Randy Rhoads only recorded four studio albums, then five years after his death, we got to see what he could really do with the live album 'Tribute'.
Quiet Riot I and II.
Randy and his friend, bass player Kelly Garni formed Quiet Riot on 1976. These two albums where released in 1978 and are very hard to find as they where only released in Japan on the CBS/Sony label. (Rudy Sarzo appears on the cover of QR II but didn't actually play on the record.)
This compilation was released in 1992 and features some tracks off QRI and II plus previously unreleased material.
Blizzard was Ozzy's first solo album and was recorded at the Ridge farm Studio in England during March and April 1980, with Bob Daisley on bass and Lee Kerslake on drums.The production on the album was a bit rough but it showcased the raw talent of Randy perfectly. Because of the playing on this album, Randy gained 'Best New Talent award' from 'Guitar Player' magazine and best guitar player from 'Sounds' magazine in the UK.
Diary was recorded about a year after Blizzard and although bass and drums are credited to Rudy Sarzo and Tommy Aldridge, it was actually the original members on the album.
If it wasn't for Sharon Osbourne, this mastepiece may have never been recorded. Due to a lack of live work, she encouraged them to go into the studio to keep busy and to keep the band together.
I will never tire of hearing this album. it features some of the best live guitar work you will find anywhere. He seemed to have progressed so much in such a short time and this is evident when you listen to Tribute. A turbo charged Randy Rhoads plays the songs off 'Blizzard' and some off 'Diary' with more power, expression and passion than we have ever heard him before.
A ticket from the Odeon theatre in Birmingham, just a few miles from where I live. I was unaware of Randy at the time and I often wonder what I was doing that night! Whatever it was, I wish I'd been there instead, watching a genius work his magic.
Randy always seemed to be so into what he was playing! He played with so much intensity, colour and passion. A true 'feel' player.
Poster for my Randy/Ozzy tribute band'Tribute' is a band I am getting together to play the music from the album of the same name.
The band is in it's early stages but I have recruited Jim Rudge and Clavert Carvill from my old band 'Big Trouble'. This is something I feel I have to do. It's a real challenge without a doubt. It's not just about playing the right notes in the right order,
there's far to it than that.
Randy has inspired me to play again and has ignited my passion for the guitar like he did back in '86. I thank Randy
from the bottom of my heart. Hopefully I can do justice to my favourite guitarist.
Des Sherwood guitar tuition © 2000
