Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Nuno Bettencourt, and Yungblud honor Ozzy Osbourne at the VMAs
The MTV Video Music Awards showcased a heartfelt tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne with a performance by rock legends Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Nuno Bettencourt, and Yungblud. This supergroup took the stage at UBS Arena in Long Island, New York, the very venue where Aerosmith had to cut short their Peace Out World Tour due to unforeseen circumstances. Yungblud and Nuno Bettencourt commenced their tribute with Ozzy’s classic “Crazy Train,” followed by a rendition of “Changes,” a song Yungblud had previously captivated audiences with in July at the Back to the Beginning tribute show for Black Sabbath and Ozzy’s final performance. Adding to the powerful performance was Black Sabbath and Ozzy’s keyboardist, Adam Wakeman.
In a comeback reminiscent of his glory days, Steven Tyler’s return to the stage for the Back to the Beginning show earlier in the summer reignited fans’ excitement. Aerosmith had set out on their Peace Out Tour in May of 2023, a farewell tour spanning 40 shows across North America. Unfortunately, just three performances into the tour, Tyler suffered a fractured larynx during a show at UBS Arena in September 2023, leading to a postponement of the remaining shows. After multiple rescheduling attempts, Aerosmith ultimately canceled their farewell tour in August 2024, officially ending their live performances.
Meanwhile, Joe Perry and Brad Whitford of Aerosmith found solace in reuniting this summer under the moniker of the Joe Perry Project, which also included notable musicians like Chris Robinson, Robert DeLeo, and Eric Kretz. As the curtains closed on this chapter for Aerosmith, Yungblud continued to captivate audiences with a U.S. tour in support of his latest album, IDOLS, released in June. This double album marked a significant milestone for the alt-rock artist, whose previous albums had garnered extensive global acclaim with billions of streams.
Exploring themes of idolization and self-discovery, Yungblud’s IDOLS delves into the concept of seeking validation outside oneself and the journey towards self-acceptance. As he explains, “We turn to others for an identity before turning to ourselves… As we grow up, we lose our belief in magic and mystery.” This introspective exploration of identity and societal norms reflects Yungblud’s evolution as an artist.
The music industry mourned the loss of Ozzy Osbourne, a legendary figure in rock history, just 17 days after his final performance. His passing marked the end of an era, leaving a legacy that will endure through the generations. Surrounded by loved ones, Ozzy passed away at his home in Buckinghamshire at the age of 76. His family confirmed the news, expressing their deep sadness and love for the iconic musician. Despite the heartbreak of his departure, Ozzy’s impact on music and his devoted fan base remain ever-present in the annals of rock history.