Black Sabbath

Formed in Birmingham in 1968, Black Sabbath defined themselves through a bleak vision of horror inspired lyrics and down tuned guitars.

Their early sound blended a Gothic interpretation of the blues with slow, creeping riffs and ominous themes, creating a cavernous atmosphere that became the foundation for heavy metal and doom metal. The original lineup of Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, Bill Ward, and Ozzy Osbourne produced a series of seminal works characterized by an apocalyptic trudge and a commitment to the sinister. Following Osbourne's departure, the group revitalized their sound alongside vocalist Ronnie James Dio, introducing a more muscular, propulsive energy and theatrical delivery. Later in their career, the band returned to their bluesy, jammy roots on the album 13, which featured collaborator Brad Wilk on drums. From early occult rock to experimental progressive styles, the group remained anchors of a heavy, dark sonic universe.