Don Dokken Pays Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne Following His Passing

Remembering Ozzy

In a poignant interview with Chaz & AJ In The Morning, a popular radio talk show on 99.1 WPLR, Don Dokken, the legendary frontman of DOKKEN, expressed his heartfelt tribute to the iconic Ozzy Osbourne, who passed away on July 22 at the age of 76. Reflecting on the inevitability of life and death, Dokken shared, “It’s inevitable for everybody, man. We’re all gonna have our time here in this world, and we’re gonna go,” adding that Ozzy was only a few years his senior, which made him contemplate his own future.

Final Performance and Legacy

Dokken recalled Ozzy’s last performance during the “Back To The Beginning” event on July 5, which marked his final concert both as a solo artist and with the original lineup of BLACK SABBATH. He remarked, “How amazing was it that just — was it three weeks ago? He had his last concert. It’s amazing… He did his last concert sitting in that throne, and he sang great, he looked great.” The event, which drew over 40,000 fans, featured appearances by notable musicians like METALLICA and Steven Tyler from AEROSMITH, making it a fitting farewell for the rock legend.

Personal Reflections on Ozzy

Dokken shared personal anecdotes about his experiences with Ozzy, revealing a side of him that contrasted with his public persona as the “Prince Of Darkness.” He described Ozzy as more mellow than many perceived, stating, “He was pretty mellow. And the cool thing about Ozzy, he was very well read. He loved to read.” This insight highlights the depth of Ozzy’s character beyond the wild party image often associated with him.

Plans for Tribute Performances

When asked if he would cover any Ozzy songs during DOKKEN’s upcoming tour, Dokken expressed the challenge of doing justice to Ozzy’s unique vocal style. “The problem with singing any SABBATH song is Ozzy’s voice was so unique. How do you copy or even try to pay homage to that?” he pondered, underscoring the difficulty of replicating Ozzy’s iconic sound.

The Circumstances of Ozzy’s Passing

Ozzy’s death was announced by his family, who shared in a statement their profound sorrow, saying, “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love.” While no specific cause of death was provided, it was known that Ozzy had been battling various health issues in recent years, including Parkinson’s disease and injuries from a fall in 2019.

A Lasting Legacy

Ozzy’s final performance came just weeks before his passing, showcasing his enduring spirit and dedication to his fans. He leaves behind a rich legacy, with significant contributions to music, including a Primetime Emmy for his family reality show “The Osbournes,” and multiple Grammy Awards, including one for “I Don’t Want To Change The World.” Moreover, he was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame both as a member of BLACK SABBATH and as a solo artist.

Family and Impact

Ozzy is survived by his wife Sharon and their three children, as well as three children from his first marriage. His influence on the music industry, particularly heavy metal, is immeasurable, and his annual tour, Ozzfest, continues to be a significant event in the rock music calendar.

Conclusion

Don Dokken’s tribute to Ozzy Osbourne highlights the profound impact the legendary rocker had on his peers and the music community as a whole. As fans and fellow musicians mourn his loss, they also celebrate a life rich with unforgettable performances, groundbreaking music, and a legacy that will endure for generations to come.

FAQs

What was Ozzy Osbourne’s last performance?

Ozzy Osbourne’s last performance took place during the “Back To The Beginning” event on July 5, where he performed with the original lineup of BLACK SABBATH.

What health issues did Ozzy Osbourne face before his death?

Ozzy struggled with several health challenges, including Parkinson’s disease and injuries from a fall he suffered in 2019.

How did Don Dokken describe his personal interactions with Ozzy?

Don Dokken described Ozzy as more mellow and well-read than his public persona suggested, revealing a thoughtful side to the rock star.

What is Ozzfest?

Ozzfest is an annual music festival founded by Ozzy Osbourne and his wife Sharon in 1996, showcasing various rock and metal artists.