Black Sabbath's Ozzy Osbourne Dies at 76 - Rockers Pay Tribute

The music world is in mourning after the death of metal legend Ozzy Osbourne, just weeks after he made his final performance at the Back to the Beginning concert with Black Sabbath in his hometown of Birmingham, England.

"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," his family said in a statement on Tuesday (July 22). "He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time. Sharon, Jack, Kelly, Aimee and Louis."

Health problems plagued Osbourne over his last several years. In late 2018, he suffered a serious cut on his thumb that the rocker said caused it to swell to “the size of a fuckin’ light bulb.” He was diagnosed with staph infections in his hand and underwent emergency surgery to prevent further damage and potential death. The infliction caused him to postpone several shows.

After seemingly recovering from the injury, a reenergized Osbourne announced additional dates to his No More Tours 2 farewell tour. Unfortunately, this upswing was short-lived. In January 2019, Osbourne was forced to postpone U.K. and European tour dates due to an upper respiratory infection. That eventually led to another hospital stay.

News of Osbourne's death began to reverberate through the rock and metal community on Tuesday afternoon with many sharing their admiration, respect and love for the legendary icon that was born John Michael "Ozzy" Osbourne in 1948.

One of the first to chime in was Machine Head frontman Robb Flynn, who noted, "Absolutely gutted to hear about the passing of Ozzy. Both Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne band are more of an influence on my singing, lyrics, songwriting, guitar playing than words can even speak. I love you Ozzy. Rest in power to the greatest to ever do it."

Tom Morello, who recently served as musical director on the Back to the Beginning show, offered a more succinct tribute that sums up what many are feeling, "God bless you Ozzy."

Black Sabbath meanwhile offered up the simple mantra, "Ozzy forever."

Below you'll find a collection of responses from the music and entertainment community as a whole, with artists paying tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne. We'll continue to add to the post throughout the day as more reactions come in.