Wizards Of Ozz!

Richard Barrett looks into the techniques of the remarkable guitarists that have played alongside one of rock’s best-loved frontmen over the years, with example riffs, solos and backing backing tracks.

- Richard Barrett

Ozzy Osbourne has collaborated with, and established, some of the most revered guitarists in the business. First, from his Black Sabbath days, is Tony Iommi, who has probably contributed more vocabulary and influenced more guitarists in this genre than any other. His crushing riffs and bluesy solos were created in spite of the artificial fingertips on the two middle fingers of his fretting hand (lost in an industrial accident as a teenager).

When Ozzy went solo in the late ’70s, it was Randy Rhoads who set the precedent for much of what followed. Blizzard Of Ozz and Diary Of A Madman feature fast, accurate riffing and deft, melodic solos that reflected Randy’s love of classical harmony - and gave Ozzy’s career a much needed shot in the arm. Sadly, Randy’s life was ended prematurely by a tragic plane crash on tour in 1982.