Rockies honor Ozzy Osbourne on scoreboard
The recent passing of legendary rock icon Ozzy Osbourne was met with mourning by music fans worldwide. Among those paying tribute to Osbourne was the Colorado Rockies baseball team, recognizing his special connection to the franchise.
Osbourne, famously known for being a member of Black Sabbath before launching a successful solo career, released his first solo album, “Blizzard of Ozz,” in 1980. The album featured the hit single “Crazy Train,” which became an iconic rock anthem over the years. Interestingly, this song was a favorite of former Rockies player Larry Walker, who frequently used it as his walk-up music during his time with the team.
In a heartfelt nod to Osbourne on the Coors Field scoreboard, the Rockies highlighted Walker’s 2,136 home at-bats between 1995 and 2004, indicating that “Crazy Train” played over the loudspeakers at least that many times during his appearances. This made Osbourne one of the most played artists in the history of the stadium soundtrack, solidifying his status as an honorary member of the Rockies family.
Osbourne’s musical influence extended far beyond the sports world. Aside from his illustrious career in music, which included induction into both the UK Music Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Osbourne also made a mark with his reality show, “The Osbournes,” in the early 2000s. Despite facing health challenges, such as a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis in 2019, Osbourne continued to perform and entertain audiences until his recent farewell concert.
Larry Walker, a revered figure in baseball history, achieved numerous accolades during his time with the Rockies. From winning the National League MVP award in 1997 to earning multiple Gold Glove and Silver Slugger awards, Walker’s impact on the sport was undeniable. His connection to Osbourne through the iconic “Crazy Train” walk-up song further solidifies the enduring legacy of both the musician and the athlete.
As fans and players alike reflect on the contributions of Ozzy Osbourne to the world of music and entertainment, the tribute by the Colorado Rockies serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact he had on individuals across various industries. The convergence of rock music and baseball in honoring Osbourne underscores the universal power of music to unite fans and evoke cherished memories for generations to come.