- Ozzy Osbourne inducted into Rock Hall
- Thanks fans, family, and Randy Rhoads
- All-star band performs iconic hits
Rock legend Ozzy Osbourne received a standing ovation at the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse arena on Saturday as he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist.
“I’d like to thank whoever voted me into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for my solo work. Thank you from the bottom of my heart,” Osbourne exclaimed, his voice ringing out above the cheers.
The 75-year-old Prince of Darkness, from Birmingham, was presented with the award by actor Jack Black, who recounted his first encounter with Osbourne’s solo hit album “Blizzard of Oz” (1980). “Heaven had opened up… I didn’t realize I was entering a whole new world of heavy metal,” Black said.
Osbourne expressed gratitude to his loyal fans, saying, “My fans have been so loyal to me over the years. I cannot thank them enough.” He also acknowledged the talented musicians he has collaborated with, particularly the late guitarist Randy Rhoads, who helped transform his solo career.
“But I’ve got to say one thing for a guy by the name of Randy Rhoads. If I hadn’t met Randy Rhoads, I don’t think I’d be sitting here now,” Osbourne said.
The rock icon saved his biggest thank you for his family, including his wife Sharon, daughter Kelly, and son Sidney, who were in attendance. “More than that, my wife Sharon saved my life. And my grandbabies and my babies. I love them all.”
Osbourne was joined on stage by an all-star band, featuring Zakk Wylde, Robert Trujillo, Chad Smith, and Adam Wakeman, who performed his iconic hits. Country superstar Jelly Roll delivered an outstanding rendition of “Mama, I’m Coming Home,” while Maynard James Keenan sang “Crazy Train” and Billy Idol belted out “No More Tears.”
This induction marks Osbourne’s second entry into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, having previously been inducted in 2006 as a member of Black Sabbath. With over 100 million records sold, both as a solo artist and with the band, Osbourne’s legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians.
Despite battling health issues, including Parkinson’s disease, Osbourne remains a beloved figure in the music industry. His connection to his West Midlands roots remains strong, with various city honors bestowed upon him, including a spot on Birmingham’s Hollywood-style Walk of Fame and a mechanical bull named “Ozzy” at Birmingham New Street railway station.
Artists become eligible for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 25 years after the release of their first recording. Osbourne’s remarkable journey, spanning 55 years, was celebrated during the five-hour show, with tributes from fellow musicians, including Paul McCartney.
