Band: Black Sabbath

It's doubtful that any band has contributed more to heavy metal than Black Sabbath, indeed it would be fair to say that few bands have made such an indelible mark in the music world overall. The archetypal metal band, Sabbath has influenced artists in virtually all areas of rock music, with bands from punk, hardcore and other alternative styles citing them as major influences at some point of their career. Discussion of the band's origins and sound is probably moot as any with even a casual interest in metal would be aware of the group's working-class beginnings. Black Sabbath's first six albums are undeniable classics and fans and critics alike argue to this day over which is the best. The next couple of albums suffered from boiling tensions and creative differences which ultimately led to Ozzy Osbourne's departure and bitter fifteen-year feud with the rest of the band. The Dio albums returned the band to favour for a number of years, with the lyrical focus turning toward fantasy realms and the singer's penchant for nonsense but the music was strong as ever. After Dio left the band slid from favour again; Ian Gillan split midway through the Born Again tour to join the reformed Deep Purple and Black Sabbath all but ceased to be at that point. Tony Iommi stumbled through the 80s with various line-ups but somehow Black Sabbath always maintained high quality output. The original members reformed for a tour in 1997 and there was talk of another album but this has not eventuated as various members once again explore separate paths. Black Sabbath's influence on music will be long-lasting and their legacy is never to be forgotten.

The discography below is selective, and includes only those releases actually sanctioned by the band. There are dozens of unofficial Black Sabbath compilations and live recordings.

The Mob Rules line-up reformed under the name Heaven And Hell in 2006 to tour throughout 2007.