The Unforgettable Encounter: Mike Bordin Meets Ozzy Osbourne

Heavy metal legend Ozzy Osbourne found himself in a challenging position at the beginning of the 1990s, a time when he was navigating various personal and professional struggles. It was during this tumultuous period that Faith No More’s drummer, Mike Bordin, had a chance encounter with the Prince of Darkness, one that would leave a lasting impact on both musicians.

The Context of the Meeting

In the latest issue of Metal Hammer, Bordin recounts the details of his first meeting with Ozzy in 1990. Faith No More had just made waves with their groundbreaking album, *The Real Thing*, released in 1989, which included the hit single “Epic.” The band’s rise to fame was recognized when RIP Magazine named them “Band of the Year,” leading to an invitation to a prestigious awards ceremony at the Hollywood Palladium on November 9, 1990, coinciding with the magazine’s fourth anniversary.

During their performance, which consisted of 16 songs, the band had a standout moment when they played Black Sabbath’s classic “War Pigs” alongside none other than Ozzy Osbourne and Metallica’s frontman, James Hetfield. Bordin expressed his astonishment, saying, “We couldn’t believe it! We got up and played with [James] Hetfield and Ozzy and it was incredible.”

Meeting Ozzy: A Moment of Connection

After the award show, Faith No More attended a Hollywood party filled with iconic figures from the rock and metal scene. Bordin, seeking a moment of respite, was relaxing in a corner when Ozzy approached him. The conversation took a surprising turn when Ozzy asked, “Why did you guys do ‘War Pigs’ on the album? Are you taking the piss?” This question left Bordin momentarily speechless, as he never expected such a candid inquiry from the creator of the song.

A Personal Revelation

In that moment, Bordin opened up to Ozzy, revealing the profound impact the music of Black Sabbath had on his life. He shared a deeply personal story, mentioning the tragic loss of his mother and the struggles he faced growing up without a stable family. “Things changed for me when I heard Sabbath,” he explained. “I found this music that wasn’t singing about stuff that was pleasant – it’s powerful, dark and the message is you’re not alone. So I told him, ‘You saved my life.’” The sincerity of Bordin’s words resonated with Ozzy, who appeared visibly moved by the drummer’s emotional confession.

A Lasting Relationship

Years later, Bordin and Ozzy would share a stage in South America, and in 1996, Bordin officially joined Ozzy’s band. He toured with the metal icon for nearly a decade, contributing to albums such as *Down To Earth* (2001) and *Black Rain* (2007), as well as live recordings like *Live at Budokan* (2002) and re-recordings of classics like *Blizzard of Ozz* and *Diary of a Madman*.

Upcoming Events and News in the Metal World

In a nod to nostalgia, the original lineup of Black Sabbath—Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward—will reunite for a special concert on July 5 in Birmingham, England. This highly anticipated event will feature supporting acts from notable artists, including Metallica, Pantera, and Tool. Although tickets sold out quickly, fans can still catch a livestream of the concert.

Recently, Ozzy expressed a desire to collaborate with one of his musical idols, Paul McCartney, saying he would love the opportunity to do a duet with the Beatles legend, despite his general reluctance towards collaborations.

Conclusion

The encounter between Mike Bordin and Ozzy Osbourne serves as a reminder of the power of music to connect and heal. Bordin’s heartfelt confession not only touched Ozzy but also highlighted the lasting influence of heavy metal. As fans eagerly anticipate the reunion of Black Sabbath and the future of Ozzy Osbourne, it’s clear that the legacy of these artists continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.

FAQs

What was the significance of Faith No More’s performance of “War Pigs”?

Faith No More’s performance of “War Pigs” at the awards ceremony was significant as it showcased their respect for Black Sabbath and allowed them to connect with Ozzy Osbourne, who originally performed the song.

What impact did Black Sabbath’s music have on Mike Bordin?

Mike Bordin shared that Black Sabbath’s music provided him solace during difficult times in his life, emphasizing its powerful and dark themes that made him feel less alone.

What is the upcoming concert featuring Black Sabbath?

The original lineup of Black Sabbath will reunite for a concert on July 5 in Birmingham, England, featuring performances from other notable metal bands.

Has Ozzy Osbourne expressed interest in collaborations?

Yes, Ozzy Osbourne has expressed a desire to collaborate with Paul McCartney, highlighting his appreciation for the Beatles legend.