Randy Rhoads

Randy Rhoads was an American heavy metal guitarist best known for co-founding Quiet Riot and for his work with Ozzy Osbourne on the albums Blizzard of Ozz and Diary of a Madman.

Randy Rhoads was an American heavy metal guitarist best known for co-founding the band Quiet Riot and for his work with Ozzy Osbourne on the albums Blizzard of Ozz and Diary of a Madman. Born Randall William Rhoads, he blended classical influences with heavy metal guitar playing, becoming a highly influential figure. He died in a plane crash in 1982 at age 25 and was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021; his music remains influential among Canadian rock and metal musicians.

Early life

Rhoads was born in Santa Monica, California, in 1956. Sources identify his birth name as Randall William Rhoads.

Quiet Riot and Ozzy Osbourne

He co-founded Quiet Riot before becoming known internationally as guitarist and co-songwriter for Ozzy Osbourne's early solo recordings. His playing on songs such as Crazy Train and Mr. Crowley helped define those albums' sound.

Musical style and influence

Rhoads combined heavy metal with classical and neoclassical influences, a style that later shaped many guitarists. Major reference works describe him as a highly influential metal guitarist.

Death and legacy

Rhoads died in a plane crash in Leesburg, Florida, in 1982 at age 25. His reputation continued to grow after his death, culminating in his 2021 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction. In Canada, his recordings with Ozzy Osbourne are widely circulated and studied in music circles.