Former Ozzy’s Bassist Comments About Black Sabbath Snub

Black Sabbath recently announced a massive reunion concert featuring all four original members to mark Ozzy Osbourne’s final live performance. While fans are thrilled, longtime Ozzy bassist Bob Daisley won’t be part of the lineup—and he has some thoughts about it.

Bob Daisley on Missing Out on Ozzy’s Final Show

Daisley, who was a key part of Ozzy’s solo success in the 1980s, spoke with Indie Power TV about not being invited to play. He admitted he wasn’t particularly eager to be there, saying:

“To be honest with you, I don’t think I’d wanna be a part of that day. It’ll be awkward, but it could turn out as an embarrassment as well, but we’ll see. We’ll see.”

He also wasn’t surprised when Ozzy didn’t mention him during his 2023 induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

“I didn’t expect [to get a mention]. I knew that was coming, because there’s been some dirty water gone under the bridge between us – there’s been lawsuits and legal issues and that –so I was not surprised when I didn’t get a mention. Many people thought that it was wrong and that I should have got a mention. But I really didn’t expect it, so I wasn’t surprised.”

Despite the past conflicts, Daisley still appreciates what the original lineup accomplished, especially alongside the late Randy Rhoads.

“It was a chemistry and a formula that worked, and it worked very well. I don’t think any one of us could have been replaced with anyone else and have it work like it did. Ozzy’s voice, tone, and melodies were integral to the sound and deliverance of everything that we did. And Randy and me working together musically first, and then me writing the lyrics to Ozzy’s vocal melodies, it all just jelled. And Lee was definitely the last piece of the puzzle that helped the chemistry and the big picture.”

Daisley’s entire interview with Indie Power TV is available to view below.

Daisley’s Legacy with Ozzy

For hardcore metal fans, Daisley’s history with Ozzy is legendary. He co-founded Ozzy’s solo band in 1979 and played bass, co-wrote songs, and contributed to the production of every album from Blizzard of Ozz (1980) to No More Tears (1991). He helped shape some of Ozzy’s biggest hits, including “Crazy Train”, “Mr. Crowley”, “Bark at the Moon”, and “Mama, I’m Coming Home”. Despite his contributions, Daisley was fired from the band in 1981 due to personal and creative differences. Over the years, he returned for various projects but also took legal action against Ozzy multiple times over unpaid royalties and credit disputes. However, none of the lawsuits have been successful.

Black Sabbath’s Epic Farewell Show

As Loudwire reported, Ozzy’s last-ever performance will take place on July 5 at Villa Park in Birmingham, England—where it all began. The event, Black to the Beginning – The Final Show, will bring Black Sabbath back together for one last time, alongside an all-star lineup. Metal giants like Metallica, Pantera, Slayer, Gojira, Alice in Chains, Mastodon, and Anthrax will also perform. Special guests include Billy Corgan, K.K. Downing, Frank Bello, David Draiman, Zakk Wylde, and Wolfgang Van Halen.

For Ozzy, this show is deeply personal. “It’s my time to go Back to the Beginning….time for me to give back to the place where I was born. How blessed am I to do it with the help of people whom I love. Birmingham is the true home of metal. Birmingham Forever,” he shared.

With Tom Morello as the musical director, the concert is set to be a historic night for rock and metal fans. Plus, it will support several charities, including the Acorn Children’s Hospice and Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

Excitement is already building, with Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Sharon Osbourne adding to the hype with their own statements. Fans and fellow musicians are just as thrilled. Mastodon posted:

“It’s hard to put into words how excited and honored we are to take part in this. July 5th at Villa Park, Birmingham! @BlackSabbath and @OzzyOsbourne and a killer lineup! Yes, please! This is going to be amazing.”

One fan summed it up best on X (formerly Twitter):

“That Black Sabbath show and all the acts involved (except Pantera, f*** Pantera) is going to be the biggest metal event I think I’ve seen in my life so far.”

For those hoping to be part of this unforgettable night, tickets go on sale at 10 AM GMT on Friday, February 14, via Live Nation’s U.K. website.