Classic Albums – Diary of A Madman (Ozzy Osbourne)

“Diary of a Madman” by Ozzy Osbourne
Released on November 7, 1981, Diary of a Madman is the second solo studio album by British heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne and the final studio album to feature groundbreaking guitarist, Randy Rhoads. Packed full of immense riffs including, “Over the Mountain,” “Flying High Again” and “S.A.T.O,” this classic album also has some subtle and dynamic moments with the tracks, “You Can’t Kill Rock and Roll” and the heartrending power ballad “Tonight.”
In this guitar lesson course, LickLibrary veteran, Danny Gill walks you through the many highlights of each song one phrase at a time, including the multi-layered neoclassical masterclass in the legendary guitar solos throughout this classic album.

Guitar Lessons in This Course
• Over The Mountain
• Flying High Again
• You Can’t Kill Rock And Roll
• Believer – Intro & Verse
• Little Dolls
• Tonight
• S.A.T.O
• Diary Of A Madman

Guitar Lesson 1: “Over the Mountain”
This track is loaded with vibrant riffs and solos. The guitar scales here range from the natural minor to the harmonic minor, creating a dark, epic feel. The solos are intricate and feature trills, slides, and a clever mix of alternate picking.

Guitar Lesson 2: “Flying High Again”
This song features an upbeat tempo with bright tones. The main riff centers around the E minor pentatonic scale. The solo is pure Rhoads and incorporates techniques such as legato, palm-muting, and double-stop bends.

Guitar Lesson 3: “You Can’t Kill Rock and Roll”
A tribute to rock itself, the song features complex arpeggiated chord progressions and extensive use of harmonics. The solos exhibit both emotion and technique, with extensive vibrato and octave melodies.

Guitar Lesson 4: “Believer”
Using chromaticism and syncopated rhythms, Rhoads sets an ominous mood. The solo section brings in a brilliant mix of sweep picking, string bending, and pull-offs.

Guitar Lesson 5: “Little Dolls”
This track employs both power chords and barre chords to create a driving force. The lead work includes slides, hammer-ons, and pick slides for that raw energy that defines the rock sound.

Guitar Lesson 6: “Tonight”
A ballad-like song with rich arpeggios and chord progressions, “Tonight” features a beautiful blend of clean and distorted tones. The solo incorporates tapped harmonics, vibrato, and legato.

Guitar Lesson 7: “S.A.T.O.”
With galloping rhythms and dual-guitar harmonies, “S.A.T.O.” is a thrilling ride. The solos are inventive and full of two-handed tapping and dive-bombs.

Guitar Lesson 8: “Diary of a Madman”
The title track is a masterpiece in itself. From arpeggiated chord progressions to the bluesy bends in the solo, the guitar work is extraordinary. The use of altered tunings and the inclusion of classical elements make this a standout track on the album.

Lead Guitarist: Randy Rhoads
Randy Rhoads played a significant role in shaping the sound of “Diary of a Madman.” His classical training mixed with raw rock energy led to some of the most innovative guitar work in metal history. His contribution not only defined Ozzy’s solo career but also left an everlasting imprint on the genre itself.

Techniques Used in This Album
• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking, Legato
• Tapped Harmonics
• Double-Stop Bends
• Slides
• Palm Muting
• Barre Chords
• Two-Handed Tapping
• Dive-Bombs
• Hammer-Ons, Sweep Picking
• String Bending
• Power Chords
• Galloping Rhythms
• Chromaticism
• Arpeggiated Chord Progressions
• Bluesy Bends
• Octave Melodies
• Altered Tunings

“Diary of a Madman” stands as a testimony to the genius of Randy Rhoads and his innovative guitar work. It’s a must-listen and study for guitar enthusiasts who want to explore the blend of rock’s aggression and classical finesse.