Rock history was made still today as the world mourns the loss of Ozzy Osbourne, the iconic “Prince of Darkness” and legendary frontman of Black Sabbath, who passed away peacefully at the age of 76 on July 22, 2025, in Birmingham, surrounded by his family.
A Career Forged in Metal
Born John Michael Osbourne on December 3, 1948, in Aston, Birmingham, he rose to fame in 1968 as the original vocalist of Black Sabbath. Albums like Paranoid and Master of Reality cemented the band’s place as pioneers of heavy metal. Though ousted in 1979, Ozzy’s solo career soared with Blizzard of Ozz, featuring the anthemic “Crazy Train.” With sales exceeding 100 million records globally, he became one of rock’s most enduring figures.
Final Performance & Farewell Concert
On July 5, 2025, Ozzy took to the stage one last time at Villa Park, Birmingham, performing with Black Sabbath during their “Back to the Beginning” reunion show—broadcast live to over 40,000 fans. Confined to a throne due to Parkinson’s-induced immobility, he delivered a poignant and powerful performance that marked both the end of an era and his final bow.
Battles with Health
Ozzy had been battling Parkinson’s disease since early 2019 and had also undergone major spinal surgery in 2019. Despite his declining health, he remained determined—Kelly Osbourne even publicly refuted AI-driven rumors about her father’s imminent death days before his passing.
Tributes From Around the World
Music legends responded swiftly. Elton John, Metallica, Jack White, and others paid heartfelt tribute. Elton hailed Ozzy as a “huge trailblazer,” while Metallica led the chant: “Long live the Oz”
Legacy Beyond Music
Ozzy’s influence extended beyond heavy metal into this-day pop culture. He became a household name through MTV’s The Osbournes, gained multiple awards including inductions into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (once with Sabbath in 2006 and again solo in 2024), and received honors like the Global Icon Award at the 2014 MTV EMAs.
Ozzy Osbourne’s death marks the close of a monumental chapter in rock history. From defining heavy metal to capturing global hearts with his raw personality, his imprint remains undeniable. As tributes pour in, one sentiment rings clear: “Long live the Oz.
