The heavy metal world lost a legend on July 22, 2025, when Ozzy Osbourne, the iconic “Prince of Darkness,” passed away at 76, just weeks after his final performance at Villa Park. Known for his groundbreaking work with Black Sabbath and a solo career that redefined the genre, Osbourne’s legacy is monumental. While hits like Crazy Train and No More Tears dominate his discography, many of his lesser-known tracks deserve equal spotlight. Here, we dive into some of Ozzy Osbourne’s most underrated songs that showcase his vocal prowess, lyrical depth, and the virtuosic talent of his collaborators—perfect for fans looking to rediscover his catalogue.
1. Waiting for Darkness (The Ultimate Sin, 1986)
This track from The Ultimate Sin is a sinister gem that captures Ozzy’s knack for blending dark themes with catchy melodies. With Jake E. Lee’s searing guitar work, Waiting for Darkness explores a yearning for escape from the light, delivering a heavier take on the hair metal era’s sound. Fans on platforms like Reddit have praised its haunting vibe and Lee’s standout performance, making it a must-listen for those diving into Ozzy’s mid-80s work.
2. Secret Loser (The Ultimate Sin, 1986)
Another standout from The Ultimate Sin, Secret Loser is a high-energy track with an infectious riff and Ozzy’s signature vocal quirks. Featured in the 1986 sci-fi film The Wraith, it’s a song that showcases his ability to balance commercial appeal with raw metal energy. Guitarist Jake E. Lee has expressed pride in this track, noting its challenging execution, yet it remains underappreciated in his catalog.
3. Killer of Giants (The Ultimate Sin, 1986)
A poignant anti-war anthem, Killer of Giants pairs Jake E. Lee’s intricate guitar work with Ozzy’s emotive vocals to address the threat of nuclear annihilation. Its lyrical depth and melodic structure make it one of his most thought-provoking tracks, yet it’s often overshadowed by flashier singles. Fans on Quora and Reddit call it a masterpiece that deserves more recognition for its emotional weight.
4. Bloodbath in Paradise (No Rest for the Wicked, 1988)
Introducing Zakk Wylde’s blistering guitar style, Bloodbath in Paradise is a dark, aggressive track about the Manson murders. Its fast-paced energy and Wylde’s pinch harmonics bring a fresh intensity to Ozzy’s late-80s sound. Despite critical acclaim for its raw power, it’s rarely mentioned among his top hits, making it a hidden gem for metalheads.
5. S.I.N. (No More Tears, 1991)
From the iconic No More Tears album, S.I.N. is a fan-favorite deep cut that showcases Zakk Wylde’s shredding skills, especially in the outro solo. Its driving rhythm and Ozzy’s commanding vocals make it a standout, yet it’s often overlooked in favor of the album’s title track or Mama, I’m Coming Home. Reddit users frequently cite it as a track that deserves more love.