Randy Castillo, 51; Drummer With Heavy Metal Bands

Randy Castillo, a popular drummer with leading heavy metal acts, most notably Ozzy Osbourne and Motley Crue, has died. He was 51.

Castillo died March 26 at his home in Los Angeles after a long battle with cancer.

Born in Albuquerque, he began playing music at a young age. Initially he tried the trumpet but lost interest and turned to the drums.

By the time he was in high school, Castillo was playing in local bar bands at night and distinguishing himself in school bands as well. As a senior, he was named to the All-State symphonic band.

After high school, he played in a number of bands that toured the Southwest, performing in bars and at high school dances.

Castillo emerged as a drummer with the Motels briefly in the early 1980s and then with Lita Ford’s band.

He joined Osbourne in 1986, and played with him for long periods over the next 13 years.

Castillo participated in several Osbourne albums, including “The Ultimate Sin” and “No Rest for the Wicked,” and appeared on three DVDs, including the documentary “Don’t Blame Me.”

After leaving Osbourne, Castillo toured with Motley Crue, replacing Tommy Lee.

Castillo toured with the band until he became ill with a stomach ailment.

Further tests revealed an unrelated cancer.

A report on the band in The Times said Castillo made a positive addition to the group.

“Part of their renewed strength as a band has to do with the addition of drummer Castillo,” the article said.

Over the years, he appeared with other bands, including the Wumblies and the Offenders.

Castillo is survived by his mother and three sisters, all residents of Albuquerque.