By 1979, years of nonstop partying had taken their toll.
Black Sabbath fired Ozzy.
Most people assumed his career was over.
Instead...
He teamed up with an unknown guitar player named Randy Rhoads, and together they created one of the greatest comeback stories in rock history.
Blizzard of Ozz became an instant classic.
"Crazy Train."
"Mr. Crowley."
"I Don't Know."
Then came Diary of a Madman, proving Ozzy wasn't surviving without Sabbath...He was thriving. Unfortunately, it would not last.
One of the darkest days in Ozzy's life came on March 19, 1982.
While on tour in Florida, Randy Rhoads was killed when a small airplane struck the band's tour bus before crashing.
He was only 25 years old. Ozzy later admitted he considered quitting music entirely. Instead, he carried on, honoring Randy's legacy while continuing one of the most successful solo careers in rock history.
Some footage from that last tour is below - "Mr Crowley" LIVE!