With the passing of rock icon Ozzy Osbourne, numerous celebrities and fans have been reminiscing about their connections with him, including his long-time guitarist and friend, Zakk Wylde.
Ozzy Osbourne, the renowned rockstar, died last Tuesday (July 22), prompting a wave of tributes from around the globe that highlight his influential role in the music world.
Zakk Wylde, a close friend and Osbourne’s guitarist for years, shared insights into the last text message he received from the rock legend and reflected on their friendship.
Wylde, aged 58, mentioned they exchanged messages after Black Sabbath’s farewell concert in Birmingham, UK, on July 5.
Although Wylde attended the event, he didn’t have the opportunity to meet Osbourne backstage due to the bustling atmosphere.
He confessed he had expected to meet Osbourne in the days following the concert, despite knowing about his health struggles. Unfortunately, this meeting did not take place.
In an interview with Guitar World, Wylde explained: “Everybody and their mother were in the backstage dressing room and I just wanted to give him a break.
“The last text I got from Oz was saying, ‘Zakky, sorry, it was like a madhouse back there. I didn’t see you.’ He goes, ‘Thanks for everything.’ It was just us talking, saying, ‘I love you, buddy.’ That was it.”
Wylde fondly remembered their long-standing friendship, emphasizing that Osbourne was more than just a musical partner.
He remarked: “Oz was just the best. I have my father, who was a World War II veteran; and then Ozzy, who was almost like an older brother.
“There was almost a 20-year age gap between us. With our relationship, there was the fun drinking – but if I ever needed advice, I could talk to him.”
Wylde also noted that while they shared a lighthearted bond, their musical collaboration was seamless.
He added: “It felt natural with Oz. Very rarely would things turn into a math equation, where you needed a manual to figure out a part. If that starts it’s probably not going to happen.”
Osbourne’s funeral took place in Birmingham on July 30, marking a deeply emotional event.
His wife, Sharon, and daughter, Kelly Osbourne, were seen visibly emotional as they joined music fans on the streets of the city to pay their respects.
A procession was organized with a hearse carrying Ozzy’s body through Birmingham. Atop his casket was a floral arrangement in purple spelling ‘OZZY’.