On this day February 22 1986 Ozzy Osbourne released his fourth studio album The Ultimate Sin, a record that blended heavy metal power with a polished 80s production style. The album became a commercial success reaching number six on the Billboard 200 and producing one of Ozzy’s biggest hits Shot in the Dark.
Some sources list the album’s release as February 10 or even January 27 but February 22 is generally recognized as the official date. The Ultimate Sin marked a shift towards a more radio friendly sound compared to his earlier solo albums. Tracks like Lightning Strikes and Killer of Giants still carried Ozzy’s heavy metal edge while the album’s themes of war rebellion and personal struggles resonated with fans.
Despite its success The Ultimate Sin remains the only Ozzy album that has not been officially remastered or reissued making it a rare find for collectors.
Fun fact: Shot in the Dark was originally written by bassist Phil Soussan before he joined Ozzy’s band. It became one of Ozzy’s most successful singles and a fan favorite.
Trivia question: What guitarist played on The Ultimate Sin before being replaced by Zakk Wylde on Ozzy’s next album
Some sources list the album’s release as February 10 or even January 27 but February 22 is generally recognized as the official date. The Ultimate Sin marked a shift towards a more radio friendly sound compared to his earlier solo albums. Tracks like Lightning Strikes and Killer of Giants still carried Ozzy’s heavy metal edge while the album’s themes of war rebellion and personal struggles resonated with fans.
Despite its success The Ultimate Sin remains the only Ozzy album that has not been officially remastered or reissued making it a rare find for collectors.
Fun fact: Shot in the Dark was originally written by bassist Phil Soussan before he joined Ozzy’s band. It became one of Ozzy’s most successful singles and a fan favorite.
Trivia question: What guitarist played on The Ultimate Sin before being replaced by Zakk Wylde on Ozzy’s next album
