Ozzy Returns: Christian Rock Honors Heavy Metal Legend

eration, the musicians who started bands that would later become August Burns Red or Thrice or Lifehouse or Paramore first learned how to play by cranking “Crazy Train” in their parents’ basements. And those bands are still influencing the next generation of Christian music. Ozzy’s influence has reverberated down the years and across genres, creating a space where big guitars are synonymous with faith-filled lyrics. He may not have written the playbook, but he certainly helped populate the team.
Bailey Stegner, lead singer of the band Gold, TrueGold, and a fan of Osbourne’s music notes, “Ozzy was truly an innovator. He pushed the boundaries of what was acceptable and helped pave the way for so many of us who wanted to use our music to share a message of hope and faith.”
Even classic CCM artists like Mary Beth Roe and Dan Wheeler of QVC or Sonny Sandoval of P.O.D. can trace their musical roots back to the rock ‘n’ roll ethos that Osbourne embodied. His ability to meld poignant lyrics with heavy guitar riffs created a platform for musicians across genres to explore the myriad ways in which faith can be expressed through their art.
In light of Osbourne’s passing, the Christian rock community has taken a moment to reflect on the impact of his music. Luminaries like Matt Baird of Spoken and Zach Rand of Wolves at the Gate have paid their respects to the man who helped shape their musical identities. Baird reflects, “Ozzy may have been the Prince of Darkness, but his music brought light into my life. It’s a reminder that God can use all things for good, even the songs that seem to dwell in the shadows.”
As the world mourns the loss of a legend, it’s essential to recognize the lasting impact that Ozzy Osbourne had on the Christian music scene. His music provided the soundtrack for generations of believers seeking to express their faith through a different lens. While his image may have been shrouded in darkness, his legacy is one of unparalleled influence and innovation. Rest in peace, Ozzy—you may have left the stage, but your music will continue to inspire and resonate with countless fans for generations to come.