Elton John pays tribute to “true legend” Ozzy Osbourne
Following the passing of metal icon Ozzy Osbourne, aged 76, Elton John has paid tribute to his personal friend and fellow musician.
The tragic news was confirmed in a statement on July 22nd, as Osbourne’s family wrote on social media, “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.”
Elton began his own post, “So sad to hear the news of Ozzy Osbourne passing away. He was a dear friend and a huge trailblazer who secured his place in the pantheon of rock gods – a true legend.”
The ‘Tiny Dancer’ singer continued, “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.”
In 2020, Osbourne and John collaborated on a song, ‘Ordinary Man’, which contains the emotional lyrics, “Don’t forget me as the colours fade, When the lights go down, It’s just an empty stage.” On the track, Ozzy sings the first verse backed by John on piano before the ‘Rocketman’ comes in on vocals during the second verse.
John isn’t the only one to share heartfelt words on his passing. The music world has united in grief for the heavy metal icon who provided as many hilarious moments as incredible hits. Alice Cooper, Rod Stewart, Metallica, Foo Fighters, and Yungblud are just a handful of the names that have honoured Osbourne. His former bandmates in Black Sabbath all wrote heartbreaking messages online, too.
Osbourne’s death occurred only weeks after Black Sabbath reunited at Villa Park for one final show, which marked the first time their original line-up of Ozzy, Bill Ward, Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler had played together in over two decades. The show raised almost $200 million for several charities.
No cause of death has been announced.
Never Miss A Beat
The Far Out Music Newsletter
All the latest music news from the independent voice of culture.
Straight to your inbox.