About the Song
When Ozzy Osbourne decided to cover “Mississippi Queen” for his Prince of Darkness box set in 2005, he wasn’t just tipping his hat to rock history — he was grabbing it by the collar and injecting it with a dose of pure Osbourne swagger.
Originally recorded in 1973 by the legendary hard rock band Mountain, “Mississippi Queen” is a staple of classic rock — with its crunchy riffs, cowbell-heavy intro, and Southern-fried bravado. In Ozzy’s hands, though, the song takes on a darker, more aggressive edge, swapping bluesy grit for sharp metal teeth.
From the first pounding beat, Ozzy’s version announces itself as louder, heavier, and unapologetically raw. The guitars — courtesy of longtime collaborator Zakk Wylde — are thicker and tuned down, replacing the boogie-rock vibe of the original with a wall of sound that feels very 21st century. It’s not just a remake; it’s a reimagining, filtered through the lens of a man who built his legacy pushing sonic boundaries.
Vocally, Ozzy doesn’t stray far from the melody, but his delivery is unmistakably his own — theatrical, weathered, and tinged with a sneering energy. There’s something satisfying about hearing the “Prince of Darkness” belt out a barroom anthem like this, proving that even decades into his career, he still knows how to have fun with a riff and a wink.
While it may not be the most groundbreaking moment in Ozzy’s discography, “Mississippi Queen” showcases his ability to honor the past while staying true to his own voice. It’s a heavy metal homage to a rock ‘n’ roll classic — and proof that some songs, much like some legends, never go out of style.