Discover the Guitarist Ozzy Osbourne Calls the Absolute Best – It’s Not Just About the Notes!
Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary rock icon, has hailed his former Black Sabbath bandmate Tony Iommi as the best guitarist he has ever played with. The Prince of Darkness, known for his iconic work with Black Sabbath and his successful solo career, expressed his admiration for Iommi’s guitar skills on The Madhouse Chronicles, a podcast he co-hosts with Billy Morrison.
Osbourne reminisced about the early days of Black Sabbath, emphasizing the band’s deep connection and musical synergy. He highlighted Iommi’s unparalleled talent, stating unequivocally, “Tony Iommi was, and is, the best fucking guitar player I’ve ever played with.” To Osbourne, Black Sabbath’s chemistry and Iommi’s distinct style were integral to the band’s success and sound.
Comparing Black Sabbath to legendary bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, Osbourne emphasized the irreplaceable role each member played in shaping the group’s identity. He underscored the significance of Iommi’s contributions to iconic Sabbath songs like “Paranoid,” “Children of the Grave,” and “War Pigs,” noting that the guitarist’s artistry transcends mere technical proficiency.
Despite encountering various guitarists throughout his career, Osbourne maintained that none could match Iommi’s unique charisma and musical prowess. While acknowledging the speed and skill of American guitarists, Osbourne singled out Iommi for his exceptional talent and distinctive approach to playing.
Osbourne and Iommi shared a profound musical bond during their tenure in Black Sabbath, collaborating from 1968 to 1977 and again from 1997 to the band’s retirement in 2017. Following Osbourne’s departure from Sabbath, he embarked on a successful solo career, collaborating with renowned guitarists like Randy Rhoads, Zakk Wylde, and Gus G.
In a momentous reunion, Iommi contributed to Osbourne’s solo album “Patient Number 9” in 2022, lending his signature sound to tracks like “Degradation Rules” and “No Escape From Now.” The album marked a pivotal moment in their enduring friendship and musical partnership.
Despite his retirement from touring due to health concerns, including Parkinson’s disease, Osbourne remains committed to his music. His wife and manager, Sharon Osbourne, revealed plans for Osbourne to perform two farewell shows in his hometown of Birmingham, UK, providing fans with a final opportunity to witness his legendary stage presence.
Meanwhile, Iommi has continued to explore his musical interests, releasing a solo single titled “Scent of Dark” in 2021. Additionally, he collaborated with System of a Down vocalist Serj Tankian on a charity single called “Deconstruction” last year, showcasing his enduring creativity and passion for music.
As Osbourne and Iommi reflect on their storied careers and enduring impact on the world of rock music, their bond as musical pioneers and kindred spirits remains unbreakable. Through their timeless music and unwavering dedication to their craft, they have left an indelible mark on the music industry and inspired countless generations of musicians and fans.
