Yungblud Defends His Ozzy Osbourne Tribute Performance at the VMAs

Yungblud is standing up against the criticism he’s received from fellow musicians regarding his tribute performance to Ozzy Osbourne during the MTV Video Music Awards in September. The 28-year-old English singer participated in a star-studded homage to the legendary rocker, sharing the stage with icons like Joe Perry and Steven Tyler of Aerosmith and Nuno Bettencourt from Extreme. Together, they performed a medley of Ozzy’s timeless classics, including “Changes,” “Mama I’m Coming Home,” and “Crazy Train.”

Yungblud’s Response to VMAs Criticism

In a recent appearance on Jack Osbourne’s podcast, “Trying Not to Die,” Yungblud addressed the negative feedback he received about his performance. He emphasized that those who engage in hateful criticism often lack emotional maturity and success.

Insights on Criticism

“The thing about hate is you will never see someone that’s bigger or more emotionally evolved than you talk shit on you,” Yungblud remarked. He illustrated his point by referencing established musicians who refrain from belittling emerging artists. “You ain’t ever going to see fucking James Hetfield slag off a young rock star,” he said, highlighting that successful artists don’t feel the need to undermine others.

Who Criticized Yungblud’s VMA Performance?

Among the critics was Dan Hawkins, guitarist for The Darkness. He shared a clip of Yungblud’s performance on Instagram, labeling it as “another nail in the coffin for rock’n roll.” Hawkins described the performance as “cynical, nauseating and more importantly, shit,” expressing his discontent over artists who leverage such moments for personal gain.

Yungblud’s Perspective on the Criticism

Yungblud suggested that the harsh critiques stem from a place of bitterness and jealousy. “They are doing the things they say we are doing,” he explained, indicating that critics are attempting to insert themselves into the conversation in order to gain relevance in the wake of his tribute to one of rock’s greatest figures.

Jack Osbourne’s Emotional Support

During the podcast, Jack Osbourne became emotional as he reflected on the backlash against Yungblud’s performance. He noted that many critics are unaware of the depth of Yungblud’s relationship with Ozzy and the Osbourne family. “You were so much more involved,” Jack said, expressing frustration over the lack of understanding from those who criticized Yungblud.

Encouragement from Jack

Before Yungblud took the stage, he received a supportive text from Jack Osbourne, which read, “Fucking crush it.” This message underscored the respect and connection Yungblud had with Ozzy, as he aimed to honor the rock legend through his performance. “All I was trying to do was my best for your old man because he gave me such a gift,” Yungblud reflected on his motivations that night.

Looking Ahead

Despite the backlash, Yungblud is moving forward with his music career. He recently announced a North American tour set for 2026, which will kick off in Sterling Heights, Michigan, on May 1. Fans can find a complete list of tour dates and ticket information on his official website.

Conclusion

Yungblud’s tribute to Ozzy Osbourne at the MTV VMAs sparked both admiration and criticism. While he faced backlash from some musicians, he remains steadfast in his commitment to honor the rock legend, emphasizing the importance of emotional maturity and support within the music community. As he prepares for his upcoming tour, it’s clear that Yungblud is focused on his artistry and the connections that matter most to him.

FAQs

What songs did Yungblud perform in the Ozzy Osbourne tribute?

Yungblud performed a medley that included “Changes,” “Mama I’m Coming Home,” and “Crazy Train.”

Who criticized Yungblud’s performance at the VMAs?

Dan Hawkins, guitarist for The Darkness, was one of the most vocal critics, describing the performance as “cynical” and “nauseating.”

What did Jack Osbourne say about Yungblud’s performance?

Jack Osbourne expressed his frustration over critics who did not understand Yungblud’s connection to his father, Ozzy, emphasizing that Yungblud had a deeper involvement than many realized.

When is Yungblud’s North American tour starting?

Yungblud’s North American tour will begin on May 1, 2026, in Sterling Heights, Michigan.