Tony Iommi Reflects on Ozzy Osbourne’s Passing After Final Show

Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi has spoken publicly for the first time since the passing of fellow band member Ozzy Osbourne. In an emotional interview with UK broadcaster ITV, Iommi reflected on the shock of Osbourne’s death and the significance of their recent performance, dubbed “Back To The Beginning,” which marked the final appearance of the iconic rock band earlier this month.

Iommi described the moment he learned of Osbourne’s death as surreal. “I mean, when I heard yesterday, it couldn’t sink in,” he said. “I thought, ‘It can’t be.’ I only had a text from him the day before.” The guitarist highlighted the unexpected nature of the news, stating, “It really didn’t sink in. And in the night, I started thinking about it: ‘God, am I dreaming all this?’”

During the interview, Iommi expressed his belief that Osbourne had been holding on to participate in the final show. “I think he really just held out to do that show,” he said. “Me and Geezer Butler were talking about it last night. We think he held out to do it, and just after that, he’s done it and said goodbye to the fans.” He added, “I think he must have had something in his head that said, ‘Well, this is gonna be it, the last thing I’m ever gonna do.’”

As the band prepared for the performance, Iommi noted Osbourne’s declining health. “When I had the text off him the day before yesterday saying he’s tired and he’s really got no energy, I thought, ‘Oh, dear.’ It’s a lot for him to do that under the problems he’s got,” Iommi explained. The guitarist shared that during rehearsals, they limited Osbourne’s presence due to his struggles, allowing him to conserve energy.

The performance was a significant moment for both the band and their fans. Iommi remarked, “The gig was for him, really, and for us, to say goodbye, ’cause also Sabbath saying goodbye. It was the end of the band, and we’ll never do that again.” He also emphasized the importance of having drummer Bill Ward join them for the show, noting it had been twenty years since the original lineup played together.

Reflecting on Osbourne’s demeanor during the final show, Iommi noted, “I think he was moved and frustrated as well, ’cause he wanted to stand up. You could see he was trying to get up. But yeah, it meant everything to him.” The performance served as a heartfelt farewell, allowing Osbourne to connect with fans one last time.

In the wake of Osbourne’s death, tributes have poured in from around the world. Musicians, media organizations, politicians, and fans have all expressed their condolences, highlighting the profound impact Osbourne had on the music industry and beyond.

As the music community mourns the loss of a legend, Iommi’s reflections provide a poignant reminder of the bond shared among the band members and the lasting legacy left by Ozzy Osbourne.