How Ozzy Osbourne’s 1991 hit album became a defining moment in heavy metal history
In short: Released in 1991, No More Tears stands as a commercial peak for Ozzy Osbourne. Beyond its quadruple platinum success in North America, the record marked a significant collaborative era, featuring songwriting contributions from Lemmy Kilmister and Zakk Wylde. It remains a critical favorite, often cited among his finest solo works.
The album arrived on September 17, 1991, securing a position at number 17 on the British album charts and reaching number seven on the American Billboard 200. Its commercial impact was substantial, achieving quadruple platinum status from the RIAA and double platinum certification in Canada. Alongside his 1980 debut, Blizzard of Ozz, it ranks as one of his most successful solo projects in North America. Critics frequently place it in the top tier of his discography, with publications like Ultimate Classic Rock and Classic Rock ranking it as his third-best solo effort, trailing only his first two records.
The creative process behind the album involved notable collaborations. Lemmy Kilmister, the frontman of Motörhead, penned lyrics for six tracks, four of which made the final cut. Additionally, guitarist Zakk Wylde was instrumental in the songwriting. The title track features a bass intro composed by Mike Inez; although Inez appeared in promotional materials and tours, the actual bass performance on the record was provided by longtime collaborator Bob Daisley. This album also served as the final studio appearance for drummer Randy Castillo and Daisley.
The record’s legacy has been extended through various reissues and anniversaries. A 2002 version added two tracks, 'Don't Blame Me' and 'Party with the Animals,' which were originally issued as B-sides in 1991. The song 'A.V.H.' carries a personal history, with Osbourne explaining to Chris Jericho that the title refers to 'Aston Villa Highway,' a tribute to the Birmingham football club he supported during his youth. More recently, a 30th-anniversary edition of 'Hellraiser' combined vocals from Osbourne and Kilmister, utilizing a recording from the 1992 Motörhead album March ör Die.
The album's enduring reputation is reflected in its inclusion on various retrospective lists. Loudwire positioned it at number 22 on their ranking of the top 90 hard rock and metal albums of the 1990s. Its status as a cornerstone of Osbourne's career is cemented by its blend of mainstream chart success and the specific, collaborative creative energy that defined the early 1990s metal scene.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: No More Tears
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