Billy Idol is amongmany people in the music industry are mourningWednesday following the legendary OzzyOsbourne passed away at the age of 76.In Idol’s case, he gives credit to Osbourne for “showing us the way” to succeed as punk-rockers. Just last October, Idol participated in celebrating Ozzy’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist by performing “No More Tears” at the event, accompanied by his bandmate Steve Stevens, former Ozzy collaborators Zakk Wylde and Robert Trujillo, and Chad Smith from the Red Hot Chili Peppers. During interviews around that time, Ozzy commended Idol and stated that he, too, deserves to be inducted into the Cleveland shrine, and it was no coincidence that Billy found hisname among the nominees this year, even if he wasn’t selected this time. Here, Idol recalls Osbourne for his lasting impact on music and the trail he forged for future generations.
I suppose he made an effort to go out of his way. I’m still somewhat shocked because just a little over two weeks ago, he was on the Back to the Beginning stage in Birmingham. I didn’t anticipate this happening, really. But I guess that’s just how it always turns out.
I’ve been familiar with him for many years. I occasionally participated in promotional activities with him, things like that. Later, I was involved in his solo induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, which was invited by Sharon. It was an amazing evening and a wonderful experience. It truly helped me understand what the Hall of Fame stands for. While there are often negative comments about it, I witnessed the positive side that night. Being part of Ozzy’s induction allowed me to see that.
I’m certain his support played a role in my nomination this year. Someone like him making such a statement was truly amazing. He’s similar to David Bowie. Ozzy has always been an inspiration for those of us who appreciate music, guiding us on how to endure through everything. It’s truly incredible. It’s hard to believe both are gone now. Ozzy was so full of life, with so much character… living in the moment and savoring it. His music was like that too.
My bandmate Billy Morrison is one of Ozzy’s closest friends. I have known Ozzy and Sharon for a long time, participating in various activities with them over the years. Being British and living in Los Angeles also created a bond. He launched his solo career around the same time I did. The fact that he managed to stay in the spotlight, transitioning from Black Sabbath to a highly successful solo career, is impressive. Later, he returned to his roots by working on an album with Black Sabbath a few years back. Just two weeks ago, he was on that stage, having an amazing time. It was clear he was truly enjoying himself.
Ozzy had a deep affection for various things. He cherished the Beatles, rock ‘n’ roll music, and the people who were close to him. It provided him with a sense of purpose. At one time, he felt he had no future. This was also true for us in the punk-rock scene. Rock ‘n’ roll offered all of us a path forward, allowing us to move beyond what others told us we couldn’t achieve. That was Ozzy. While many talk about his wild and unpredictable side, he had a lot of love for the things in his life… his music and the people around him. Witnessing him at the Hall of Fame induction was incredible, as it highlighted all the relationships he built over the years, showing how much everyone adored him, and how he returned that love.
He created musical pathways for individuals like me during a period when we were young and seeking motivation. Black Sabbath and Ozzy played a significant role in paving the way for punk-rock. In many respects, it was driven by all the influences we encountered as kids, particularly the Sabs and Ozzy.
