About the Song
Tucked within the glam-metal sheen of Ozzy Osbourne’s 1986 album The Ultimate Sin lies an often-overlooked anthem of rebellion and pride: “Never Know Why.” At first glance, it may sound like a straightforward hard rock track, but beneath the crashing drums and searing guitar solos is a powerful message — one that speaks directly to every fan who’s ever been judged for the music they love.
Released during the height of the MTV era, The Ultimate Sin saw Ozzy leaning into a more polished, melodic metal sound, but “Never Know Why” retains the raw edge and attitude that defined his early solo career. The lyrics are defiant from the start: “People look to me and say / Is the end near, when is the final day?” — a nod to the scrutiny Ozzy faced for years from critics, the media, and religious groups who misunderstood both his art and his intentions.
What makes the song special, though, is its focus on the bond between Ozzy and his fans. “You’ll never know why we rock,” he sings with a sneer — not out of anger, but pride. It’s a declaration that you can’t explain the connection, the catharsis, the community that rock music creates. You either feel it in your bones, or you don’t. And if you don’t, that’s your loss.
Musically, the track is driven by Jake E. Lee’s dynamic guitar work, which dances between thick riffs and melodic licks. The production leans toward glam metal — polished but punchy — with catchy hooks and Ozzy’s unmistakable vocal tone at the center: part snarl, part chant, part prophet shouting from the edge of the stage.
At its heart, “Never Know Why” is a song about belonging — about holding your head high when the world tells you your music, your style, your identity don’t fit their mold. It’s Ozzy telling his audience: “They don’t have to get it. As long as you do, we’re good.”
More than three decades later, the track still resonates. For lifelong fans of heavy music, it’s a reminder that you don’t need to explain yourself to anyone. Let the amps roar. Let the outsiders scoff. Because in Ozzy’s words, “You’ll never know why we rock.” And that’s exactly the point.