Music icon Ozzy Osbourne, known as the Prince of Darkness, passes away at age 76
Ozzy Osbourne, the rock music icon known as the Prince of Darkness, has passed away at the age of 76. The news of his death was shared in a statement from his family, expressing their deep sadness and asking for privacy during this time. This somber update comes after Osbourne disclosed his Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2020.
Born as John Michael Osbourne in Birmingham, England, in 1948, he gained the moniker “Ozzy” during his early schooling years. Music was an integral part of his life, as it provided an escape for him amidst challenges. His struggles with dyslexia, memories of being bullied, and a suicide attempt as a teenager were hardships he faced. He took inspiration from The Beatles and their song “She Loves You,” which set him on the path towards a music career.
At the age of 15, Osbourne left school and took on various trades before encountering legal troubles that led to a brief stint in prison. Following his release, he co-founded his first band, Rare Breed, with friend Geezer Butler. This collaboration would evolve into Black Sabbath in 1968, a band that would greatly influence heavy metal music with chart-topping tracks like “Paranoid” and “Iron Man.”
Despite their success, Black Sabbath was met with criticism for their music’s themes and Osbourne’s dark persona, which earned him the title of the Prince of Darkness. After his removal from the band in 1979 due to substance abuse issues, Osbourne embarked on a successful solo career under the management of Sharon Arden. His solo albums produced hit songs such as “Crazy Train” and “Mama, I’m Coming Home,” solidifying his status as a rock legend.
Throughout his career, Osbourne sold over 100 million albums both as a solo artist and as part of Black Sabbath. His notable achievements were recognized with induction into the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2005. The seemingly unbreakable bond between Osbourne and his bandmates was disrupted by substance abuse issues that led to his departure from Black Sabbath. Despite feelings of betrayal, Osbourne reflected on his past with regret and understanding.
Ozzy Osbourne’s legacy as a pioneer of heavy metal music and a larger-than-life rock star will forever be etched in music history. His influence, both as part of Black Sabbath and as a solo artist, has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Osbourne’s passing marks the end of an era, leaving fans and music enthusiasts in mourning for the loss of an extraordinary talent.