Ozzy Osbourne, Ordinary Man | Track Review 🎵

Ozzy Osbourne taps a fellow music icon, Elton John, for “Ordinary Man,” the epic title track from his highly anticipated 12^th studio album.

At this point, Ozzy Osbourne doesn’t have anything left to prove.  He’s experienced success as a member of iconic heavy metal collective Black Sabbath, as well as a solo artist.  Still, following a ten-year hiatus (as a solo artist), Osbourne returns with his highly anticipated, 12^th studio album, Ordinary Man.  After releasing two strong singles (opener “Straight to Hell” and “Under the Graveyard”), Osbourne returns with arguably his single yet, “Ordinary Man,” featuring another iconic musician, Elton John.

“Yes, I’ve been a bad guy, been higher than the blue sky / And the truth is, I don’t wanna die an ordinary man.” Ah, “Ordinary Man” is quite an elite pop/rock record.  As the aforementioned excerpt from the chorus suggests, Ozzy Osbourne reflects on his life. Specifically, he focuses on fame, regrets and mistakes, and being in a better place now that he’s older and wiser.  “I was unprepared for fame then everybody knew my name,” he sings on the first verse, continuing, “No more lonely nights, it’s all for you.” Elton John also reflects on the rock star life, singing with strength on the second verse: “Many times, I lost control, they tried to kill my rock ‘n’ roll / Just remember, I’m still here for you.”

Vocally, and lyrically, both Ozzy Osbourne and Elton John sound fantastic.  The chorus, in particular, soars.  Beyond the vocals and songwriting, the production (Andrew Watt and Tom Herbert) – the music itself – is superb.  Between the final two chorus, there’s an idiomatic guitar solo, that hearkens back to the 70s/80s.  Maybe more impressively, there are STRINGS, as well as a CHOIR! These amplify the sound and the overall impact of the title track, making it a truly epic affair.

Final Thoughts 

To reiterate, “Ordinary Man” is an elite pop/rock record.  Ozzy Osbourne may be past his prime, but man, does he sound reinvigorated as a 71-year old.  The same can be said of Elton John, who is one year older.  “Ordinary Man” is successful thanks to the vocal performances, theme, songwriting, and production.  Ordinary Man (the album) should be a treat.

Ozzy Osbourne • Ordinary Man • Epic • Release: 2.21.20

Photo Credit: Epic