List of Black Sabbath Albums in Order of Release Date

Black Sabbath Albums in Order: Black Sabbath, an iconic English rock band formed in Birmingham in 1968, is widely celebrated as one of the pioneers of heavy metal. Renowned for their dark, occult-inspired themes, thunderous riffs, and innovative use of down-tuned guitars, the band revolutionized the music landscape.

Their journey began with their self-titled debut album Black Sabbath (1970), followed swiftly by the seminal Paranoid (1970) and Master of Reality (1971), albums that defined the heavy metal genre. Over their career, Black Sabbath released 19 studio albums, each reflecting the band’s evolution amidst numerous lineup changes, with guitarist Tony Iommi as the consistent driving force.

Exploring Black Sabbath Albums in Order reveals a rich tapestry of musical innovation, from the raw power of their early records to the experimental styles of Sabbath Bloody Sabbath (1973) and Technical Ecstasy (1976). The band’s legacy continued through the Dio-led era with Heaven and Hell (1980), culminating in their final studio release, 13 (2013), which marked a triumphant reunion with original vocalist Ozzy Osbourne.

With over 70 million records sold and numerous accolades, Black Sabbath remains a cornerstone of heavy metal history. So, if you are a die heart fan of Black Sabbath Albums then check out here we have list of Black Sabbath albums in order of release so far.

All Black Sabbath Albums Available on:  Apple Music 

Also See: Metallica Albums in Order

How many albums does Black Sabbath have?

The discography of Black Sabbath, an English heavy metal band, includes Nineteen (19) studio albums, eight live albums, 13 compilation albums, nine video albums, three extended plays and 37 singles.

The List of Black Sabbath Albums in Order of Release Date

Here is the list of Black Sabbath Album in Order of Release Date:

1. Black Sabbath — 13 February 1970
2. Paranoid — 18 September 1970
3. Master of Reality — 21 July 1971
4. Vol. 4 — 25 September 1972
5. Sabbath Bloody Sabbath — 1 December 1973
6. Sabotage — 28 July 1975
7. Technical Ecstasy — 25 September 1976
8. Never Say Die! — 28 September 1978
9. Heaven and Hell — 25 April 1980
10. Mob Rules — 4 November 1981
11. Born Again — 7 August 1983
12. Seventh Star — 28 January 1986
13. The Eternal Idol — 1 November 1987
14. Headless Cross — 1 April 1989
15. Tyr — 20 August 1990
16. Dehumanizer — 22 June 1992
17. Cross Purposes — 31 January 1994
18. Forbidden — 8 June 1995
19. 13 — 10 June 2013

All Black Sabbath Albums List in Order

---

1. Black Sabbath (1970)

Tracks

European edition

1. Black Sabbath
2. The Wizard
3. Behind the Wall of Sleep
4. N.I.B.
5. Evil Woman
6. Sleeping Village
7. Warning

North American edition

1. Black Sabbath
2. The Wizard
3. Wasp / Behind the Wall of Sleep / Bassically / N.I.B.
4. Wicked World
5. A Bit of Finger / Sleeping Village / Warning

Black Sabbath’s self-titled debut album, released in February 1970, marks a pivotal moment in music history, heralding the birth of heavy metal. Widely acclaimed as the genre’s inaugural album, its opening track, ‘Black Sabbath,’ is hailed as the genesis of doom metal. Achieving chart success, the album peaked at number eight on the UK Albums Charts and reached number 23 on the US Billboard Top LPs chart. Recognized in Robert Dimery’s ‘1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die,’ this groundbreaking release remains a cornerstone, etching its place as a seminal work in the evolution of heavy music.

2. Paranoid (1970)

Tracks

1. War Pigs
2. Paranoid
3. Planet Caravan
4. Iron Man
5. Electric Funeral
6. Hand of Doom
7. Rat Salad
8. Fairies Wear Boots

Released in 1970, ‘Paranoid’ stands as Black Sabbath’s seminal second studio album, featuring iconic tracks like ‘Iron Man,’ ‘War Pigs,’ and the title song, which soared to number 4 on the UK charts. Recognized as a cornerstone of heavy metal, it’s hailed for shaping the genre’s evolution and remains a pivotal influence. Its impact endures, with Rolling Stone ranking it 139th on their ‘500 Greatest Albums of All Time’ and claiming the top spot on the ‘100 Greatest Metal Albums of All Time’ list in 2017. Notably, ‘Paranoid’ reigned atop the UK Albums Chart, marking Black Sabbath’s chart-topping prowess until the arrival of ’13’ in 2013.

