Ozzy Osbourne (1948–2025): The Prince of Darkness Passes On
July 22, 2025 – Age 76
Rock music mourns the loss of Ozzy Osbourne, iconic frontman of Black Sabbath and a towering figure in heavy metal. He passed away peacefully at home in the United Kingdom, surrounded by his devoted family.
A Farewell Fit for a Legend
Just weeks before his death, Ozzy reunited with the original Black Sabbath lineup for a heartfelt farewell concert in Birmingham. The event, their first together in two decades, also raised funds for Parkinson’s research, children’s hospitals, and local hospices. Despite years of health challenges—including Parkinson’s disease, mobility issues from a past injury, and a serious fall—Ozzy performed seated on a throne, delivering moving renditions of classics like Crazy Train, War Pigs, and Paranoid.
From Birmingham to Global Icon
Born John Michael Osbourne, Ozzy helped shape the heavy metal sound of the 1970s with Black Sabbath. Albums including Paranoid, Master of Reality, and Sabbath Bloody Sabbath became foundational to the genre.
After leaving Sabbath in 1979, he embarked on a wildly successful solo career, releasing hits like Crazy Train and Mr. Crowley. He also became a pop culture figure through his reality show The Osbournes. Honored twice by the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame—once with Black Sabbath and once as a solo artist—Ozzy’s influence spanned generations and genres. His final album, Patient Number 9, released in 2022, won a Grammy and reaffirmed his legacy. The orchestral version of “Gods of Rock n Roll”, recorded in early 2025, returned him to the charts one last time.
A World United in Tribute
The news of Ozzy’s passing sparked a wave of heartfelt tributes across the music world. Fellow musicians, fans, and media outlets all celebrated his fearless spirit, showmanship, and pioneering contributions to music. Tributes poured in—from fellow artists, bands influenced by his music, and organizations connected to his life and work. Many highlighted his openness about narrowing mental and physical health struggles, helping destigmatize serious illness and inspiring others to share their experiences.
A Legacy That Lives On
Ozzy Osbourne’s legacy goes beyond records sold or brilliant stage moments—he helped build heavy metal into a global cultural force. His authenticity, vulnerability, and distinctive voice influenced countless artists, inspired devoted fans, and became woven into the fabric of rock history.
In Memoriam
Ozzy is mourned by his wife, Sharon Osbourne, children Kelly, Jack, Aimee, and Jessica, and his extended family, leaving behind a legacy captured in decades of music, television, and bold global impact.
Final Note
Ozzy once shared in a moment of reflection that he hoped to “die a happy man” after saying farewell to fans. On July 5, 2025, he did so—performing a final, emotive concert. Seventeen days later, on July 22, he left this world with dignity, love, and the awareness that he had fulfilled his promise.
