Just about every rock and metal drummer would jump at the chance to play with Black Sabbath if they could. Surprisingly, one person who was asked but turned down the offer is former Who and Oasis drummer Zak Starkey. He has since expressed “regret” over not joining the godfathers of heavy metal over a decade ago.
What Starkey Said
Following the passing of legendary Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne on July 22, 2025, countless fans, friends, and colleagues paid their respects, including Starkey. On July 23, he shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, revealing that Sharon Osbourne had asked him to fill the drummer’s seat back in 2012.
Starkey posted an image of an email from Sharon Osbourne, which read:
Zak,
Black Sabbath is headlining Download on June 10 and then Lollapalooza in August. The guys need a drummer for their album, which will be recorded in September with Rick Rubin producing. We would probably need you for 2-3 weeks for the album. Also, they need a drummer to play at Lollapalooza which is on August 3 in Chicago. Also, Ozzy wants to have sex with you while he is singing Iron Man.
Big Kiss,
Sharon
Alongside the email, Starkey wrote:
Regrets I’ve had a few – this is one – (not the sex part!) Ozzy will always be one of the greatest, natural, brilliant singers of all time. I send much love and strength to his family at this sad sad time. If you aren’t familiar with the Never Say Die record – get into it – it’s so far out – X
Although Starkey’s post garnered numerous comments, he didn’t elaborate on why he declined the opportunity, despite fans asking him directly. Stereogum noted that Starkey had been dealing with a tendon issue in 2013, which could have influenced his decision.
The album Sharon referred to was Black Sabbath’s final LP, titled *13*, released in 2013. This marked the band’s first studio album since 1995’s *Forbidden*. While drummer Bill Ward was absent from this project, it was the first time the other three original members—guitarist Tony Iommi, bassist Geezer Butler, and vocalist Ozzy—recorded together since 1978’s *Never Say Die!*
For *13*, Black Sabbath required a drummer since their touring drummer, Tommy Clufetos, had replaced Ward earlier that year. Ultimately, Rage Against the Machine’s Brad Wilk played on *13*, and both he and Clufetos contributed to Black Sabbath’s final EP, *The End*, in 2016.
Black Sabbath’s History of Drummers
Bill Ward was Black Sabbath’s original and final drummer, returning to his former bandmates for their monumental *Back to the Beginning* final show on July 5, 2025, in Birmingham, England. Throughout their 55-year history, the band has seen several drummers come and go, including Vinny Appice, who played on both *Mob Rules* (1981) and *Dehumanizer* (1992), as well as Cozy Powell and Bobby Rondinelli on various albums.
Other Zak Starkey News
In 2025, Starkey experienced several missed opportunities. Earlier that year, he was fired twice from The Who, with guitarist/vocalist Pete Townshend stating that “the time has come for a change.” Starkey expressed disappointment over not being part of Oasis’ 2025 reunion tour, having played with the band from 2004 to 2008. He later acknowledged that he understood the decision to go with drummer Joey Waronker instead.
Other Black Sabbath + Ozzy Osbourne News
The Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne camps have been active following Ozzy’s death. A concert film about their final show is set to be released in theaters in 2026. Many rock musicians, including members of Motley Crue, Soundgarden, and Megadeth, have commented on their absence from this iconic event.
Ozzy’s passing has had a profound impact on the rock and metal community, with tributes pouring in from all corners, including fellow musicians like Geezer Butler, Bill Ward, and Tony Iommi. Even Kermit the Frog and PETA shared their condolences, highlighting Ozzy’s wide-reaching influence.
Additionally, Ozzy has announced his second memoir, *Last Rites*, and his final social media post turned into an online fan memorial, celebrating his legacy.
Conclusion
Zak Starkey’s decision not to join Black Sabbath remains a notable moment in rock history, especially considering the band’s significant impact on the genre. As the community continues to mourn Ozzy Osbourne, the legacy of Black Sabbath—and the drummers who contributed to their sound—will remain a crucial part of music history.
FAQs
Why did Zak Starkey decline the offer to join Black Sabbath?
While Starkey did not specify the exact reasons for declining the offer, it has been noted that he was dealing with a tendon issue in 2013, which may have influenced his decision.
Who played drums on Black Sabbath’s final album *13*?
Brad Wilk from Rage Against the Machine played drums on Black Sabbath’s final album, *13*.
What is the significance of Ozzy Osbourne’s passing?
Ozzy Osbourne’s passing on July 22, 2025, marked a significant loss for the rock and metal community, prompting tributes and remembrances from fans and fellow musicians alike.
