Ozzy Osbourne was laid to rest on July 31 at his estate in Buckinghamshire, England. It was a private service attended by family and close friends, including music legends like Elton John and members of Black Sabbath. Photos shared by TMZ captured musicians arriving for the ceremony.
A tribute featuring the words “Ozzy Fucking Osbourne” adorned the grounds. Yungblud, a rising star in rock, read a passage at the service. He and Ozzy formed a bond after appearing together in the music video for “The Funeral.”
Elton John reflected on Ozzy, calling him a “dear friend” and a pivotal figure in rock history. Ozzy had long expressed a desire for his funeral to be a celebration rather than a somber occasion. In 2011, he told The Times that he hoped for humor and joy, rather than sadness. He famously quipped about his wish for pranks, like a video of him “asking for a second opinion on death.”
His autobiography, “I Am Ozzy,” reveals more about his thoughts on life and death. He envisioned being buried in a garden, under a crabapple tree, so his family could make wine from the fruit.
Fans had a chance to pay tribute as his funeral procession went through Birmingham, his hometown. They left flowers and messages for the heavy metal icon, highlighting his profound influence on music and culture.
Ozzy’s health had been frail in recent years, battling Parkinson’s and other ailments. He passed away on July 22, just weeks after a triumphant performance with Black Sabbath. The band, formed in 1968, is celebrated for revolutionizing heavy metal, with over 75 million albums sold globally.
Ozzy’s legacy also includes the Emmy-winning reality show “The Osbournes” and his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He was noted for his Grammy-winning hits, including “I Don’t Want To Change The World.”
His impact reaches beyond music; it’s a cultural phenomenon that shaped many artists. The annual Ozzfest, which began in 1996, highlighted his commitment to emerging talent in rock.
Ozzy leaves behind his wife, Sharon, and six children. His influence on rock and the emotions he stirred in fans are a testament to his extraordinary life.
Check out outlets like Rolling Stone for ongoing updates about Ozzy’s legacy and influence in the music world.