When it comes to iconic riffs in heavy metal history, few can rival the power of Ozzy Osbourne’s Bark at the Moon. Released in 1983 as the title track of his third solo album, this song features a riff that’s not only the best Ozzy Osbourne riff but also a rite of passage for any guitarist looking to master the art of metal.
Jake E. Lee stepped into big shoes when he joined Ozzy Osbourne’s band following the tragic loss of Randy Rhoads. Yet, with Bark at the Moon, Lee proved he was more than capable of carving his own legacy. The riff showcases his technical prowess and creativity, blending aggressive energy with melodic hooks that perfectly complement Ozzy’s howling vocals and the song’s horror vibe.
As the song progresses, the ending riff takes things to another level. Here, Jake E. Lee unleashes a barrage of alternate-picked, palm-muted sections that demand both speed and stamina. This creates a tight, percussive chug that’s quintessential to metal guitar playing.
Listen to the riff:
What makes this riff so essential? For one, it’s a crash course in the fundamentals of metal guitar. The alternate picking and palm muting teach precision and control, skills that translate to countless other songs in the genre. Plus, the phase of the riff is a workout for your stamina—play it at full speed, and you’ll feel the burn in both hands.
Go on and master the riff where I did so: Songsterr
What’s your favorite Ozzy Osbourne riff? Leave a comment down below!
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