About the Song
When fans look back at Ozzy Osbourne’s The Ultimate Sin (1986), they often gravitate toward the explosive singles like “Shot in the Dark.” But nestled deeper into the record is a lesser-known gem — “Never.” And like so many of Ozzy’s underrated tracks, it carries a weight and defiance that feels both personal and universal. This is a song that doesn’t just speak to rebellion in the world around us — it roars against the self-imposed prisons we carry inside.
Released during an era of excess, theatrical metal, and polished production, “Never” feels like a statement of personal revolution. It’s a song about rising above despair, silencing the noise of doubt, and reclaiming one’s voice after it’s been stolen by fear. Ozzy doesn’t shout with blind rage here — he stands tall with purpose, declaring:
“I’ll never give in / I’ll never give up / I’ll never give in — I just want to be free.”
Musically, “Never” is pure mid-’80s heavy metal: tight, rhythmic guitars by Jake E. Lee, thundering drums, and that unmistakable combination of grit and melody that defined Ozzy’s solo career in the decade. The chorus soars like an anthem, yet there’s a palpable emotional undercurrent — a sense that Ozzy isn’t just singing for entertainment, he’s singing for his own survival.
At its core, “Never” is a message to anyone who’s ever been pushed to the edge — emotionally, mentally, spiritually — and decided not to fall. It’s for those who stare down their demons and choose to fight another day. And in that sense, it belongs to a long tradition of Ozzy songs that blend darkness with hope, fear with determination.
Though it didn’t chart or get the same attention as his mainstream hits, “Never” remains a rallying cry for personal strength, echoing loudly in the hearts of fans who’ve walked through their own fire. It’s not just a song. It’s a promise.