John Michael "Ozzy" Osbourne (3 December 1948 – 22 July 2025) was more than just a rock icon—he was a cultural phenomenon. Rising from the industrial heart of Birmingham, England, he became the voice of a generation disillusioned by war, poverty, and the mundane. With Black Sabbath, Ozzy helped birth heavy metal in the early '70s, their self-titled debut album sending shockwaves through music with its ominous tone, gothic imagery, and bone-rattling riffs.
Tracks like 'Paranoid', 'Iron Man', and 'War Pigs' weren’t just anthems—they were wake-up calls. His chilling vocals and outlandish stage presence made him one of the most recognizable frontmen in history.
After parting ways with Black Sabbath in 1979, Ozzy launched a solo career that would further cement his legacy. Backed by virtuoso guitarist Randy Rhoads, Ozzy dropped hits like 'Crazy Train' and 'Mr. Crowley', turning pain, chaos, and rebellion into chart-topping art. He later became a household name again in the 2000s with his family's reality TV show The Osbournes, introducing his eccentric genius to a new generation.
Despite battles with addiction, injuries, and a Parkinson’s diagnosis, Ozzy remained a towering figure in music. His final public performance on 5 July in Birmingham at Back to the Beginning was a full-circle moment—a last roar from the Prince of Darkness in the city where it all began.
His passing at age 76 was confirmed by his wife Sharon Osbourne. He died peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones—his music eternal, his influence unshakable. These were just some of music’s biggest names paid tribute to Ozzy Osbourne.
Elton John
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Jon Bon Jovi
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Rod Stewart
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Flea
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Tom Morello
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Pantera
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Wolfgang Van Halen
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Gene Simmons
Sad to report Ozzy has passed away. He was a giant. Admired and loved by millions of fans worldwide. Prayers and condolences go out to the Osborne family. https://t.co/DUywhl6eFB
— Gene Simmons (@genesimmons) July 22, 2025
Billie Joe Armstrong
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Questlove
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Ronnie Wood
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Flavor Flav
Man,,, real heart broken over the passing of OZZY OSBOURNE,,, we go way back and it was a real honor to watch him get inducted into the @rockhall last year. Sending my love and prayers to Sharon and his kids and whole family. RIP 🤍 pic.twitter.com/YVKpAz6FKg
— FLAVOR FLAV (@FlavorFlav) July 22, 2025
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