Blizzard Of Ozz - Ozzy Osbourne

Released in 1980, "Blizzard of Ozz" is the debut solo album by the Prince of Darkness himself, Ozzy Osbourne. With the legendary Randy Rhoads as the lead guitarist, this album has become a cornerstone of heavy metal music and features some of the most memorable guitar work in the genre. Having spawned the singles Crazy Train and Mr. Crowley, Blizzard Of Ozz has become one of the most iconic and pivotal hard rock albums of all time. Join world class guitar tutor and true Ozzy fan, Danny Gill for this incredible licklibrary guitar course, covering the Randy Rhoads guitar parts from the album which changed the world, including: I Don’t Know, Steal Away (The Night) and the timeless Mr. Crowley. Here, we'll take an in-depth look at each track, discussing the scales and techniques used, as well as a special focus on Rhoads' unique style.

1. I Don't Know

This opening track kicks off with a dominant E Mixolydian riff, which sets a dark and brooding tone for the album. Rhoads makes use of palm muting, power chords, and syncopated rhythms throughout the song. The solo features a mix of alternate picking and legato runs in the E minor pentatonic scale.

2. Crazy Train

One of Osbourne's most iconic tracks, "Crazy Train" features a memorable F# minor riff, with the use of chromaticism and galloping rhythms. The solo, in A major, showcases Rhoads' tapped harmonics and double-stop bends mastery.

3. Goodbye to Romance

This introspective ballad features a simple A major arpeggiated progression, with Rhoads using arpeggios and finger-picking techniques. The solo is played in the A major pentatonic scale, incorporating hammer-ons, pull-offs, and vibrato.

4. Dee

A touching instrumental tribute to Rhoads' mother, "Dee" features a blend of classical and flamenco guitar styles in the key of D major. Rhoads employs finger-picking and arpeggiated chord progressions to create an emotional atmosphere.

5. Suicide Solution

With a driving riff in the E Dorian mode, "Suicide Solution" showcases Rhoads' ability to switch seamlessly between heavy and melodic playing. The solo employs a combination of legato and alternate picking techniques in the E minor pentatonic scale, with the use of trills and pinched harmonics for added texture.

6. Mr. Crowley

This haunting track features a dark riff in the key of D# minor, utilizing power chords and palm muting. The solos showcase Rhoads' virtuosic skills, with the use of two-handed tapping, sweep picking, slides, and legato techniques in the D# natural minor scale.

7. No Bone Movies

Featuring a groovy A Mixolydian riff, "No Bone Movies" highlights Rhoads' ability to create catchy, memorable guitar parts. The solo section showcases Rhoads' alternate picking prowess in the A minor pentatonic scale, along with string bending and vibrato for added expression.

8. Revelation (Mother Earth)

This epic track begins with a delicate, arpeggiated intro in the key of G# minor, showcasing Rhoads' finger-picking technique. As the song builds, Rhoads incorporates power chords, octave melodies, and open-string riffs. The solo, played in G# harmonic minor, features a mix of sweep picking, alternate picking, and legato techniques.

9. Steal Away (The Night)

The final track on the album, "Steal Away (The Night)" boasts an upbeat, driving riff in G major, making use of power chords and palm muting. The solo, played in G major pentatonic, incorporates alternate picking, hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides.

Randy Rhoads

The lead guitarist on "Blizzard of Ozz," Randy Rhoads, is widely regarded as one of the most influential and innovative guitarists in the history of rock and metal. His unique playing style combined elements of classical music, blues, and heavy metal, creating a distinct sound that would shape the future of the genre. Rhoads' tragically short career was marked by his extraordinary technical skill, melodic sensibility, and ability to create memorable riffs and solos that still resonate with guitarists today.

"Blizzard of Ozz" is a masterclass in heavy metal guitar playing, showcasing Randy Rhoads' exceptional talent and innovative approach to the instrument. The album has left an indelible mark on the world of guitar and continues to inspire and influence players to this day. Whether you're a seasoned guitarist or a beginner, there's something for everyone to learn and appreciate on this groundbreaking album.

Guitar techniques used on this album

Throughout the album, Rhoads employs a wide range of techniques that showcase his versatility and virtuosity. Some of the most notable techniques used on "Blizzard of Ozz" include:

• Vibrato
• Alternate picking
• Legato
• Tapped harmonics
• Double-stop bends
• Pinched harmonics
• Trills
• Two-handed tapping
• Sweep picking
• Slides
• Hammer-ons
• Pull-offs
• Palm muting
• Power chords
• Finger-picking
• Arpeggios
• Chromaticism
• Open-string riffs
• String bending

Click on any of the links to view more in depth information about these techniques, and to find more Licklibrary lessons to develop these skills.