Few guitarists have mastered the killer guitar solo quite like Black Sabbath’s famed axe-weilder. There are far too many Tony Iommi guitar solos to include in full on this list, but we’re pretty partial to four songs in particular. Let’s dive in!
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1. “War Pigs”
Why not start out with a real banger? “War Pigs” is one of the best songs on Paranoid, and it cracks the record open with a ton of power. It has all the elements of a long-lasting hit: A memorable melody, a strong message, and some searing, powerful riffs from one of the greatest metal guitarists of a generation.
It would be easy for Iommi’s contribution to the song to stand out brazenly. However, the way he plays the guitar weaves beautifully into the song, complementing every additional element within the track.
2. “Paranoid”
What would a list of Tony Iommi guitar solos be without mentioning Black Sabbath’s claim to fame, “Paranoid”? This classic is the title track from the band’s iconic 1970 album, and it’s a great example of heavy metal at its finest.
It’s short, surprisingly radio-friendly, and memorable, even among non-fans of Black Sabbath. Iommi’s guitar track is as vital to the song as Ozzy Osbourne’s vocals and lyricism.
3. “Iron Man”
Few guitar solos are quite as memorable as Iommi’s solo in “Iron Man”. The whole of this 1970 track is legendary, but Iommi really shines as an expert metal guitarist on “Iron Man”.
We’d be bold enough to say that this is one of the most recognizable guitar riffs and solos in the history of rock music. Despite Black Sabbath’s trademark dark vibe, Iommi’s solo in “Iron Man” is surprisingly bright and colorful.
4. “Turn Up The Night”
Out of all the Tony Iommi guitar solos on this list, his contribution to “Turn Up The Night” comes from a period when Iommi wasn’t exactly fairing well. By 1981, Osbourne was out of the band and Iommi was more or less responsible for making sure Black Sabbath stuck to their signature sound. And he certainly did so with his slow-burn solo in this hit from Mob Rules.
Photo by Thomas Lohnes/Getty Images for Gibson
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