The Meaning Behind The Song: Mr. Crowley by Ozzy Osbourne
When Ozzy Osbourne released his debut solo album “Blizzard of Ozz” in 1980, it marked a new era for the former Black Sabbath frontman. The album featured a number of classic songs, including “Crazy Train” and “Mr. Crowley.” The latter song, in particular, would become one of Osbourne’s most iconic tracks, thanks in part to its haunting lyrics and memorable guitar riffs.
So, what is the meaning behind “Mr. Crowley?” Here’s a closer look at the song and what it represents.
The History of the Song
Before we dive into the meaning of “Mr. Crowley,” it’s worth exploring the history of the song itself. The track was written by guitarist Randy Rhoads, who had just joined Osbourne’s band at the time. In an interview with Guitar World, Rhoads explained that the song was inspired by a book he had read about Aleister Crowley, a famous occultist and writer who lived in the early 20th century.
“I had been reading a lot of occult stuff at the time, and Aleister Crowley was one of the people that I was fascinated by,” Rhoads said. “So, the song is loosely based on him.”
Rhoads went on to describe how he came up with the music for “Mr. Crowley,” noting that he wanted the song to have a “dark, mysterious” vibe. “I went for something that was a little more moody and creepy,” he said.
The Lyrics
With that background in mind, let’s take a closer look at the lyrics for “Mr. Crowley.” Here’s the first verse:
“Mr. Crowley, what went on in your head?
Mr. Crowley, did you talk to the dead?
Your lifestyle to me seemed so tragic
With the thrill of it all.”
The song is essentially a character study of Aleister Crowley, with Osbourne asking questions about what drove him to pursue his particular brand of occultism. The chorus, with its memorable “Ooh, Mr. Crowley” refrain, adds to the song’s sense of mystery and intrigue.
Overall, the lyrics for “Mr. Crowley” paint a picture of a man who was deeply involved in the occult, with all of the danger and intrigue that entails. There are references to black magic, séances, and other spooky subjects, all of which serve to heighten the song’s sense of foreboding.
The Music
Of course, no discussion of “Mr. Crowley” would be complete without mentioning the music behind the lyrics. The song features some of Rhoads’ most memorable guitar work, with its twisting, melodic solos and heavy riffing. The track is also notable for its use of keyboards, which lend the song a haunting, almost otherworldly quality.
In terms of structure, “Mr. Crowley” is a fairly straightforward rock song, with a verse-chorus-verse-chorus-bridge-chorus structure. However, the way that Rhoads builds his guitar solos throughout the song elevates it beyond a simple rock tune and into something truly special.
The Legacy of “Mr. Crowley”
Over the years, “Mr. Crowley” has taken on a life of its own. The song has been covered by numerous bands, and it remains a fan favorite at Osbourne’s concerts to this day. It’s also worth noting that the song has become something of a rallying cry for those interested in the occult.
In a 2007 interview with Rolling Stone, Ozzy himself spoke about the legacy of “Mr. Crowley,” noting that he had always been fascinated by the subject matter of the song. “I do believe there are people who tap into magic and stuff like that,” he said.
More broadly, “Mr. Crowley” represents a moment in time when rock music was at its most dangerous and transgressive. The song’s dark subject matter and haunting melodies are emblematic of the era, and they continue to resonate with fans who are drawn to its macabre appeal.
In Conclusion
In the end, “Mr. Crowley” remains a classic song that has stood the test of time. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Ozzy Osbourne or someone who is just discovering his music, the song’s haunting melodies and eerie lyrics are sure to leave a lasting impression. While it may be based on the life and work of a controversial occultist, the song itself is a powerful and evocative piece of rock music that continues to captivate audiences around the world.
