Robert John Daisley, born in Sydney on 13 February 1950, established a long career as a bassist, songwriter, and composer. Although his roots lie in the Australian rock scene, he gained international recognition during the 1970s and 1980s through collaborations with various high-profile rock acts and influential work as a session musician and producer.
Early Career and International Breakthrough
Daisley transitioned from guitar to bass at age 14. His early proficiency led to work with Dennis Wilson in bands such as The Powerpact and Mecca, the latter of which released the single Black Sally. In 1971, he and Wilson formed Kahvas Jute, releasing the album Wide Open. By 1972, he moved to England, joining Chicken Shack, followed by a stint with Mungo Jerry. After co-forming the band Widowmaker, he joined Ritchie Blackmore’s Rainbow, contributing to the Long Live Rock 'n' Roll album.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Collaborations with Ozzy Osbourne
In October 1979, Daisley met Ozzy Osbourne at the Music Machine in London. Along with guitarist Randy Rhoads and drummer Lee Kerslake, they formed the foundation for the Blizzard of Ozz project. Daisley acted as a primary songwriter, bassist, and co-producer on the debut album and the follow-up, Diary of a Madman. Despite his creative contributions, he was fired before the release of the second record. Legal disputes regarding royalties and performance credits followed, lasting for several years, though he continued to record periodically for Osbourne through the 1991 album No More Tears.
Diverse Contributions and Session Work
Outside of his Osbourne tenure, Daisley maintained a steady output. In 1981, he joined Uriah Heep for the albums Abominog and Head First. He frequently recorded and toured with guitarist Gary Moore until Moore's death in 2011. He briefly contributed to Black Sabbath’s The Eternal Idol in 1986. Later projects included Mother’s Army, formed with Joe Lynn Turner, Carmine Appice, and Jeff Watson, and the group Living Loud, which featured Jimmy Barnes and Steve Morse. In 2013, he published his autobiography, For Facts Sake.
Technical Gear
Daisley has utilized Mark Bass equipment and Picato Strings since 1972. His recording history features distinct choices; the Blizzard of Ozz album was tracked using a 1961 white Gibson EB-3, an instrument he still utilizes. For most subsequent recordings, including Diary of a Madman and No More Tears, he employed a Fender Precision Bass.
Fast facts
- Born: 13 February 1950, Sydney, Australia
- Primary Instrument: Bass guitar
- Autobiography: For Facts Sake (2013)
- Notable Bands: Rainbow, Blizzard of Ozz, Uriah Heep, Living Loud
- Citizenship: Australia
- Occupations: Composer, bassist, musician, songwriter, guitarist
Questions readers ask
Which albums did Bob Daisley record with Ozzy Osbourne?
He contributed to Blizzard of Ozz, Diary of a Madman, Bark at the Moon, The Ultimate Sin, No Rest for the Wicked, and No More Tears.
Did Daisley play on Black Sabbath recordings?
Yes, he played on the 1986 album The Eternal Idol, though he shares credit on that release with Dave Spitz.
Achievements
- Instruments: bass guitar
- Genres: hard rock
