Osbourne’s influence was crucial in establishing the heavy metal genre during the peak of Black Sabbath’s popularity in the 1970s.
Ozzy Osbourne, renowned lead vocalist of the iconic heavy metal band Black Sabbath, has tragically passed away at the age of 76, as confirmed by his family.
The legendary performer, who battled Parkinson’s disease since 2019, died on a Tuesday, just 16 days following a memorable farewell concert in his native Birmingham, England.
In an emotional statement, his family expressed, “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Ozzy Osbourne this morning. He was surrounded by family and enveloped in love. We kindly request privacy during this challenging time.”
Osbourne played a pivotal role in shaping heavy metal, rising to prominence in the 1970s alongside Black Sabbath, which achieved significant commercial success.
Often referred to as the “Prince of Darkness,” he became infamous for his wild antics, including an infamous on-stage incident with a bat.
Born John Michael Osbourne on December 3, 1948, in Birmingham, he left school at 15 to take on various jobs, including working in factories, before forming bands with his childhood friend, Geezer Butler.
He later transitioned to mainstream fame by appearing as a quirky family man in the reality show “The Osbournes.”
Osbourne’s career culminated in an emotional performance as Black Sabbath played their greatest hits to a roaring crowd of 42,000 fans at Villa Park, the home ground of Aston Villa Football Club.
“This is the final song ever. Your unwavering support has allowed us to enjoy an extraordinary life… Thank you from the depths of our hearts,” he conveyed to the audience before concluding with their legendary track, “Paranoid.”
Dave Navarro of Jane’s Addiction once noted, “Black Sabbath represents the Beatles of heavy metal. Anyone serious about metal acknowledges that it all traces back to Sabbath, linking today’s metal to bands from the ’80s like Iron Maiden.”
Ozzy leaves behind his wife, Sharon, and their three children—Kelly, Aimee, and Jack.
