Ozzy Osbourne has passed away
The "Prince of Darkness" Ozzy Osbourne passed away at the age of 76, just weeks after reuniting with Black Sabbath for their historic farewell concert “Back To The Beginning” in Birmingham on July 5th.
In a statement, Ozzy's family said: “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time.”
Black Sabbath's official Facebook page was updated, simply stating: "Ozzy Forever."
While appearing from a throne on stage at Villa Park on July 5th, the legendary Osbourne told fans: "You have no idea how I feel – thank you from the bottom of my heart". It was a concert that brought together performances from some of his favorite bands for the 76-year-old's "last swan song."
Osbourne pioneered heavy metal with Black Sabbath before achieving massive success as a solo artist. He was known for hits such as "Iron Man", "Paranoid", "War Pigs", "Crazy Train" and “Changes”, both with the band and as a solo artist.
And he was also known for his famous anecdotal stories of "hooliganism" during his heyday as a rock star – most notoriously, the story of how he bit the head off a bat while on stage.
He suffered from Parkinson's disease and had been battling other health issues in recent years, including complications from injuries sustained in a fall in 2019.
Throughout his career, Osbourne was inducted into the UK Music Hall of Fame and the US Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame – twice in both, with Black Sabbath and as a solo artist.
He also has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame – as well as on Broad Street in Birmingham – an Ivor Novello, and five Grammy awards from 12 nominations. Additionally, he received other honors over the years, such as the NME Godlike Genius award and the Classic Rock Living Legend award.
We are all in absolute shock! Black Sabbath was the introduction to a new world of heavy music, what would become heavy metal.
Rest in peace, Ozzy, and thank you for everything!!!
