Buzz Osborne, also known as King Buzzo, is an American musician and singer-songwriter born on March 25th 1964 in Montesano, Washington. He is best known as the lead singer, guitarist, and primary songwriter of the Melvins, an American rock band formed in 1983. Osborne is also known for his experimental and unique guitar playing, characterized by heavy and unorthodox tuning, multi-layered distortion, and feedback manipulation.
Osborne started playing guitar at the age of 11, inspired by bands such as Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, and The Who. He joined the Melvins in 1984, originally as a second guitarist, and quickly became the primary songwriter and lead vocalist. With the Melvins, Osborne has released 27 studio albums, numerous singles, EPs, and live albums. He has also collaborated with other artists, most notably Jello Biafra of Dead Kennedys fame.
In addition to his work with the Melvins, Osborne has released two solo albums and participated in a number of side projects. He was a member of the supergroup Fantômas with Mike Patton, Trevor Dunn, and Dave Lombardo, and a member of the band Venomous Concept with Shane Embury and Danny Herrera. He has also collaborated with Joe Preston of Earth and Sunn O))), and released two albums as part of the supergroup Shrinebuilder with Scott Kelly of Neurosis, Dale Crover of the Melvins, and Al Cisneros of Sleep.
Osborne's unique guitar style has been influential to many artists. He has been cited as an influence by bands such as Nirvana, Soundgarden, and The Smashing Pumpkins. His playing has been praised for its heavy, textural sound and unorthodox tunings, and is often described as “sludgy” and “grungy”.
Osborne is an outspoken advocate for environmental issues, and has been involved in numerous charitable causes. He is a long-time animal rights activist, and is a vegan. He is also involved in Greenpeace, and has appeared in their documentaries.
Osborne continues to tour and record with the Melvins, and has also released music with various side projects. He is widely considered to be one of the most influential figures in alternative and grunge music, and his unique guitar playing has been an inspiration to countless musicians.