3. Master of Reality (1971)

Tracks

1. Sweet Leaf
2. After Forever
3. Embryo
4. Children of the Grave
5. Orchid
6. Lord of This World
7. Solitude
8. Into the Void

Released in August 1971, ‘Master of Reality’ by Black Sabbath is a pivotal third studio album lauded for pioneering doom, stoner, and sludge metal. Produced by Rodger Bain at London’s Island Studios, the album’s downtuned guitars and bass resulted in a ‘bigger, heavier sound,’ according to guitarist Tony Iommi. Despite initial critical backlash, it soared to UK’s Top 5 and US Billboard 200’s Top 10. Over time, it earned acclaim as one of heavy metal’s greatest works, achieving double platinum status by selling over two million copies. This album stands as a cornerstone, solidifying Black Sabbath’s influential mark on the genre.

4. Vol. 4 (1972)

Tracks

1. Wheels of Confusion
2. Tomorrow’s Dream
3. Changes
4. FX
5. Supernaut
6. Snowblind
7. Cornucopia
8. Laguna Sunrise
9. St. Vitus Dance
10. Under the Sun

“Vol. 4,” Black Sabbath’s fourth studio album, debuted in September 1972, marking a pivotal shift as guitarist Tony Iommi took on production duties, a departure from their previous albums produced by Rodger Bain. Though credited as co-producer, the band’s manager, Patrick Meehan, had minimal involvement. This album showcased a departure from their signature dark themes, exploring diverse musical styles and lyrical themes. “Vol. 4” remains a significant chapter in the band’s evolution, offering a compelling glimpse into their experimentation and departure from their established sound.

5. Sabbath Bloody Sabbath (1973)

Tracks

1. Sabbath Bloody Sabbath
2. A National Acrobat
3. Fluff
4. Sabbra Cadabra
5. Killing Yourself to Live
6. Who Are You?
7. Looking for Today
8. Spiral Architect

Sabbath Bloody Sabbath, Black Sabbath’s fifth studio album, debuted in November 1973, produced and recorded at London’s Morgan Studios in September that year. The album’s genesis faced hurdles amidst substance abuse and exhaustion post their global tour for ‘Vol. 4’. Starting in Los Angeles, the writing process shifted to Clearwell Castle in Gloucestershire, England, where Tony Iommi birthed the iconic riff for the title track and lead single. This transformative album, blending eerie atmospheres and heavy riffs, marked a pivotal creative moment for the band, showcasing their resilience and musical evolution amidst personal challenges.

6. Sabotage (1975)

 

Tracks

1. Hole in the Sky
2. Don’t Start (Too Late)
3. Symptom of the Universe
4. Megalomania
5. Thrill of It All
6. Supertzar
7. Am I Going Insane (Radio)
8. The Writ

Sabotage, Black Sabbath’s sixth studio album, arrived in July 1975 amid a tense legal dispute with ex-manager Patrick Meehan, influencing its thematic essence. The strain of the legal battle seeped into the recording sessions, lending weight to the album’s title. Co-produced by guitarist Tony Iommi and Mike Butcher, its creation was infused with the tension and stress faced during this tumultuous period. Despite the adversity, the album stands as a testament to the band’s resilience, showcasing their ability to channel hardships into their music, delivering a compelling addition to their discography.

7. Technical Ecstasy (1976)

Tracks

1. Back Street Kids
2. You Won’t Change Me
3. It’s Alright
4. Gypsy
5. All Moving Parts (Stand Still)
6. Rock ‘n’ Roll Doctor
7. She’s Gone
8. Dirty Women

“Technical Ecstasy,” Black Sabbath’s seventh studio album, released on September 25, 1976, was helmed by guitarist Tony Iommi. Despite mixed critical reception, the record proved a commercial triumph, hitting number 13 on the UK Albums Chart and securing the 51st spot on the US Billboard 200. Recognized by the RIAA with Gold certification in 1997, the album showcased the band’s experimental inclinations. While opinions varied among critics, its success underscored Black Sabbath’s enduring appeal and marked another milestone in their discography within the evolving heavy metal landscape of the time.

