Aston Villa Football Club is set to pay homage to the legendary BLACK SABBATH frontman, Ozzy Osbourne, ahead of their Premier League opener against Newcastle United at Villa Park in Birmingham. Ozzy, a native of Aston, passed away last month at the age of 76, leaving behind an indelible mark on the rock world and the community he cherished.
The Prince of Darkness headlined the unforgettable ‘Back To The Beginning’ concert at Villa Park just weeks before his passing, marking a poignant farewell with an all-star lineup, including his iconic band, BLACK SABBATH. As Aston Villa prepares for their first home game since Ozzy’s passing, the club has orchestrated a series of tributes to honor his legacy.
A stirring video tribute will grace the big screens following the players’ warmup, with the teams making their entrance to the electrifying sounds of Ozzy’s live ‘Crazy Train’ performance from the recent concert. A new mural dedicated to Ozzy has been commissioned on the external wall of the Holte Pub, capturing the essence of the iconic tifo from last season’s Champions League fixture against Celtic.
In the Fan Zone, Bostin Brass, who played at Ozzy’s funeral procession in Birmingham, will perform a selection of his and BLACK SABBATH’s greatest hits. Fans will also have the chance to step back in time at the Fan Zone Bar, which served as the exclusive artist backstage area during ‘Back To The Beginning,’ with remnants of the original branding and carved trees available for fans to engage with.
Supporters can also express their condolences in a book available at the Villa Store, which will be presented to Ozzy’s family. Aston Villa takes pride in celebrating Ozzy Osbourne, a music legend who held a special place in the heart of the club.
Ozzy Osbourne passed away on July 22 due to a heart attack, with his death certificate revealing underlying coronary artery disease and Parkinson’s disease. A private funeral service was held on July 31 at his Buckinghamshire estate, attended by close friends and family, including his SABBATH bandmates and rock luminaries such as Robert Trujillo, Rob Zombie, Zakk Wylde, Marilyn Manson, and Corey Taylor.
The day before the private ceremony, Birmingham’s streets were filled with thousands of fans paying their respects, joined by Sharon Osbourne and their children Aimée, Kelly, and Jack. This tribute by Aston Villa ensures Ozzy’s spirit will always be an integral part of the community he loved.
