Ozzy Osbourne's 1981 album "Diary of a Madman" marked a pivotal moment in the history of heavy metal. The album, featuring the exceptional guitar work of Randy Rhoads, solidified Ozzy's solo career and left an indelible mark on the genre. The 12" vinyl LP version of the album has become a prized collector's item, cherished for its iconic cover art and its representation of a bygone era of music.
In the world of heavy metal history, few names loom as large as that of Ozzy Osbourne. The iconic singer and former Black Sabbath frontman released his second solo album, "Diary of a Madman," in 1981, and it stands as a milestone in the evolution of heavy metal music. Beyond its musical significance, the 12" vinyl LP version of the album has become a collector's gem, cherished by fans and music aficionados alike. In this article, we'll take a journey through the history of Ozzy Osbourne's "Diary of a Madman" 12" vinyl LP album.
The Birth of a Solo Career
After his departure from Black Sabbath in 1979, Ozzy Osbourne embarked on a solo career that would solidify his status as the "Prince of Darkness." His first solo album, "Blizzard of Ozz," was released in 1980 and was a commercial and critical success. Bolstered by the dynamic guitar work of a young Randy Rhoads, the album showcased Osbourne's distinctive vocal style and established him as a force to be reckoned with in the world of heavy metal.
"Diary of a Madman": The Album
Just a year after "Blizzard of Ozz," Ozzy Osbourne and his band returned to the studio to record their sophomore effort. Released on 7 November 1981, "Diary of a Madman" continued to explore the dark and macabre themes that had become Osbourne's trademark. The album featured memorable tracks like "Over the Mountain," "Believer," and "Flying High Again," all of which showcased the virtuosic guitar work of Randy Rhoads. Rhoads' innovative style, combining classical and heavy metal elements, had a profound influence on the genre and can be heard throughout the album.
A Tragic Loss
"Diary of a Madman" proved to be Randy Rhoads' final studio recording with Ozzy Osbourne. Tragically, on 19 March 1982, the world lost the talented guitarist in a plane crash. The loss of Rhoads was a significant blow to both Osbourne and the metal community. His work on the album is a testament to his remarkable talent and continues to be celebrated by fans and fellow musicians to this day.
The 12" Vinyl LP Version
The 12" vinyl LP version of "Diary of a Madman" not only preserved the iconic music but also became a collector's item and a symbol of the era of classic heavy metal. Vinyl records were the primary medium for music consumption at the time, and the album cover art, featuring a haunting image of Ozzy Osbourne, became an instantly recognizable icon. The large format of the LP allowed for stunning album artwork and an immersive listening experience, making it a cherished item for fans.
Collectors' Holy Grail
Over the years, "Diary of a Madman" 12" vinyl LPs have become sought-after collectibles. Original pressings from 1981, particularly those in pristine condition, can fetch high prices in the collectors' market. The allure of owning a piece of heavy metal history, along with the timeless music contained within, has made this vinyl LP a prized possession for fans and music enthusiasts.
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Music Genre: Prog Hard Rock Heavy Metal |
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Collector's info: This album includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and photos of Ozzy Osbourne's band |
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Album Production Information: The album: "Diary of a Madman" was produced by: Max Norman, Ozzy Osbourne, Randy Rhoads Sound engineer: Max Norman Max Norman is a legendary British record producer and sound engineer, best known for his work with heavy metal icons like Ozzy Osbourne, Megadeth, and Loudness. His signature production style, featuring powerful guitar tones and precise arrangements, helped define the 1980s metal sound. He played a key role in shaping classic albums such as Blizzard of Ozz and Rust in Peace. Read more about Max Norman.
Recorded at: Ridge Farm Studios Photography Ross Hallin, Fin Costello Fin Costello, a celebrated rock and metal photographer, is known for his iconic images of legendary bands like Deep Purple, Rainbow, and Ozzy Osbourne. With a career spanning decades, his work has graced album covers and magazines, capturing the energy and essence of rock history.
Discover more about his incredible legacy at Fin Costello Biography.