8. Never Say Die! (1978)

Tracks

1. Never Say Die
2. Johnny Blade
3. Junior’s Eyes
4. A Hard Road
5. Shock Wave
6. Air Dance
7. Over to You
8. Breakout
9. Swinging the Chain

Released on 29 September 1978, ‘Never Say Die!’ marked the finale for Black Sabbath’s original lineup and Ozzy Osbourne’s departure until their 2013 reunion album, ’13.’ Achieving Gold status in the U.S. in 1997, it sold 133,000 copies there by November 2011. Despite commercial success, the album faced critical ambivalence, labeled ‘unbalanced’ for its varied energy. Critics lamented the lack of cohesion, citing a scattered focus. This eighth studio album, while significant as the band’s farewell with Osbourne at the helm, elicited mixed reviews, reflecting a departure in sound and a pivotal transition in the band’s history.

9. Heaven and Hell (1980)

Tracks

1. Neon Knights
2. Children of the Sea
3. Lady Evil
4. Heaven and Hell
5. Wishing Well
6. Die Young
7. Walk Away
8. Lonely Is the Word

“Heaven and Hell,” Black Sabbath’s ninth studio album, debuted in 1980, marking the introduction of vocalist Ronnie James Dio after Ozzy Osbourne’s departure. Produced by Martin Birch, it became a commercial triumph, hitting number 28 on the Billboard 200 and earning platinum status in the US with over a million copies sold. In the UK, it achieved silver certification by the British Phonographic Industry in April 1982, showcasing solid sales. This album not only marked a significant transition for the band with Dio’s powerful vocals but also underscored their enduring popularity, resonating strongly with fans on both sides of the Atlantic.

10. Mob Rules (1981)

Tracks

1. Turn Up the Night
2. Voodoo
3. The Sign of the Southern Cross
4. E5150
5. The Mob Rules
6. Country Girl
7. Slipping Away
8. Falling Off the Edge of the World
9. Over and Over

Black Sabbath’s ‘Mob Rules,’ their tenth studio album, debuted in November 1981, succeeding ‘Heaven and Hell’ from the prior year. This release marked the second appearance of lead singer Ronnie James Dio and introduced drummer Vinny Appice. Both departed until their return for the 1992 album ‘Dehumanizer.’ Produced and engineered by Martin Birch, the album garnered a remastered Deluxe Edition in 2010 and an expanded release in 2021, showcasing the band’s evolving sound and Dio’s influential presence within Black Sabbath’s storied discography.

11. Born Again (1983)

Tracks

1. Trashed
2. Stonehenge
3. Disturbing the Priest
4. The Dark
5. Zero the Hero
6. Digital Bitch
7. Born Again
8. Hot Line
9. Keep It Warm

Black Sabbath’s ‘Born Again,’ released in September 1983, stands as their eleventh studio album and the sole recording featuring vocalist Ian Gillan from Deep Purple. Notably, it marks the departure of bassist Geezer Butler and drummer Bill Ward for nearly a decade, although Ward contributed to a later live album. Despite mixed critical reception, the album soared commercially, peaking at No. 4 on the UK charts and securing a top 40 spot in the US. In a recent update, guitarist Tony Iommi confirmed the recovery of the original master tapes, hinting at a possible remix for a future re-release of this pivotal album.

12. Seventh Star (1986)

Tracks

1. In for the Kill
2. No Stranger to Love
3. Turn to Stone
4. Sphinx (The Guardian)
5. Seventh Star
6. Danger Zone
7. Heart Like a Wheel
8. Angry Heart
9. In Memory…

“Seventh Star,” Black Sabbath’s twelfth studio album, emerged in January 1986 amid a lineup shift, showcasing Tony Iommi, Geoff Nicholls, Eric Singer, and Dave Spitz. Notably, it marked a departure as it featured ex-Deep Purple vocalist Glenn Hughes, replacing departed Geezer Butler. Originally planned as Iommi’s solo debut, pressures from Warner Bros. Records led to its release as Black Sabbath featuring Tony Iommi. Despite production challenges, the album attained moderate commercial success, peaking at #27 in the UK and #78 on the Billboard 200 chart, reflecting a transitional phase for the band in the absence of Butler’s lyrical prowess.

