BIRMINGHAM, England — Ozzy Osbourne, the iconic frontman of Black Sabbath, was honored in his hometown of Birmingham on Wednesday in a heartfelt farewell following his passing at the age of 76. A sizable crowd of Black Sabbath fans gathered to express their admiration and pay their respects as Osbourne’s hearse made its way through the city.
The procession moved down Broad Street, a bustling section of Birmingham, and included a stop at the Black Sabbath bench, inaugurated in 2019 on the canal bridge. As the hearse passed, fans enthusiastically shouted, “Ozzy, Ozzy, Ozzy, oi, oi, oi.” Following the hearse were six vehicles carrying Osbourne’s family, who were escorted by police motorcycles.
Sharon Osbourne, visibly emotional, along with other family members paused to honor the many tributes left by fans. Long-time admirer Antony Hunt expressed the day’s significance, noting that attendees spanned multiple generations, united in their love for the music.
Katie Brazier, head of events at Birmingham City Council, emphasized Osbourne’s deep connections to the city, stating he embodied Birmingham’s spirit. His Brummie accent was a point of pride, showcasing his enduring ties to his roots.
Osbourne’s legacy as a pioneering figure in heavy metal, which originated in Birmingham with Black Sabbath’s formation in 1968, continues to resonate. The band is celebrated for defining the heavy metal genre, with hit albums like “Master of Reality” and “Vol. 4” garnering them critical acclaim and commercial success. They sold over 75 million records worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on music history.
The last time Black Sabbath performed in Birmingham was on July 5, where 42,000 fans watched them, with Osbourne appearing on stage looking regal on a black throne despite his recent health battles, including a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease in 2019.
Osbourne’s appeal extended beyond music, as he gained a new fanbase during the early 2000s reality show “The Osbournes,” which featured his family life with Sharon and their children.
This poignant farewell highlighted not only his impact on the music scene but also the profound connection between Osbourne and the city of Birmingham, which has embraced its heavy metal heritage. The emotional tribute serves as a testament to his lasting influence, making it clear that Osbourne will always be a beloved figure in the world of music and within his community.