Ozzy Osbourne – Diary Of A Madman

Label: CBS/Jet Records  |  Catalog #: AL 37492  |  Year: 1981
Side A Matrix: AL-37492-1A-2HZ: ② DM-2

About the Artist

After his acrimonious split from Black Sabbath in 1979, Ozzy Osbourne launched one of rock's most improbable and triumphant second acts. Backed by a ferocious new band anchored by the prodigious guitar genius of Randy Rhoads, Ozzy stormed back with a vengeance. Rhoads — a classically trained guitarist from North Hollywood — brought a precision and melodic sophistication to heavy metal that had never been heard before, blending neo-classical technique with raw, thunderous riffing. Tragically, Rhoads died in a plane accident in March 1982, just months after this album's release, making Diary Of A Madman his recorded swan song and one of rock's most bittersweet masterpieces.

About the Album

Released in November 1981, Diary Of A Madman is Ozzy's second solo album and the second — and final — studio record to feature Randy Rhoads. Produced by Ozzy Osbourne, Randy Rhoads, and Max Norman, the album pushed further into progressive and orchestral territory than its predecessor Blizzard of Ozz, featuring lush string arrangements alongside crushing riffs. It reached #16 on the Billboard 200 and was eventually certified 4× Platinum in the United States. The album is widely regarded as one of the defining records of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal era and a cornerstone of early-'80s hard rock.

Track Listing & Highlights

Side A

• Over the Mountain — A blistering opener with a galloping rhythm and one of Rhoads' most electrifying solos. A fan favourite and concert staple.
• Flying High Again — A melodic hard rock anthem with an irresistible hook and a soaring, feel-good energy that became a radio hit.
• You Can't Kill Rock and Roll — A slower, brooding power ballad showcasing Ozzy's vocal range and Rhoads' delicate touch.
• Believer — A mid-tempo rocker with a hypnotic groove and a standout Rhoads guitar break.

Side B

• Little Dolls — A dark, menacing track with a thunderous riff and an unsettling lyrical edge.
• Tonight — A melodic, almost tender track that highlights the album's dynamic range.
• S.A.T.O. — A fan-favourite deep cut with a driving rhythm and intricate guitar work; the title is an acronym for "Sailing Across the Ocean."
• Diary Of A Madman — The epic, orchestral title track closes the album in stunning fashion, building from a delicate acoustic intro into a sweeping, cinematic climax. Widely considered one of Rhoads' greatest recorded performances.

Condition

Record: The vinyl has been carefully cleaned with a Spin-Clean record washer and stored in a new inner plastic sleeve. The record shows surface scuffs but played flawlessly on a quality turntable with no skips. Minor pops and crackles were noted during playback, consistent with the record's age and grade.

Jacket: The jacket is in good condition. Please note this is not the original jacket — as shown in the photos.

All items are graded honestly. Photos are of the actual item for sale.