About the Song
Released in 1981 on Ozzy Osbourne’s second solo album Diary of a Madman, “Flying High Again” became one of his defining early-’80s anthems — a track that perfectly blends the rebellious spirit of heavy metal with an infectious, arena-ready hook. Coming off the massive success of Blizzard of Ozz, Ozzy reunited with his powerhouse band, led by guitar virtuoso Randy Rhoads, to deliver a song that would not only dominate rock radio but also become a permanent fixture of his live shows.
From the very first riff, Randy Rhoads sets the tone with his signature mix of precision, melody, and fire, crafting a guitar line that is instantly recognizable. The driving rhythm section and punchy tempo make the track a burst of unrelenting energy, while Ozzy’s distinctive, soaring vocals carry the melody with a mix of swagger and joy. It’s a song that feels like both a celebration and a challenge — daring anyone to stop the momentum.
Lyrically, “Flying High Again” has often been interpreted in multiple ways. On the surface, it can be read as a nod to the freedom and rush of living life on your own terms, an anthem for anyone embracing their own path without apology. Some see it as a sly wink to Ozzy’s rock-and-roll excesses, while others hear it as a broader declaration of personal liberation and resilience. Whatever the interpretation, the spirit is the same — it’s about rising above constraints and embracing the thrill of the ride.
Musically, the song captures the essence of early-’80s hard rock: crisp production, a big, sing-along chorus, and a blazing guitar solo that remains one of Rhoads’ finest moments. The interplay between Ozzy’s voice and Rhoads’ guitar is electric, with each pushing the other to greater heights.
Over four decades later, “Flying High Again” still soars as a fan favorite and a symbol of Ozzy’s creative peak. It represents a time when he and his band were firing on all cylinders, redefining what heavy metal could sound like while keeping it irresistibly catchy.
In the grand arc of Ozzy’s career, “Flying High Again” isn’t just another hit — it’s a celebration of survival, energy, and the unstoppable rush of rock and roll, forever lifted by the wings of Randy Rhoads’ timeless guitar work.