Lee Kerslake: The Heavy Metal Legend

Lee Kerslake was a British drummer who was known for his work with Uriah Heep, Ozzy Osbourne, and Black Sabbath. He was a highly respected musician who was known for his powerful and dynamic drumming style. Kerslake was also a talented songwriter and producer.

Early Life and Career

Kerslake was born in 1947 in London, England. He began playing drums at a young age and quickly developed a passion for music. In the late 1960s, he joined the band Uriah Heep, which was one of the most popular bands in the world at the time. Kerslake played on some of Uriah Heep’s most famous albums, including Demons and Wizards, The Magician’s Birthday, and Sweet Freedom. He left the band in 1976.

After leaving Uriah Heep, Kerslake joined Ozzy Osbourne’s band. He played on Osbourne’s first two solo albums, Blizzard of Ozz and Diary of a Madman. These albums were massive commercial successes and helped to establish Osbourne as a major force in heavy metal music.

Black Sabbath

In 1980, Kerslake joined Black Sabbath, replacing Bill Ward. He played on the band’s albums Heaven and Hell and Mob Rules. These albums were also very successful and are considered to be some of Black Sabbath’s best work.

Kerslake left Black Sabbath in 1982 and continued to play music throughout the 1980s and 1990s. He worked with a variety of artists, including the band Ten Years After, and he also released several solo albums.

Later Years and Legacy

In the 2000s, Kerslake began to experience health problems. He was diagnosed with cancer and underwent several rounds of treatment. Despite his illness, Kerslake continued to make music. He released a new album, The Resurrection of the Metal Machine, in 2019. The album was a tribute to his late friend and former Black Sabbath bandmate, Ronnie James Dio.

Lee Kerslake died on September 19, 2020. He was 73 years old. He left behind a legacy of powerful drumming, memorable songs, and a lasting impact on the world of heavy metal music.

Kerslake’s Impact on Heavy Metal

Lee Kerslake was a highly influential drummer who helped to shape the sound of heavy metal music. His powerful and dynamic drumming style was a key element in the success of Uriah Heep, Ozzy Osbourne, and Black Sabbath. He was also a talented songwriter and producer who helped to create some of the most iconic songs in heavy metal history.

Kerslake’s legacy will continue to inspire musicians for generations to come. He was a true legend of heavy metal music and his contributions to the genre will never be forgotten.

Conclusion

Lee Kerslake was a talented and influential drummer who made a significant contribution to the world of heavy metal music. His work with Uriah Heep, Ozzy Osbourne, and Black Sabbath helped to define the sound of the genre and his legacy will continue to inspire musicians for years to come. He was a true legend of heavy metal and his contributions will never be forgotten.