Article written by Roger Casadejús Pérez
1. Tony Iommi – Paranoid
As the legendary guitarist of Black Sabbath himself, Tony Iommi’s choice of Paranoid comes as no surprise. This album, featuring hits like “Iron Man” and “War Pigs,” is often seen as the epitome of Sabbath’s early sound. Iommi’s groundbreaking riffs on this record have set the standard for heavy metal guitarists.
2. Ozzy Osbourne – Master of Reality
Ozzy Osbourne, the iconic frontman of Black Sabbath, has often cited Master of Reality as his favorite. Known for its heavier sound and darker themes, this album showcases tracks like “Sweet Leaf” and “Children of the Grave,” which have become staples in the metal community.
3. James Hetfield – Vol. 4
Metallica’s James Hetfield regards Vol. 4 as his favorite Black Sabbath album. The album’s raw energy and experimental sounds resonate with Hetfield, who has incorporated similar intensity and innovation into Metallica’s music.
4. Lars Ulrich – Sabotage
Lars Ulrich, drummer of Metallica, expresses his admiration for Sabotage, an album known for its complex arrangements and aggressive sound. Ulrich’s drumming style has often been compared to the powerful and intricate rhythms found in this album.
5. Dave Mustaine – Sabbath Bloody Sabbath
Megadeth’s Dave Mustaine favors Sabbath Bloody Sabbath, an album that blends heavy riffs with progressive elements. Mustaine credits the dynamic range and sophisticated songwriting of this album as a significant influence on his own approach to music.
6. Kirk Hammett – Black Sabbath
Kirk Hammett, lead guitarist of Metallica, finds the self-titled debut album Black Sabbath to be his preferred choice. Its haunting atmosphere and the birth of the doom-laden sound have had a profound impact on Hammett’s guitar work.
7. Bruce Dickinson – Heaven and Hell
Iron Maiden’s Bruce Dickinson admires Heaven and Hell, the first album featuring Ronnie James Dio as the lead vocalist. Dickinson praises Dio’s powerful vocals and the album’s revitalized sound, which has influenced his own vocal style.
8. Geezer Butler – Technical Ecstasy
Black Sabbath’s bassist Geezer Butler highlights Technical Ecstasy as his favorite. Though often underrated, this album offers a more experimental sound that showcases the band’s versatility and Butler’s intricate bass lines.
9. Rob Halford – Dehumanizer
Judas Priest’s Rob Halford has a deep appreciation for Dehumanizer, an album that marks a return to the band’s heavier roots. Halford, known for his operatic vocal style, finds inspiration in the album’s powerful tracks and thematic depth.
10. Slash – Never Say Die!
Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash cites Never Say Die! as his favorite, appreciating its varied musical landscape and the band’s willingness to push boundaries. This album’s eclectic nature resonates with Slash’s diverse musical influences.
11. Tom Morello – Paranoid
Rage Against the Machine’s Tom Morello is drawn to Paranoid for its revolutionary sound and socio-political themes. Morello’s guitar playing often reflects the album’s aggressive and innovative spirit.
12. Eddie Van Halen – Master of Reality
The late Eddie Van Halen admired Master of Reality for its pioneering use of down-tuning and its heavy, sludgy sound. Van Halen’s own guitar work echoes the groundbreaking techniques found on this album.
13. Phil Anselmo – Vol. 4
Pantera’s Phil Anselmo has often mentioned Vol. 4 as a major influence on his vocal style. The album’s raw energy and emotional depth have shaped Anselmo’s approach to heavy metal vocals.
14. Zakk Wylde – Sabotage
Zakk Wylde, known for his work with Ozzy Osbourne and Black Label Society, favors Sabotage for its complex compositions and powerful riffs. Wylde’s guitar playing is heavily influenced by the intensity and creativity of this album.
15. Corey Taylor – Sabbath Bloody Sabbath
Slipknot and Stone Sour frontman Corey Taylor appreciates Sabbath Bloody Sabbath for its blend of heaviness and melody. Taylor credits the album’s lyrical and musical innovation as a significant influence on his own songwriting.
16. Ronnie James Dio – Heaven and Hell
The late Ronnie James Dio himself chose Heaven and Hell as his favorite, having been an integral part of its creation. Dio’s powerful vocals and the album’s thematic depth continue to inspire countless musicians.
17. Lemmy Kilmister – Paranoid
Motörhead’s Lemmy Kilmister had a strong affinity for Paranoid, an album that embodies the rawness and rebellious spirit that Kilmister himself championed throughout his career.
18. Dimebag Darrell – Black Sabbath
The late Dimebag Darrell of Pantera held the debut album Black Sabbath in high regard for its pioneering sound and dark, atmospheric tones that influenced his own heavy guitar style.
19. Nikki Sixx – Technical Ecstasy
Mötley Crüe’s Nikki Sixx appreciates Technical Ecstasy for its experimental nature and the evolution it represents in Black Sabbath’s sound, encouraging Sixx’s own creative exploration in music.
20. Kerry King – Dehumanizer
Slayer’s Kerry King mentions Dehumanizer as a standout album for its aggressive sound and lyrical depth, elements that have resonated with King’s approach to thrash metal.
21. Brian May – Heaven and Hell
Queen’s Brian May holds Heaven and Hell in high esteem for its blend of melody and power, elements that have influenced his own guitar work and song compositions.
Conclusion
Black Sabbath’s discography continues to be a source of inspiration for rock and metal musicians worldwide. The albums mentioned by these 21 legends not only highlight the band’s diverse and influential sound but also underscore the lasting impact Black Sabbath has had on the music industry.