13. The Eternal Idol (1987)

 

Tracks

1. The Shining
2. Ancient Warrior
3. Hard Life to Love
4. Glory Ride
5. Born to Lose
6. Nightmare
7. Scarlet Pimpernel
8. Lost Forever
9. Eternal Idol

The Eternal Idol, Black Sabbath’s 13th studio album, debuted in November and December 1987 (UK and US respectively), marking vocalist Tony Martin’s debut. The album lingered on the Billboard 200 chart for six weeks, peaking at 168. Notably, it was the band’s final Warner Bros. Records release in North America and the last under their original label Vertigo Records until 2013’s ’13.’ Serving as a transition in the band’s history, this album signified a shift in lineup and label, encapsulating a pivotal moment before their subsequent ventures into new creative territories.

14. Headless Cross (1989)

Tracks

1. The Gates of Hell
2. Headless Cross
3. Devil & Daughter
4. When Death Calls
5. Kill in the Spirit World
6. Call of the Wild
7. Black Moon
8. Nightwing
9. Cloak and Dagger

“Headless Cross,” Black Sabbath’s 14th studio album, emerged in April 1989, marking vocalist Tony Martin’s second appearance and introducing drummer Cozy Powell. Notably, it’s the sole album featuring bassist Laurence Cottle. This release showcased a revitalized sound, blending the band’s signature heavy metal with a darker, more melodic tone. Tracks like the title song and “Devil & Daughter” highlighted their sonic evolution, earning praise for Tony Martin’s vocals and powerful instrumentals. While not a commercial chart-topper, “Headless Cross” remains a pivotal record in the band’s discography, solidifying Black Sabbath’s resilience and continued exploration within the heavy metal genre.

15. Tyr (1990)

Tracks

1. Anno Mundi
2. The Law Maker
3. Jerusalem
4. The Sabbath Stones
5. The Battle of Tyr
6. Odin’s Court
7. Valhalla
8. Feels Good to Me
9. Heaven in Black

Tyr, Black Sabbath’s fifteenth studio album, unleashed on August 20th, 1990 via I.R.S. Records, tantalized fans with its nods to Norse mythology. Despite assumptions of a concept album due to its title and thematic song titles, bassist Neil Murray clarified in 2005 that the album wasn’t intended as a cohesive mythological narrative. While elements of Norse mythology color the album’s songs, it’s not a concept record. Despite this, the album intrigued listeners with its loose connections to the mythos, showcasing the band’s musical prowess and thematic exploration, diverging from a definitive thematic structure.

16. Dehumanizer (1992)

Tracks

1. Computer God
2. After All (The Dead)
3. TV Crimes
4. Letters from Earth
5. Master of Insanity
6. Time Machine
7. Sins of the Father
8. Too Late
9. “I”
10. Buried Alive

“Dehumanizer,” Black Sabbath’s sixteenth studio album, debuted in June 1992, marking a decade-long return for vocalist Ronnie James Dio and drummer Vinny Appice. Geezer Butler’s reappearance after nine years completed the lineup, effectively reuniting the Mob Rules era. Initially conceived with Cozy Powell on drums, Appice stepped in due to Powell’s injury, reshaping the album’s direction. Recorded at Monnow Valley Studios in Wales after intensive writing and demo sessions, the album stands as a testament to the band’s enduring chemistry.

The lineup resurfaced in 2006 for “Black Sabbath: The Dio Years” and later crafted “The Devil You Know” in 2009 under the banner Heaven & Hell. A reissue with additional content followed in 2011.

17. Cross Purposes (1994)

Tracks

1. I Witness
2. Cross of Thorns
3. Psychophobia
4. Virtual Death
5. Immaculate Deception
6. Dying for Love
7. Back to Eden
8. The Hand That Rocks the Cradle
9. Cardinal Sin
10. Evil Eye

Cross Purposes, Black Sabbath’s seventeenth studio album, emerged via I.R.S. Records on January 31, 1994. Signaling Tony Martin’s return as lead vocalist following Ronnie James Dio’s departure, the album epitomized the band’s resilient spirit. With Martin’s commanding vocals, the album navigated a return to their signature heavy sound, exploring themes of conflict and resolution. Despite mixed critical reception, it showcased the band’s enduring musical prowess and dedication to their roots, offering a powerful testament to their ability to evolve while staying true to their distinctive style.

