Mayor outlines “fitting tribute” to Ozzy Osbourne in Birmingham
The Mayor of the West Midlands, Richard Parker, has discussed his plans for a “fitting tribute” to the late Ozzy Osbourne in his native Birmingham.
In addition to the global rock community mourning Osbourne’s death after his family confirmed his passing on July 22nd, his native Birmingham is also a city united by grief in the wake of the local hero’s death.
Over the last 24 hours, Black Sabbath Bridge on Broad Street has become a shrine to the late vocalist, and Birmingham City Council has created a book of condolence, which fans can sign at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. Fans have also covered the Black Sabbath mural on Navigation Street with flowers in memory of Ozzy.
Now, in a new interview with the AP (via Birmingham Live), Parker, who was elected last year, said of Osbourne’s death: “He’s one of us, there is an enormous amount of pride – he was forged by this place and he put this place on the map, and everyone could relate to him. I want other creatives like him in the city to be in a position where they can also reach to the stars and build profiles that will help put this city on the global map.”
Parker also discussed protecting The Crown pub, which is currently empty in Birmingham city centre, despite the venue playing a pivotal role in Black Sabbath’s journey to global dominance. The establishment has been vacant since 2014 but secured Grade II-listed status last year, protecting it from being redeveloped.
“We need to find a way of building on that legacy,” Parker said of the cultural institution. “I’m hoping that the work the city council is doing with other campaigners and with the owners of that property, we can also make The Crown a fitting tribute to the legend and the legacy of Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath.”
Parker then spoke about his pride about Black Sabbath and Osbourne’s recent return to Birmingham for Back to the Beginning at Villa Park earlier this month, as well as the group being awarded freedom of the city at a ceremony, sharing, “I was just struck by how humble he and members of the band were and I just remember how much it meant to them.”
On July 22nd, the Osbourne family shared a statement that confirmed his passing and revealed that he died “surrounded by love”. They didn’t reveal a cause of death and also requested privacy during this difficult time.
Osbourne’s sisters have since stated they are “just thankful he died in England”, and shared their memories of recently seeing him when he returned to Birmingham, as well as revealing the rock icon “still had plans and things he wanted to do”.
Many musical acts, including Coldplay, Alice Cooper, and Lady Gaga, paid unique tributes to Osbourne at their concerts on July 22nd. Meanwhile, Elton John, Ronnie Wood, and his beloved Aston Villa have also honoured the Black Sabbath frontman.
Never Miss A Beat
The Far Out Music Newsletter
All the latest music news from the independent voice of culture.
Straight to your inbox.