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Record Label & Catalognr: EPIC EPC 463086 , JET 237 |
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Media Format: 12" Vinyl LP Gramophone RecordAlbum weight: 220 gram |
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Year & Country: 1981 Made in Holland |
Band Members and Musicians on: Ozzy Osbourne Diary of a Madman |
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Complete Track Listing of: "Diary of a Madman" |
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The Song/tracks on "Diary of a Madman" are
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Album Cover Photo Gallery of: Ozzy Osbourne Diary of a Madman |
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| Photo of "Diary of a Madman" Album's Back Cover |
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| Photo of "Diary of a Madman" Album's Inner Cover |
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Close-up Photo of "Diary of a Madman" Record Label
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Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ). |
EPIC EPC 32780 , 1983 , Holland
Ozzy Osbourne's "Bark At The Moon" revolutionized metal in the 80s, notably integrating synthesizers. Released as a 12" Vinyl LP Album, it marked a shift in the genre's sonic landscape. Osbourne's iconic vocals, coupled with innovative synth use, defined a new era. The album's impact resonates as a milestone in metal's evolution, showcasing the artist's adaptability and pushing boundaries within the temporal and musical context of the time.
Bark At The Moon 12" Vinyl LP
Epic – EPC 450453 1 , 1987 , Europe
Ozzy Osbourne's inaugural solo masterpiece, "Blizzard of Ozz," resonates as a seminal 12" Vinyl LP Album, particularly in the Netherlands release. This 1980 production stands as a testament to Osbourne's musical prowess and collaboration with guitarist Randy Rhoads, tragically cut short in 1982. Singles like "Crazy Train" and "Mr. Crowley" showcase Osbourne's distinctive style, shaping a chapter in rock history within the temporal confines of early '80s musical evolution.
Blizzard Of Ozz (Europe) 12" Vinyl LP
JET Records JZ 36812 / AL 36812 , 1981 , Canada
Ozzy Osbourne's inaugural solo masterpiece, "Blizzard of Ozz," resonates as a landmark in the realm of heavy metal. Released in 1981 by JET Records in Canada, it marks a pivotal period in Osbourne's career. This 12" Vinyl LP Album, a prelude to guitarist Randy Rhoads' untimely departure in 1982, introduced iconic singles like "Crazy Train" and "Mr. Crowley," etching its indelible contribution within the context of the early '80s music landscape.
Blizzard Of Ozz (Canada) 12" Vinyl LP
EPIC EPC 463086 , JET 237 , 1981 , Holland
Ozzy Osbourne's 1981 album "Diary of a Madman" marked a pivotal moment in the history of heavy metal. The album, featuring the exceptional guitar work of Randy Rhoads, solidified Ozzy's solo career and left an indelible mark on the genre. The 12" vinyl LP version of the album has become a prized collector's item, cherished for its iconic cover art and its representation of a bygone era of music.
Diary of a Madman 12" Vinyl LP
Epic 473798 , 1993 , Holland
"Live and Loud" is the live album by "Ozzy Osbourne ( ex-Black Sabbath )" and release in 1993. It was the last tour album of Ozzy before his first retirement. Some of the tracks include the persons of the original Black Sabbath line-up.
Live and Loud (incl Booklet) 12" Vinyl LP
EPIC EPC 4625811 , 1988 , Holland
Released in 1988, "No Rest for the Wicked" marked a pivotal moment for British singer Ozzy Osbourne. This 12" Vinyl LP Album introduced guitarist Zakk Wylde to the band, leaving an indelible mark on Osbourne's musical journey. A blend of heavy metal prowess and Osbourne's distinctive vocals, the album's significance lies in its role as a turning point in Osbourne's career during this dynamic period in music history.
No Rest For The Wicked 12" Vinyl LP
EPIC EPC 450475 , 1987 , Netherlands
TRIBUTE is a live album, mainly drawn from a performance in Cleveland, Ohio, was released in 1987 and included live versions of "Goodbye to Romance" and "No Bone Movies", recorded in the UK with Daisley and Kerslake in 1980.
Tribute (Randy Rhoads) 12" 2LP
CBS 40532 , 1986 , -
The Ozzy Osbourne Ultimate Live Limited Picture Disc Edition offers a nostalgic glimpse into the iconic artist's performance during the Kansas 1986 video shoot. This 12" vinyl, a testament to Osbourne's musical prowess, captures the essence of that era, providing fans a unique auditory and visual experience. The limited edition picture disc stands as a collector's item, symbolizing Osbourne's enduring impact on the music scene during that significant time period.
Ultimate Live 12" Limited Edition Picture Disc
Epic EPC 26404 , 1986 , Holland
The Ultimate Sin is the fourth studio album by Ozzy Osbourne. It was released on 22 February 1986, and it was remastered and re-issued on 22 August 1995. This album features guitarist Jake E. Lee (formerly of Mickey Ratt, Rough Cutt and Dio). This is the only Osbourne album to feature bassist Phil Soussan - who wrote the album's U.S. hit single "Shot in the Dark" - and the first to feature the late drummer, Randy Castillo.
The Ultimate Sin 12" Vinyl LP