Randy Rhoads

Rhoads initially gained attention as the lead guitarist for the band Quiet Riot in the late 1970s. However, he rose to prominence when he joined Ozzy Osbourne's solo band in 1979. His guitar work on Osbourne's first two solo albums, "Blizzard of Ozz" (1980) and "Diary of a Madman" (1981), is considered groundbreaking in the realm of heavy metal.

Randy Rhoads was known for his exceptional technical proficiency, classical music influences, and inventive guitar solos. He blended neoclassical elements with traditional heavy metal, creating a distinctive style that left a lasting impact on the genre. Some of his iconic guitar passages include those in songs like "Crazy Train" and "Mr. Crowley".

Tragically, Randy Rhoads' life was cut short on March 19, 1982, when he died in a plane crash at the age of 25. Despite his relatively short career, his influence on heavy metal guitar playing is significant, and he is often cited as an inspiration by countless guitarists in the metal genre.

Randy Rhoads was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006 as a member of Ozzy Osbourne's band. His legacy endures through his recordings, and he remains a revered figure among fans of heavy metal and guitar enthusiasts.