Music Stars Pay Tribute To Ozzy Osbourne Who Died Aged 76

The world of music has paid tribute to the late Black Sabbath singer Ozzy Osbourne, who died aged 76.

Osbourne, best known for being the frontman of rock band Black Sabbath, died just weeks after playing at their 'Back To The Beginning' farewell show in Villa Park, Birmingham, which concluded with Osbourne telling the audience: “Your support has enabled us to live an amazing lifestyle, thank you from the bottom of our hearts”.

'Back To The Beginning' marked the first time that Osbourne had performed alongside his Black Sabbath bandmembers, Geezer Butler, Tony Iommi, and Bill Ward since 2005. The show also featured Guns N’ Roses, KoRn, Tool, Slayer, Pantera, Metallica, Alice In Chains, Gojira, Anthrax, and Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler.

Osbourne himself had not played a full gig since 2018, having undergone several operations amid numerous health issues, including being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.

"surrounded by love"

In a statement shared by Osbourne's family, they said that the musician died "surrounded by love". 

Paying tribute, former bandmate Tony Iommi wrote on Instagram: “I just can’t believe it! My dear dear friend Ozzy has passed away only weeks after our show at Villa Park". 

“It’s just such heartbreaking news that I can’t really find the words, there won’t ever be another like him. Geezer, Bill and myself have lost our brother". 

Rolling Stones' Ronnie Woods, who also appeared at 'Back To The Beginning', wrote: “I am so very sad to hear of the death of Ozzy Osbourne. What a lovely goodbye concert he had at Back To The Beginning in Birmingham". 

“So sad to hear the news of @ozzyosbourne passing away. He was a dear friend and a huge trailblazer who secured his place in the pantheon of rock gods – a true legend. He was also one of the funniest people I’ve ever met. I will miss him dearly. To Sharon and the family, I send my condolences and love", Elton John wrote.

Other stars who paid tribute also include Led Zeppelin's Robert Plant, who tweeted: "Farewell Ozzy … what a journey … sail on up there .. finally at peace .. you truly changed the planet of rock!".