Ozzy Osbourne #86

Early Life and Career with Black Sabbath

Ozzy Osbourne grew up in a working-class family in Birmingham. He had a troubled youth, marked by academic struggles and minor brushes with the law. In 1968, he formed Black Sabbath with guitarist Tony Iommi, bassist Geezer Butler, and drummer Bill Ward. The band's self-titled debut album was released in 1970 and is often credited with creating the heavy metal genre.

Black Sabbath quickly became one of the most influential bands in rock history, with Osbourne's distinctive voice and dark, occult-themed lyrics playing a significant role in their success. Albums like Paranoid (1970), Master of Reality (1971), and Sabbath Bloody Sabbath (1973) are considered classics of the genre. However, Osbourne's growing problems with alcohol and drugs led to his dismissal from the band in 1979.

Solo Career and Continued Success

After leaving Black Sabbath, Osbourne launched a successful solo career with the release of Blizzard of Ozz in 1980. The album, featuring hits like "Crazy Train" and "Mr. Crowley," established him as a solo artist. Osbourne continued to release successful albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s, including Diary of a Madman (1981), Bark at the Moon (1983), and No More Tears (1991).

Osbourne's live performances became legendary for their unpredictability and wild antics, including the infamous incident where he bit the head off a bat during a concert in 1982. Despite his struggles with substance abuse, Osbourne remained a beloved figure in the rock world.

Legal Issues and Arrests

Ozzy Osbourne's life has been punctuated by several legal issues and arrests, largely stemming from his battles with addiction:

• Shelby County, Tennessee Arrest (1984): One of Osbourne's most notorious arrests occurred in Shelby County, Tennessee, in 1984. After a show in Memphis, he was arrested for public intoxication. The incident added to his reputation for wild behavior and contributed to the mythos surrounding his persona as the "Prince of Darkness."

• Alamo Incident (1982): In another infamous incident, Osbourne was arrested in San Antonio, Texas, after urinating on the Alamo Cenotaph while wearing his wife's dress. He was banned from the city for a decade, although the ban was later lifted, and Osbourne made a significant donation to the Daughters of the Republic of Texas.

• Domestic Violence Arrest (1989): In 1989, Osbourne was arrested for attempting to strangle his wife, Sharon, while under the influence of drugs and alcohol. He spent several months in rehab following the incident, and the couple eventually reconciled.

Later Career and Reality TV Stardom

In the 2000s, Osbourne's career took a surprising turn when he and his family starred in the reality TV show The Osbournes (2002-2005). The show, which aired on MTV, became a massive hit and introduced Osbourne to a new generation of fans. The series showcased the eccentricities of the Osbourne family, with Ozzy often portrayed as a bumbling but lovable father figure.

Despite ongoing health challenges, Osbourne continued to perform and release music. He reunited with Black Sabbath for the album 13 (2013) and embarked on several farewell tours, although he has repeatedly hinted at possible returns to the stage.

Legacy

Ozzy Osbourne's legacy as a rock icon is undeniable. He is considered one of the pioneers of heavy metal and has influenced countless artists across various genres. Despite his numerous legal issues, health problems, and struggles with addiction, Osbourne has remained a beloved and enduring figure in popular culture.

Known for his resilience, Osbourne's ability to overcome personal demons and maintain a successful career for over five decades has solidified his status as a legend in the music world. His contributions to both Black Sabbath and his solo work continue to be celebrated by fans and critics alike, and his influence on rock music is immeasurable.