18. Forbidden (1995)

Tracks

1. The Illusion of Power
2. Get a Grip
3. Can’t Get Close Enough
4. Shaking Off the Chains
5. I Won’t Cry for You
6. Guilty as Hell
7. Sick and Tired
8. Rusty Angels
9. Forbidden
10. Kiss of Death

Released in June 1995, ‘Forbidden’ marked Black Sabbath’s 18th studio album and a reunion of their Tyr-era lineup. With Neil Murray and Cozy Powell returning, it was the swansong for vocalist Tony Martin and keyboardist Geoff Nicholls until the band’s 2013 resurgence. Despite a modest debut of 21,000 US copies and total sales of 191,000 by 2013, ‘Forbidden’ faced widespread criticism from both fans and critics. The album triggered a period of lineup changes and career uncertainty. Nonetheless, it set the stage for eventual reconciliation between original vocalist Ozzy Osbourne and guitarist Tony Iommi, marking a pivotal moment in the band’s trajectory.

19. 13 (2013)

Tracks

1. End of the Beginning
2. God Is Dead?
3. Loner
4. Zeitgeist
5. Age of Reason
6. Live Forever
7. Damaged Soul
8. Dear Father

Black Sabbath’s ’13,’ their nineteenth and final studio album, marked a triumphant return after an 18-year hiatus, releasing on June 10, 2013, via Vertigo Records. This album reunited the iconic band’s original lineup with Ozzy Osbourne and Geezer Butler, the first since their live album ‘Reunion’ in 1998. Initially in the works since 2001 with producer Rick Rubin, delays ensued as Osbourne pursued his solo career. Drummer Brad Wilk joined due to Bill Ward’s absence, and despite production criticisms, singles like “God Is Dead?” garnered acclaim. The album claimed the Grammy for Best Metal Performance and soared to number-one status across various countries, certifying gold and platinum worldwide.

All Black Sabbath Tours in Order by Year

“Black Sabbath Tours in Order” chronicles the legendary band’s iconic live performances, tracing their evolution from early days at Ungano’s club in New York to their epic final show in Birmingham during “The End Tour” in 2017. Notable tours include the 1970 “Paranoid Tour,” fueled by the chart-topping success of “Iron Man,” and the 1974 California Jam festival during their peak. The tumultuous “Never Say Die!” tour marked Ozzy Osbourne’s temporary departure, while the “Heaven & Hell Tour” showcased Dio’s electrifying influence. From the groundbreaking Russia tour in 1989 to their monumental reunion, this comprehensive history highlights Black Sabbath’s enduring impact on rock history.

Here is the list of Black Sabbath tours in order by year:

1. Polka Tulk Blues/Earth Tour 1968–1969
2. Black Sabbath Tour 1970
3. Paranoid Tour 1970–1971
4. Master of Reality Tour 1971–1972
5. Vol. 4 Tour 1972–1973
6. Sabbath Bloody Sabbath Tour 1973–1974
7. Sabotage Tour 1975–1976
8. Technical Ecstasy Tour 1976–1977
9. Never Say Die! Tour 1978
10. Heaven & Hell Tour 1980–1981
11. Mob Rules Tour 1981–1982
12. Born Again Tour 1983
13. Seventh Star Tour 1986
14. Eternal Idol Tour 1987
15. Headless Cross Tour 1989
16. Tyr Tour 1990
17. Dehumanizer Tour 1992
18. Cross Purposes Tour 1994
19. Forbidden Tour 1995
20. Ozzfest Tour 1997
21. European Tour 1998
22. Reunion Tour 1998–1999
23. Ozzfest Tour 1999
24. U.S. Tour 1999
25. European Tour 1999
26. Ozzfest Tour 2001
27. Ozzfest Tour 2004
28. European Tour 2005
29. Ozzfest Tour 2005
30. Black Sabbath Reunion Tour, 2012–2014
31. The End Tour 2016–2017

Conclusion:

In exploring Black Sabbath Albums in Order, it’s clear that the band’s legacy as pioneers of heavy metal is unparalleled. From their self-titled debut in 1970 to their final album, 13 in 2013, Black Sabbath redefined the genre through their innovative sound, dark themes, and powerful performances. Albums like Paranoid and Master of Reality solidified their influence, while later works like Heaven and Hell and Dehumanizer showcased their adaptability with new members. Despite numerous lineup changes, Tony Iommi’s enduring presence anchored their evolution. Their discography remains a testament to their groundbreaking artistry and lasting impact on rock and metal music.

---

Thanks for Visit!