ozzalike

Ozzalike is a term used to describe a style of music that draws heavily from the sound and aesthetic of the British rock band Black Sabbath. The term itself is a portmanteau of "Ozzy," referring to Black Sabbath's iconic frontman Ozzy Osbourne, and "like," indicating a resemblance or emulation.

Music considered ozzalike typically features slow, heavy, and distorted guitar riffs, often with a dark or doom-laden atmosphere. Basslines are usually prominent and follow the guitar, while drumming is often straightforward and powerful. Lyrical themes commonly explore darkness, fantasy, the occult, or social commentary, delivered with a gruff or sometimes melodic vocal style. The overall sound aims to capture the raw, powerful, and sometimes unsettling essence of early Black Sabbath.

The ozzalike style emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s with the rise of the doom metal and stoner rock genres. Bands seeking to recapture the primal energy of Black Sabbath's initial output began to adopt these characteristics. While the term can be applied broadly, it specifically points to a direct lineage and homage to Black Sabbath's foundational sound, distinguishing it from other heavy music subgenres that may have different influences. It remains a recognized descriptor within heavy music communities for bands that clearly pay tribute to the pioneers of heavy metal.