Final Farewell to Ozzy Osbourne: A Public Tribute in Birmingham

The city of Birmingham, United Kingdom, is gearing up to bid farewell to one of its most illustrious figures, Ozzy Osbourne. This public tribute will take place on Tuesday, July 30, offering fans and the community an opportunity to celebrate the life and legacy of the legendary Black Sabbath frontman, who passed away on July 22 at the age of 76.

Procession Details

At 1:00 PM (8:00 AM EST/6:00 AM PST), a funeral cortege will commence a slow, dignified procession along Broad Street, a vibrant cultural center in the heart of Birmingham. The route will lead to the Black Sabbath Bridge, home to a commemorative bench that has become a makeshift memorial adorned with flowers, heartfelt notes, and tributes from grieving fans worldwide. In recent days, this site has transformed into a gathering point for thousands celebrating the life of the man who significantly influenced the heavy metal genre and proudly represented Birmingham on the global stage.

Musical Tribute

The procession will be accompanied by a live performance from Bostin’ Brass, a local brass band known for their uplifting music. Their performance is anticipated to encapsulate both the solemnity of the occasion and the vibrant energy that defined Ozzy Osbourne‘s remarkable career.

How to Participate

Fans who wish to witness the funeral procession can visit the Black Sabbath Bench website to register with their email address for access. The event is free to attend, ensuring that everyone can come together to honor Ozzy.

Official Statements

“Ozzy was more than a music legend — he was a son of Birmingham,” remarked Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Zafar Iqbal MBE, JP. “It was imperative for the city to support a fitting tribute ahead of a private family funeral, especially after his recent Freedom of the City award and his memorable appearance at the Back to the Beginning concert at Villa Park.”

Cultural Significance

On June 28, 2025, Ozzy Osbourne and his fellow Black Sabbath members were awarded the Freedom of the City, one of Birmingham’s highest honors, acknowledging their profound impact on the city’s cultural landscape. This public farewell serves as a continuation of that recognition, generously supported by the Osbourne family, who wish to share this moment with fans while maintaining the privacy of family ceremonies.

Logistical Information

Public Information and Safety Measures

• Cortege Start Time: Approx. 1:00 PM, procession down Broad Street to Black Sabbath Bridge
• Road Closures: Broad Street will be closed to traffic starting at 7:00 AM
• Public Transport: Buses and trams will be diverted, with local access restrictions in place
• Safety Guidance: Attendees are encouraged to utilize public transport, arrive early, and adhere to safety protocols
• Live Stream: A continuous live stream of the Black Sabbath bench will be available online for those unable to attend in person

A Heartfelt Goodbye

“We are proud to host this event in the city where it all began,” Mayor Iqbal added. “We are grateful to the Osbourne family for enabling this fitting tribute and allowing the city to give him the farewell he deserves.”

This final public tribute to Ozzy Osbourne signifies not just the end of an era for heavy metal enthusiasts around the globe, but also celebrates the enduring bond between a cultural icon and his hometown. Birmingham will bid farewell not only to a music legend but to a true son of the city, with a sense of pride, gratitude, and heavy hearts.

Conclusion

The public tribute for Ozzy Osbourne stands as a testament to the deep connection between the artist and his hometown, as well as the lasting impact he has made in the world of music. As fans gather to mourn and celebrate his legacy, Birmingham continues to honor the man who brought heavy metal to the forefront of cultural significance.

FAQs

What time does the procession start?

The funeral cortege is scheduled to start at approximately 1:00 PM local time.

Where will the procession take place?

The procession will take place along Broad Street, culminating at the Black Sabbath Bridge.

Will there be a live stream of the event?

Yes, a live stream of the Black Sabbath bench will be available for those unable to attend in person.

How can I participate in the procession?

Fans can register on the Black Sabbath Bench website to receive information about the event.

Are there any transport restrictions on the day of the event?

Yes, Broad Street will be closed to through traffic from 7:00 AM, and public transport will be diverted.