The rock world is still reeling from the loss of Ozzy Osbourne, who passed away at the age of 76, surrounded by his loved ones.
His family confirmed the news on July 22, stating he died peacefully with Sharon, his children, and grandchildren by his side.
For decades, Ozzy captivated audiences with his unmistakable voice and legendary performances, but in recent years, he fought a private battle.
Since being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2019, his health declined steadily, impacting his mobility, though his vocals remained strong.
Despite his condition, Ozzy remained determined to do one last thing, something deeply personal that had been on his heart for years.
With the help of his wife Sharon, the vision became reality. A return to Birmingham, his hometown, was carefully planned with purpose.
It wasn’t just a nostalgic trip but the setup for an emotional event that would bring together fans and friends from across generations.
Ozzy headlined the “Back to the Beginning” concert, a massive benefit show featuring Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Slayer, Anthrax and Black Sabbath.
Held at a venue near where Ozzy was born, the concert drew thousands of fans and raised nearly $189 million for charitable causes.
Sitting on a throne due to his physical limitations, Ozzy performed beloved tracks and delivered a heartfelt message to the roaring crowd.
“You’ve no idea how I feel – thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
The moment was described as powerful and deeply moving, a symbol of strength from a man who had given everything to music.
Just days before his passing, Ozzy shared a final Instagram post. It was a quiet photo of the concert poster on a dressing room wall.
No caption. No explanation. Just a symbol of closure and peace from the man who once defined chaos.
In private, Ozzy had been working on a documentary about his return to the UK with his family, but filming stopped due to his declining health.
Still, the concert was a triumph. A final chapter, executed with love and care by Sharon, who quietly carried out his last wish.
She ensured every detail reflected Ozzy’s legacy, from the setlist to the lineup, and most importantly, the location closest to his heart.
“The only place that we could do it would have been Aston, because that’s where Ozzy was born and grew up, which is right where the Villa ground is,” Sharon told Music Business Worldwide.
“I thought of having all the bands he’s ever had relationships with perform and maybe do Sabbath songs and Ozzy songs. It became a celebration of the music. All the generations are going to be there that Sabbath and Ozzy have passed the torch down to.”
Before the show, Sharon had told The Sun, “Ozzy was very happy to be coming back and very emotional about this.”
“Parkinson’s is a progressive disease. It’s not something you can stabilize. It affects different parts of the body, and it’s affected his legs. But his voice is as good as it’s ever been.”
Following his death, the family released a statement:
“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.”
Tributes poured in from all over the world, including one from Aston Villa Football Club, who said:
“Aston Villa Football Club is saddened to learn that world-renowned rockstar and Villan, Ozzy Osbourne has passed away.”
“Growing up in Aston, not far from Villa Park, Ozzy always held a special connection to the club and the community he came from. The thoughts of everyone at Aston Villa are with his wife Sharon, his family, friends, and countless fans at this extremely difficult time.”
The final wish had been granted. A farewell crafted not by fate, but by love.
A performance that became part of rock history, and a final act of devotion from Sharon Osbourne that will never be forgotten.
Featured image Credit: (Ian Gavan/Getty) (Yahoo)
