Ozzy Osbourne states significance of heaviness in a song
Andrew Watt, a prominent guitarist, producer, and co-writer, recently reflected on his experience working with the iconic Ozzy Osbourne. Having made a name for himself by collaborating with various artists, Watt had the opportunity to work closely with Ozzy on his final two solo records. Despite his success in the music industry, Watt admitted that the invitation to produce a rock album for Ozzy was a pivotal moment in his career.
Although most of his prior production work leaned towards singles and lighter genres, Watt was eager to take on the challenge Ozzy presented. Collaborating with Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne, Watt co-wrote ten tracks for the rock legend and brought in guest musicians like Slash, Tom Morello, and Post Malone to contribute to the albums. Looking back on the experience, Watt expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him by the Osbournes, acknowledging it as a significant opportunity in his career.
Reflecting on Ozzy’s genius, Watt shared that working with the rock veteran taught him valuable lessons about music production and the essential elements of a great rock song. One particular lesson that stood out to Watt was Ozzy’s emphasis on the bass. During their time in the studio, Ozzy pointed out that the bass was the most critical component in making a song heavy. Watt recalled a specific moment when Ozzy challenged his perception of rock music by asking him to identify the loudest element in a Led Zeppelin track. Contrary to Watt’s initial assumption that the drums were the loudest, Ozzy revealed that it was, in fact, the bass that played a crucial role in defining the song’s heaviness.
Through Ozzy’s guidance, Watt learned the importance of ensuring that the bass provided a solid foundation for the song, acting as the bridge between the drums and guitars. By emphasizing the role of the bass in the mix, Ozzy highlighted how it could enhance the overall sound of a track and allow the guitars to shine through effectively. Watt acknowledged the challenge of getting the bass to cut through while still maintaining the integrity of the bottom end, a balance that Ozzy carefully considered in his own music.
One of the standout tracks from their collaboration, “Under the Graveyard,” serves as a testament to Ozzy’s keen understanding of the intricate elements that contribute to a powerful rock song. Watt’s experience working with Ozzy not only allowed him to create compelling music but also provided a valuable education in music production from one of the industry’s true geniuses. Ozzy’s legacy as a music icon and his ability to impart timeless wisdom to aspiring artists like Andrew Watt continue to resonate within the music community.