Black Sabbath

Hailed as the godfathers of heavy metal, Black Sabbath's impact on the music world is immeasurable. Formed in Birmingham, England in 1968 by Ozzy Osbourne (vocals), Tony Iommi (guitar), Geezer Butler (bass), and Bill Ward (drums), the quartet revolutionized the genre with their unique blend of blues, psychedelia, and darkness. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1970, set the tone for a career that would span decades and influence countless bands. Classics like "Paranoid," "Iron Man," and "Children of the Grave" showcased the band's mastery of heavy riffs, haunting melodies, and themes that explored the shadows of human nature. As pioneers of doom metal, Black Sabbath's signature sound is characterized by Iommi's groundbreaking guitar work, which emphasized downtuned chords and eerie atmospheres. Osbourne's distinctive vocals, ranging from snarling growls to wailing shrieks, added an element of macabre theatricality to their live performances. Throughout the 1970s, the band released a string of influential albums, including "Master of Reality" (1971), "Vol. 4" (1972), and "Sabbath Bloody Sabbath" (1973). Their music's dark, brooding intensity captivated audiences worldwide, solidifying their status as one of the most iconic and enduring bands in rock history.