Ozzy’s Hometown Gathers for a Powerful Public Tribute

Following the death of legendary rocker Ozzy Osbourne at age 76, fans across the globe have been mourning his loss. Tributes have poured in from fellow musicians, while fans in both his hometown of Birmingham, England, and in Hollywood, California, gathered to leave flowers and pay their respects.

In Birmingham, floral tributes were placed along the Black Sabbath Bridge on Broad Street, near a commemorative image of Osbourne. So many tributes were laid that the photo was eventually obscured. The bridge, renamed in 2019 to honor the iconic band that began nearby, has become a focal point for fans. A webcam view of the area is available via the Black Sabbath Bench website.

The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery has also joined in remembrance, hosting an exhibition titled Ozzy Osbourne: Working Class Hero, which runs through September 28. They’ve added a condolence book and extended hours to accommodate grieving visitors. “We know that many fans will want to pay tribute,” museum officials said.

Across the Atlantic, Osbourne’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6780 Hollywood Blvd. has become another shrine for fans. His 2002 acceptance speech for the star reflected his trademark humor:

“To say that this is an honor is not enough… This is just so overwhelming, with all of you turning out so early in the morning to see my old butt.”

Music World Mourns a Giant

Osbourne’s passing has left a major impact on the music industry. Artists from all corners of rock and metal have expressed their grief and shared personal memories.

At a show in Wales, Alice Cooper paid tribute shortly after hearing the news, saying:

“We all know that time is going to take us rockers, but when the giants fall, it’s really hard to accept… Even though everybody saw it coming with Ozzy, it just took our breath away.”

He praised Osbourne’s humor and influence, adding:

“We’re gonna miss you, man.”

Metallica shared a heartfelt message as well:

“It’s impossible to put into words what Ozzy Osbourne has meant… Hero, icon, pioneer, inspiration, mentor, and most of all, friend. … He left an incredible legacy and will be sorely missed.”

They credited Osbourne and his wife, Sharon, with transforming their careers by believing in them early on.

Motley Crue’s Nikki Sixx offered a touching story from when his daughter sold duct tape wallets in Hidden Hills. Osbourne unexpectedly showed up, laughing and buying them all:

“That was Ozzy. I’ll forever be grateful he gave our little ratty band from Hollywood our first big break. … Thank you for the music, your kindness, and wicked wicked sense of humor. Journey well, our friend.”

A Legacy That Lives On

Osbourne’s influence reached beyond music and into pop culture. In London, the creators behind All on the Board—a well-known London Underground message board—posted a poetic tribute calling him “the world’s favorite rock ’n’ roll rebel” and referencing his famous lyrics:

“You didn’t just ride the crazy train – you also drove it, too.”

At a Mammoth WVH concert in Hartford, Connecticut, the band learned of Osbourne’s passing just before soundcheck and chose to perform a raw, emotional rendition of “Mama, I’m Coming Home” after rehearsing it only twice backstage.

In New York City, Ghost dedicated their Madison Square Garden performance to Osbourne. Frontman Tobias Forge, in character as Papa V Perpetua, told fans:

“For being the Prince of Darkness, he sure gave us a lot of light… we’re going to tap into that tonight and carry it forward through a time of darkness.”