Rock has lost one of its most iconic figureheads, The Prince of Darkness, Ozzy Osbourne. It’s a difficult moment for many. Read on as we commemorate his life and legacy.
Osbourne passed at the age of 76 on July 22. The news was delivered in a statement shared by his family,
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.
The statement was signed by Osbourne’s wife of over 40 years, Sharon, their three children, daughters Kelly, 40, and Aimee, 41, and son Jack, 39.
He rose to fame through his talent and radical stage personality. Even after his split from Black Sabbath, he carved a name for himself through his solo work. Some of his most iconic moments were him throwing raw meat on concert goers, particularly during his Diary of a Madman tour. One of his most well-known acts was when he bit the head off of a bat. It was one of the biggest moments in music and performance history, with some attributing it to the moment when Osbourne became a symbol and household name in rock. He received respect from the rock world in droves that has lasted from the 70s to this day.
Osbourne’s passing comes weeks after he performed with Black Sabbath for their “Back to the Beginning” show in Birmingham, England, on July 5. It was the first time in over 20 years that the original band members performed on stage together. However, it also acted as a farewell as they signed off the incredible legacy they’ve carved in the rock genre. The concert raised $190 million, cementing it as the most money ever raised in a charity concert. Proceeds would be distributed to Acorns Children’s Hospice, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Cure Parkinson’s.
Mick Jones also gave a statement on his passing. Jones is a friend and collaborator of Osbourne, as well as a founding member of FOREIGNER.
This is what Jones said,
I am saddened to hear about Ozzy, we’d been through it all together since way back—good times, writing songs, having a laugh until dawn. He always had a wicked sense of humor and a kind heart. They live and sing amongst us and leave as we met them…a star. My deepest heartfelt condolences to Sharon and the family, who were his rock. It meant a lot, that night we both got into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame together—hard to believe, really. Just glad we got to share that.
~ Mick Jones
It is hard to properly describe the grief that comes with losing rock’s Prince of Darkness. However, that does not mean that he is completely gone from the world. To this day, his influence can be found in many present-day songs and bands, as well as those from his era. However, his talent and particular style aren’t something that can be replaced.
Stay tuned for more news as this story develops.
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