Geezer Butler Reveals Ozzy Osbourne’s Wildest Solo Career Days
Ozzy Osbourne’s solo career in the early 1980s was marked by wild behavior and unforgettable antics, according to his longtime bandmate Geezer Butler. In a heartfelt tribute penned for El-Balad, Butler reflects on the unpredictable years following Osbourne’s exit from Black Sabbath in 1979.
Ozzy’s Wild Solo Years
After leaving Black Sabbath, Ozzy launched his solo career with the album “Blizzard Of Ozz.” This period saw him embrace a reckless lifestyle, which Butler describes as the singer’s “wildest.” Among the notorious incidents were:
- Urinating on the Alamo cenotaph in Texas
- Bitten the head off a bat during a concert in Iowa
- Bitten the head off a dove in a record label meeting
- Snorting ants
These events occurred between 1980 and 1985, illustrating just how much freedom Ozzy felt once he was no longer part of the band. Butler noted that Osbourne’s wild reputation endeared him even more to his fans.
Reflections on Black Sabbath
Butler also reminisces about Black Sabbath’s formative years. The band, originating from Aston in Birmingham, achieved unexpected success, despite facing heavy criticism from music critics. Butler emphasized the strong bond among the band members, stating, “We became closer than brothers.”
Challenges of Fame
Despite their musical accolades, the band struggled to navigate their newfound fame. “None of us expected to have the success we had,” Butler recalled. He further remarked on the significant disconnect between the press’s negative views and the adoration from their fans, which ultimately united the band and their supporters.
Butler and Osbourne’s Reunion
Geezer Butler played alongside Ozzy from 1968 until 1979 and reunited with him in various capacities from 1999 to 2017. Their collaboration extended beyond Black Sabbath’s music. Butler participated in Osbourne’s “No Rest For The Wicked” tour in the late 1980s and contributed to the 1995 album “Ozzmosis.”
The Final Goodbye
Ozzy Osbourne passed away at the age of 76 on July 22, just 17 days after their concert, “Back To The Beginning,” in Aston. In a poignant social media tribute, Butler expressed gratitude for their time together, reminiscing about their humble beginnings in Aston.
Geezer Butler retired from performing live in June 2023, with “Back To The Beginning” marking his final onstage appearance. His memoir, titled “Into The Void: From Birth To Black Sabbath – And Beyond,” was also published in 2023, chronicling his journey alongside Black Sabbath and beyond.
