Bob Daisley on Ozzy Osbourne's Golden Decade

A Lasting Legacy of Music and Friendship

Bob Daisley played a pivotal role in shaping the musical journey of Ozzy Osbourne after his departure from Black Sabbath in 1979. As a bassist and songwriter, Daisley was instrumental in forming the band that would appear on Ozzy’s debut solo album, Blizzard of Ozz, and remained a key figure through the 1980s. Now, following Ozzy’s passing on July 22, 2025, Daisley is the last surviving member from the original Blizzard of Ozz era.

Reflecting on his initial meeting with Ozzy, Daisley shared, “It just felt like it was all meant to happen.” Whether by fate or coincidence, the impact of Daisley on Ozzy’s music was undeniable. Albums such as Blizzard of Ozz and its follow-up, Diary of a Madman, featuring Randy Rhoads on electric and acoustic guitar, Lee Kerslake on drums, along with Ozzy and Daisley, showcased a unique chemistry that defined a new era of rock music.

Daisley described the group's dynamic as a “good pudding,” emphasizing that their collaboration was natural and effortless. “It was a special relationship. It didn’t need forcing or consciously making an effort. It was a real, comfortable, natural process.” The music they created together set the stage for everything that followed, laying the foundation for Ozzy’s future success.

Despite being fired by Ozzy and his wife/manager, Sharon, in the early 1980s, Daisley was often brought back for various projects. He contributed as a bassist and songwriter to albums like Bark at the Moon, The Ultimate Sin, No Rest for the Wicked, and No More Tears. However, the relationship between Daisley and Ozzy became strained over time, leading to legal battles and a rift that ultimately ended their partnership.

“I always had the idea or hoped for a possible reconciliation or getting back together or doing something together before the end,” Daisley admitted. “But it wasn’t to be.” Despite the challenges, he emphasized the importance of the legacy they left behind. “The most important thing that we left behind is the legacy — the music, what we gave people, how many people we reached, and the positive effect that it has on millions of people.”

Ozzy’s death brought back a flood of memories for Daisley. “It brings up a lot of past memories and thoughts, and nostalgia. It brought me to tears the day that I found out because Ozzy and I had done so much together.” While some fans felt Daisley should have been included in the Back to the Beginning tour, he acknowledged that it was not something he expected. “I didn’t expect to be mentioned at the induction at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and I didn’t expect to be invited to Back to the Beginning.”

Daisley also reflected on the last civil interaction he had with Ozzy. “We just sat and chatted. It was pleasant. It was nice. It was friendly. Even then, we were talking about old times.” Though there were difficult moments, Daisley expressed that he did not feel bitter or angry about the past. “I’m really pleased, actually, that I felt sad. I didn’t feel bitter or angry about anything that had gone on.”

When asked about the secret to their lasting connection, Daisley attributed it to chemistry and personality. “I think it was just a chemistry and a personality thing.” Their bond was evident in the way they worked together, especially with Randy Rhoads. “As soon as Ozzy, Randy and I started writing songs together, it felt like it was fate.”

Daisley also emphasized that the Blizzard of Ozz and Diary of a Madman albums were not solely the work of Ozzy and Randy. “I didn’t just write lyrics. Randy and I used to sit on a chair opposite each other and work out all the music together.” He credited the entire team for the success of those records, stating that no one element could have achieved the same result alone.

Ozzy’s mental state during this period was challenging, but Daisley and others helped keep his spirits up. “He was unsure of himself, and I suppose he had lost a certain amount of confidence having been fired from Black Sabbath.” Through humor, support, and creative collaboration, they managed to lift him and continue creating music that resonated with fans around the world.

Even after Randy’s death, Daisley continued to work with Ozzy, collaborating with guitarists like Jake E. Lee and Zakk Wylde. He noted that while the vibe changed slightly, the essence of the music remained intact. “Trying to copy Randy would have been a fool’s game. He still made the songs obviously recognizable, but with his flavor and style.”

Ultimately, Daisley hopes people understand that Blizzard of Ozz was a true band, not just a group of backing musicians. “It was four integral ingredients of Randy, Lee, myself and Ozzy. And it wouldn’t have been the same without any one of us.” The legacy of those albums continues to inspire, and Daisley feels honored to have been part of it.

While the past was filled with challenges, Daisley now focuses on the positive memories and the impact of the music they created. “Now it’s the good feelings that take precedence.”