Guitarist Zakk Wylde recently shared his thoughts on the passing of legendary musician Ozzy Osbourne. Wylde, who played with Osbourne for decades, spoke about Osbourne's strength, humor, and generous spirit in an interview with the Los Angeles Times. These are his first public comments on the loss of his friend and bandmate.
Key Takeaways
- Zakk Wylde described Ozzy Osbourne as having a "heart of gold."
- Wylde highlighted Osbourne's resilience in facing challenges throughout his career.
- He recalled Osbourne's humor and commitment to live performances.
- Wylde did not believe Osbourne's final show would be his last.
Ozzy Osbourne's Unwavering Fortitude
Wylde first joined Ozzy Osbourne's band in 1987. He reflected on the making of the 2007 album, Black Rain. This album marked a significant point in Osbourne's career, as it was his first recorded while sober. Wylde noted Osbourne's consistent ability to push forward despite difficulties.
Osbourne faced many hardships, including being fired from Black Sabbath and the tragic death of guitarist Randy Rhoads. Yet, he always found a way to continue his musical journey. Wylde admired this trait deeply.
"What always struck me was his fortitude to just keep going forward," Wylde stated in the interview. "I always feel like he was my hero for his toughness as well. Even down to the last show, he willed himself, like, 'I'm going to do this show.' And he did it."
Fact: Black Rain
Black Rain (2007) was Ozzy Osbourne's tenth studio album. It was his first album in six years and notably his first recorded entirely sober. The album reached number 3 on the Billboard 200 chart.
Wylde recalled texting Osbourne after his final performance, telling him, "Ozzy, you never quit, man. You did great." This sentiment underscores Osbourne's determination. Wylde compared him to a boxer who would continue fighting no matter how injured he became.
A Heart of Gold and Endearing Humor
Beyond his resilience, Osbourne was known for his humor and kindness. Wylde described Osbourne as "hilarious" and someone who constantly made fun of himself. This lightheartedness often made working difficult because everyone would be "on the floor crying, laughing."
Wylde also emphasized Osbourne's compassionate nature. He explained that Osbourne "hated seeing people being upset." This characteristic contributed to his reputation for having a "heart of gold."
"He hated seeing people being upset and things like that," Wylde explained. "So, yeah, he had a heart of gold. And all the best qualities you could ask for in somebody — super giving, had a heart of gold and just tough as nails."
Ozzy's Personality
Ozzy Osbourne's public image often highlighted his wild side, but those close to him frequently spoke of his warmth and generosity. This duality contributed to his enduring appeal and connection with fans globally.
Wylde recounted a humorous incident from a tour in Japan. Despite Osbourne's well-known history with partying, Wylde clarified that Osbourne never drank before shows. There was only one exception where they both got "beyond blasted." The next day, Osbourne asked Wylde for a beer on the train to the gig.
Wylde described them sneaking off to the bathroom like "14-year-olds." Osbourne quickly drank the beer and then told Wylde, "All right, Zakk, have a good show." This story illustrates Osbourne's commitment to performing, even amidst his personal struggles. His partying never interfered with his stage presence.
The Drive to Perform: "Where He Wanted to Be"
Osbourne's love for performing was evident in his consistent happiness on stage. Wylde observed that Osbourne was "always smiling" and "always happy" in concert photos. Being on stage was "where he wanted to be."
The 2025 "Back to the Beginning" show, which many now consider Osbourne's final public performance, was a testament to this drive. Despite significant medical issues, Osbourne was determined to perform. Wylde had been in contact with Sharon Osbourne, hoping for a successful show that could lead to more performances, perhaps even a tour with a special hydraulic chair to assist him.
Wylde expressed his uncertainty leading up to the event. "I was like, 'Man, I wonder if we’re going to do this gig' before it even happened because it was so far out, like a year. And then Oz was like, 'Oh, man, my neck is still killing me. I can’t walk.'" Despite these challenges, Osbourne remained resolute.
Ozzy's Health Struggles
Ozzy Osbourne faced numerous health challenges in recent years, including a fall in 2019 that aggravated a previous neck injury from a quad bike accident. These issues significantly impacted his mobility and ability to tour extensively.
Wylde did not believe the "Back to the Beginning" show would be Osbourne's final act. He viewed any setbacks as "speed bumps" that they would overcome. He knew Osbourne still wanted to make records and perform. Wylde imagined a future with selective shows, like Ozzfest-type events, rather than extensive tours.
Belief in Invincibility and a Lasting Legacy
Wylde admitted that Osbourne felt almost invincible to him. He never thought he would be playing iconic songs like "Mama, I'm Coming Home" or "Crazy Train" with him for the last time. "You never think it’s your last Super Bowl; you’re playing and you’re playing to win," Wylde stated.
He consistently encouraged Osbourne to continue therapy and treatment, stressing that quitting was not an option. "What’s the option? Then you just quit in the corner, and you whine about it. Or you could do something about it, with therapy and hitting the weights and doing everything you got to do," Wylde would tell him.
Ozzy's Memoir: Last Rites
Osbourne's recent memoir, Last Rites, provides further insight into his perspective on his final performance. He described the adulation from the crowd at "Back to the Beginning" as "the best drug he ever took," surpassing any substance he had tried in his life. He felt an overwhelming sense of love from his fans.
In his memoir, Osbourne reflected on the emotional impact of the show, particularly during "Mama, I'm Coming Home." He noted the crowd's support when he struggled, singing the words back to him. This connection with his audience was deeply meaningful.
Sharon Osbourne had a backup plan in case Ozzy could not sing at the final show. She told him to simply talk to the crowd and thank them, emphasizing that his presence as "Ozzy" was what mattered most. This highlights the deep understanding and support within the Osbourne family.
Ultimately, Wylde hopes people remember Osbourne for his "heart of gold." He emphasized that Osbourne possessed the best qualities one could desire in a person: generosity, toughness, and an unwavering spirit. These traits, combined with his musical talent, cemented Osbourne's legacy as a true icon.
Zakk Wylde's Previous Tributes
On the day of Ozzy Osbourne's passing, July 22, 2025, Zakk Wylde posted a tribute on social media. He shared a video of them performing together in 2010. His message conveyed deep gratitude and affection:
"THANK YOU FOR BLESSING THE WORLD w/YOUR KINDNESS & GREATNESS OZ - YOU BROUGHT LIGHT INTO SO MANY LIVES & MADE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE - YOU LIVED w/THE HEART OF A LION - I THANK THE GOOD LORD EVERY DAY FOR BLESSING MY LIFE w/YOU IN IT -I LOVE YOU OZBEYOND FOREVERZAKKXOXO"
A week later, Wylde revealed Osbourne's final text message to him, sent after the "Back to the Beginning" show. Osbourne apologized for the chaotic backstage environment, saying he didn't get to see Wylde. The message concluded with mutual expressions of love, a simple yet profound farewell.