is one of the most instantly recognizable metal songs ever, melding apocalyptic sci‑fi storytelling with Tony Iommi’s monolithic riff and Ozzy’s haunting vocal style. Critically acclaimed, it earned a Grammy for a live version and appears on many all‑time greatest song lists, including Rolling Stone’s and VH1’s.

Its dystopian narrative and chilling atmosphere made it a defining moment in Sabbath’s and Ozzy’s evolution as genre pioneers. The song’s cinematic weight, musical innovation, and emotional depth continue to resonate with new audiences and solidify its place in rock history.

Mr Crowley: Solo occult‑themed centerpiece

From his debut solo album Blizzard of Ozz, “Mr. Crowley” explores occult mystique inspired by Aleister Crowley and tarot symbolism found in the studio. Randy Rhoads’ classical‑influenced solo shapes an eerie sonic landscape, while Ozzy’s vocals dramatize the mysterious figure.

Critics highlight the song for establishing Ozzy’s distinctive solo persona, merging horror-theatre aesthetics with profound musical ambition. It has remained a fan favorite, consistently ranked near the top of solo‑era lists for its atmosphere, musicianship, and its role in launching Ozzy’s long solo career.

Bark At The Moon: MTV era heavy resurgence

“Bark at the Moon” marked Ozzy’s solo resurgence in 1983, introducing guitarist Jake E. Lee and Ozzy’s first official music video. The track mixes horror‑style lyrics, a theatrical persona, and tight metal riffing, and charted well across U.S. and U.K. rock radio.

Frequently voted as one of his top solo songs, its visual flair and musical energy helped Ozzy remain relevant in the MTV-driven glam‑metal era. The song’s memorable melody, video imagery, and consistent live inclusion solidify its position as an essential Ozzy solo highlight.

Shot In The Dark: Anthemic eighties breakthrough

From The Ultimate Sin (1986), “Shot in the Dark” became Ozzy’s breakthrough into mainstream charts, peaking at No. 68 on the Billboard Hot 100 and gaining heavy MTV rotation. With its catchy chorus and glossy production, it showcased his adaptability to eighties pop‑metal sensibilities while retaining his hard‑rock edge.

Critics note its cross‑over appeal and Jake E. Lee’s riffing. Regarded as one of his most commercially successful solo singles, it remains a nostalgic favorite among fans and symbols of Ozzy’s enduring impact through evolving music trends.

Over The Mountain: Rhoads’ soaring metal showcase

“Over the Mountain,” from Diary of a Madman (1981), emphasizes Randy Rhoads’ virtuoso guitar combined with Ozzy’s passionate singing. Certified triple‑platinum and widely praised among critics and fans, it stands out for its melodic yet aggressive riff structure.

It consistently ranks near the top of solo‑era lists and remains a live staple. The song captures the synergy between Ozzy and Rhoads that defined his early solo sound, combining technical prowess with heightened emotional energy, making it an emblem of his musical peak.

Flying High Again: Energizing comeback rocker

Also from Diary of a Madman, “Flying High Again” hit No. 2 on Billboard’s Rock Tracks chart in 1982 and is celebrated for its uplifting melody and Rhoads’ expressive soloing. Critics from outlets like AllMusic and Loudwire praise it as a “storming fist‑in‑the‑air” anthem, a joyous celebration of his solo ascendancy after Sabbath.

Its lyrical themes of resilience and freedom, combined with memorable hooks and technical flair, make it a fan favorite and showcase Ozzy at his most triumphant.

No More Tears: Emotional solo masterpiece evolution

The title track of No More Tears (1991) showcases a more mature, emotionally honest Ozzy, grappling with recovery, redemption, and personal introspection. Written with Lemmy Kilmister and featuring Zakk Wylde’s dynamic guitar, it blends power ballad structure with hard rock intensity.

Though chart performance on mainstream rock was modest, streaming and later acclaim made it a flagship track for his comeback era. Critics applaud its balance of vulnerability and bravado, and it remains one of his most played and enduring solo compositions.

Mama I’m Coming Home: Vulnerable power ballad

Also from No More Tears, “Mama, I’m Coming Home” stands out for its raw emotional sincerity, with Lemmy contributing the lyrics as a tribute to Ozzy’s family and their journey through addiction. The song became a mainstream hit and deeply resonated with fans for its warmth and honesty.

Its melodic simplicity and heartfelt delivery displayed a different side of Ozzy, showing he could balance theatricality with genuine, vulnerable storytelling. It remains an essential, introspective counterpoint to his heavier material.

I Don’t Wanna Stop: Later‑era resilient declaration

“I Don’t Wanna Stop” is a standout from Black Rain (2007), marking a career comeback alongside guitarist Zakk Wylde, and became a No. 1 hit on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock chart. Its message of determination and Ozzy’s refusal to fade into retirement resonated strongly with fans.

Supporting WWE and appearing in pop culture highlighted its broad appeal. Critics praised its balance of modern production, maintaining Ozzy’s trademark voice, and thematic defiance. It stands as a resilient statement of longevity well into his later years.

You Can’t Kill Rock and Roll: Metal resilience anthem

From Diary of a Madman, “You Can’t Kill Rock and Roll” delivers a defiant rallying cry asserting rock’s undying spirit. Frequently cited in fan polls as underrated yet essential, it embodies Ozzy’s belief in rock’s permanence despite adversity.

The song’s groove, chorus chant, and lyrical conviction make it a frequent inclusion in metal playlists and discussions on enduring anthems. Though not a chart-topper, it remains a deep-cut favorite, illustrating his philosophical side to music-making.

Diary Of A Madman: Thematic haunting centerpiece

The title track of Diary of a Madman (1981) is a dramatic, multi‑part composition featuring storytelling lyrics, shifting tempi, and Randy Rhoads’ virtuosic guitar work. Revered by fans and critics as one of his most ambitious solo pieces, it weaves theatrical narrative with dynamic musicianship.

Its dark, cinematic tone and structure solidified Ozzy’s artistic evolution and remains a highlight in retrospectives of his catalogue. It continues to influence modern metal storytelling and serves as a milestone in his creative trajectory.

Goodbye To Romance: Reflective solo ballad gem

A standout ballad from Blizzard of Ozz, “Goodbye To Romance” reveals Ozzy’s softer side, driven by sincere lyrics and Don Airey’s melodic keys alongside Rhoads’ lyrical solos. It contrasts sharply with his heavier material and shows emotional depth and vulnerability.

Though never released as a single, it remains widely recognized as one of his most heartfelt songs and an artful counterbalance in his discography. It’s this kind of emotional honesty that later helped Ozzy connect with a whole new audience when The Osbournes hit MTV, changing reality TV forever, as even an ex-MTV boss recently reflected in this interview about how Ozzy and his family revolutionized the genre.

Summary: Ozzy’s diverse song‑making legacy

Ozzy Osbourne’s top 15 songs, spanning Black Sabbath classics like “Paranoid,” “War Pigs,” and “Iron Man” through solo-era milestones such as “Crazy Train,” “No More Tears,” and “Bark at the Moon,” reflect his evolution as an artist who blended theatricality, social commentary, emotional honesty, and metal innovation.

It’s no surprise, then, that celebrity tributes have been pouring in to honor his influence and legacy, proving just how far-reaching his impact truly is. Which of these tracks do you think defines Ozzy best? Let us know, we’d love to hear your take.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.