Ozzy Osbourne Sends Cease and Desist To Kanye For Sampling “Iron Man”

via Billboard / Youtube
Ozzy Osbourne and his wife Sharon recently took action against Kanye West for using a part of Black Sabbath’s song “Iron Man” without permission. They sent West a formal letter to stop using the sample in his new album, Vultures. The dispute arose when West reportedly included a segment of a 1983 live performance of “Iron Man” during a promotional event for his album in Chicago.
Ozzy, who contributed to the creation of “Iron Man” with his former bandmates, expressed his frustration on social media, accusing West of disregarding their refusal to allow the sample’s use. He strongly condemned West’s actions, citing West’s controversial past behavior and labeling him as an antisemite. Sharon Osbourne confirmed issuing a cease and desist letter, denouncing West’s disrespect and hatred.
West faced criticism for antisemitic remarks in the past, resulting in severe consequences such as losing legal representation, partnerships with talent agencies and record labels, and contracts with major fashion brands. Despite Ozzy’s usual leniency with sample requests, they made an exception due to the nature of West’s actions.
Following the dispute, West removed the “Iron Man” sample from his track “Carnival” and replaced it with a sample from his song “Hell of a Life,” which acknowledges the Black Sabbath’s influence. The incident adds to the ongoing controversy surrounding West’s behavior.
Meanwhile, Sharon Osbourne also shared plans for Ozzy’s upcoming farewell concert in Birmingham’s Villa Park, signaling a significant event for fans to bid farewell to the legendary musician.