Ozzy Osbourne is certainly well-loved in the metal and rock world. But on a mainstream level, I’m not entirely convinced that people really grasp how good of a vocal performer he is. Sure, there are quite a few effects laid over most of his vocal tracks (that’s his signature, after all), but when it comes down to it, the man has given some amazing performances through the years with his voice at the forefront. And some of Ozzy Osbourne’s best vocal performances took place outside of Black Sabbath. Let’s take a look at a few examples of my personal favorites!
Videos by American Songwriter
“Take What You Want” with Post Malone and Travis Scott
This somewhat recent collaborative effort between Ozzy, Post Malone, and Travis Scott was a risky one. Rarely does rock and rap mix together well; it’s a delicate balance mastered by only a select few. However, “Take What You Want” ended up being a great piece of work. Ozzy’s vocals are crystal clear, which is surprising, considering he was 71 years old when it was recorded. This song was also Ozzy’s first Billboard Hot 100 Top 10 hit in over 30 years.
“Mr. Tinkertrain”
That guitar track is killer, but Ozzy steals the show with his vocals on this one. There’s so much energy on this track. And while “Mr. Tinkertrain” is the sum of its parts, something about Ozzy’s vocal quirks and lisp at certain moments makes it all the more charming.
“Crazy Train”
Following the “Train” trend, I just couldn’t leave off “Crazy Train”. That introduction? Are you kidding me?! It’s the most legendary song of Osbourne’s career, and I’d say it’s more iconic than much of what he did with Black Sabbath. Though, that’s just my personal opinion, coming from someone who isn’t a metalhead. Don’t kill me, please.
Anyway, “Crazy Train” is legendary for its excellent melody, shredding guitars, and unique instrumentation. But Ozzy’s vocals are the star of the show. He really sounded amazing here.
“I Don’t Know”
This standout track from Blizzard Of Ozz is another example of Ozzy managing to blend together genuinely good singing techniques with his own unique vocal quirks. This song and Ozzy’s vocal track on it are really the OG sound of metal. You can’t get more classic than “I Don’t Know”.
Just for fun: Here’s a bonus clip of Ozzy Osbourne’s best vocal performances with Black Sabbath, without any effects. You’re welcome!
Photo by Sean Ryan/IPS/Shutterstock
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