Steal Away (The Night)

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Steal Away (The Night)" by Ozzy Osbourne from his iconic debut solo album Blizzard of Ozz, and the Zoo Freaks are loving this high-energy closer. This track, a fast-paced rocker, was deliberately placed as the album’s finale to leave listeners on a high note, much like ending a live set with Black Sabbath’s “Paranoid.” Osbourne himself noted, “I’ve always liked the idea of ending the album with an uptempo song,” drawing a parallel to the electrifying conclusions of his concerts. The song’s seductive and romantic lyrics, largely penned by bassist Bob Daisley, invite listeners to “escape to a paradise that’s truly free,” offering a sense of liberation and thrill. Daisley revealed he had Osbourne’s substance abuse struggles in mind while crafting the lyrics, adding a layer of personal depth to the track’s rebellious vibe.

During the recording at Monnow Valley Studio in Wales, the process for “Steal Away (The Night)” was notably smooth, though later tensions over songwriting credits and royalties emerged. Drummer Lee Kerslake’s performance shines here, with his energetic cymbal work and dynamic drumming driving the song’s relentless pace. One review praised Kerslake’s ability to balance soft and explosive moments, describing his work on this track as “brimming with energy” and showcasing a “highly perceptible organic dynamic.” A live version of the song, recorded during the Blizzard of Ozz tour, was included in the 2020 40th Anniversary Expanded Digital Edition, capturing the raw power of Osbourne’s early solo performances. Fans can stream this live cut on SoundCloud, where it remains a testament to the band’s electrifying stage presence.

Social media posts have kept the song’s legacy alive. On January 30, 2015, Osbourne’s official X account shared a throwback to a 1982 performance of “Steal Away (The Night)” at Irvine Meadows, CA, delighting fans with nostalgic footage. More recently, on April 12, 2025, a post on X highlighted the track’s tight, high-octane quality, noting its enduring appeal despite behind-the-scenes disputes. These posts reflect the song’s lasting impact and the passion of Osbourne’s fanbase, who continue to celebrate its place in heavy metal history.

Ozzy Osbourne, born John Michael Osbourne on December 3, 1948, in Birmingham, England, began his musical journey in a working-class family. Dropping out of school at 15, he held low-paying jobs and dabbled in petty crime, even serving two months in prison for burglary at 17. Music became his outlet, and after singing in local rock groups, he co-founded the band Earth with guitarist Tony Iommi. To avoid confusion with another band, they renamed themselves Black Sabbath, inspired by a Boris Karloff film. Their ominous, blues-infused sound and occult-themed lyrics defined heavy metal, with their 1970 debut album gaining traction in both the UK and US. Osbourne’s raw vocals and stage presence made him a standout, earning him the nickname “Prince of Darkness.” After being fired from Black Sabbath in 1979 due to substance abuse, he launched his solo career with Blizzard of Ozz in 1980, driven by the virtuosic guitar work of Randy Rhoads and the support of manager Sharon Arden, whom he later married.

Fans can connect with Ozzy Osbourne through his official website, where they’ll find the latest news, tour updates, and merchandise like the silver and red swirl vinyl of Blizzard of Ozz. His Facebook page shares updates and engages with over millions of followers, while his Instagram account offers glimpses into his life and career with vibrant photos and videos. On X, Osbourne interacts with fans, posting about music and milestones. For dedicated Zoo Freaks, fan communities like the Blizzard of Ozz Tribute on Facebook, with over 6,800 likes, celebrate Osbourne’s early solo work with authentic tribute performances. Another fan hub, Ozzypedia, offers detailed info on his discography and career, though it’s undergoing revisions. These platforms keep the spirit of Osbourne’s music alive for fans worldwide.