Metallica Pays Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne: A True Icon and Mentor

## Metallica Pays Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne

Metallica has honored Ozzy Osbourne, acknowledging his significant role in their rise to fame. The beloved artist passed away on Tuesday at the age of 76.

### A Deep Connection

In a heartfelt statement shared on Instagram, Metallica expressed, “It’s impossible to put into words what Ozzy Osbourne has meant to us. Hero, icon, pioneer, inspiration, mentor, and, most of all, friend, are just a few words that come to mind.” The band emphasized how Ozzy and his wife, Sharon, believed in them and profoundly impacted their careers.

Drummer Lars Ulrich elaborated in a 2023 interview with Howard Stern about how Osbourne was known for bringing up-and-coming bands on tour. He recalled how, in 1986, after releasing *Master of Puppets*, Ozzy and Sharon gave Metallica their first big break on stage.

### A Transformative Experience

Reflecting on those early days, Ulrich noted that just five years earlier, he and vocalist James Hetfield were still figuring out their path. Thanks to the Osbournes, they found themselves performing in major arenas across America.

“It was such a transformative time,” said Ulrich. “It was our first exposure to the big leagues, and being around that A-level energy was exhilarating.”

> *“We wanted him to come up and sing with us. That was like our big dream,”* Ulrich admitted, recalling how they would play Black Sabbath songs during soundchecks, hoping for a chance to perform with the rock legend.

### Cherished Moments

The dream materialized during the 2009 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame event, where Metallica and Osbourne performed “Iron Man” and “Paranoid.” Recently, they also took the stage at Osbourne and Black Sabbath’s farewell show in Birmingham, England, covering tracks like “Hole in the Sky” and “Johnny Blade.”

Metallica concluded their tribute with a poignant message: “We are heartbroken and devastated by this loss and send our love and condolences to Sharon and their family, bandmates, and his very large circle of friends.” They acknowledged his lasting legacy and the profound void his passing has created.

### A Legacy Remembered

Black Sabbath, along with countless artists across various genres, paid their respects to Osbourne, honoring the heavy metal icon who collaborated with a diverse range of talents. His influence extended to names like Slash, Elton John, and even contemporary artists like Post Malone.

What are your memories of Ozzy Osbourne’s music, and how has it impacted you?