Following Sarzo’s departure from Osbourne’s band, a severe schism formed between the two, owing in part to Quiet Riot vocalist Kevin DuBrow’s relentless criticism of Osbourne in the heavy metal press.

Metal Health was released in March 1983 and went on to become a multi-platinum international hit, kicking off an era of explosive commercial success for heavy metal in the 1980s. Sarzo became disillusioned with Osbourne’s excessive drinking after Rhoads died in a plane crash in 1982, and began to doubt his future in the band without Rhoads. Sarzo is listed as the bassist on Osbourne’s 1981 studio album Diary of a Madman’s, while Bob Daisley actually played bass on the recordings. On OzzyOsbourne’s Speak of the Devil and Tribute live albums, he can be heard playing. Sarzo gained to prominence as Osbourne’s bassist from March 1981 until September 1982, after being recruited on Rhoads’ advice.