Which band released the influential 1970 album "Paranoid"?

Black Sabbath released the influential 1970 album “Paranoid.” It was the English heavy metal band’s second studio album and became one of the foundational records of the genre.

The album was recorded in London in June 1970 with producer Rodger Bain, only a few months after Black Sabbath’s debut. Its core lineup featured Ozzy Osbourne on vocals, Tony Iommi on guitar, Geezer Butler on bass and Bill Ward on drums. Their combination of Iommi’s heavy riffs, Butler’s dark lyrics and Osbourne’s distinctive voice helped define early heavy metal.

“Paranoid” includes “War Pigs,” “Iron Man,” “Electric Funeral” and the title track. The title song was written quickly as an extra piece when the band needed another track, yet it became one of their signature songs.

The album was originally considered for the title “War Pigs,” but the record company reportedly preferred “Paranoid.” It was released in the UK in September 1970 and in the United States in January 1971.