Sir Brian May pays emotional tribute to Ozzy Osbourne as Queen legend recalls private chat after farewell show
Queen guitarist Sir Brian May has shared an emotional farewell to Ozzy Osbourne following the rock legend’s death, posting a heartfelt message on Instagram.
May expressed deep sorrow at the news, describing Osbourne’s final performance at Villa Park as “a glorious way to say goodbye” and noting the immense affection shown by the crowd.
“The love in that place for him was gigantic,” May wrote. The Queen guitarist revealed he had spoken privately with Osbourne following that last concert and expressed gratitude for the opportunity.
The full statement read: “So sad to hear of Ozzie’s passing. His last appearance at Villa Park was a glorious way to say goodbye – the love in that place for him was gigantic.
“I’m grateful I was able to have a few quiet words with him after the show. And happy to know he passed peacefully with his loving family close by.
“But the world will miss Ozzie’s unique presence and fearless talent. My heartfelt consolations to Sharon and their great family.
“And to Bill and Geezer and my dear friend Tony – for this is family – I know only too well. REST IN PEACE dear Ozzie. Bri.”
The Black Sabbath frontman passed away on Tuesday morning at 76 years old, with the news confirmed in an announcement from his family.
The statement, signed by Sharon, Jack, Kelly, Amy and Louis, conveyed their profound grief: “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.”
The family confirmed he died whilst surrounded by loved ones and requested privacy during their time of mourning.
The rock icon, who had been battling Parkinson’s disease, died unexpectedly in the UK just weeks after performing his final concert.
His death occurred at the family’s British residence, where the couple had been staying following Black Sabbath’s farewell performance at Aston Villa stadium on July 5.
The Osbournes had been preparing to relocate permanently from Los Angeles to their Buckinghamshire home after decades in America.
A family friend revealed that Sharon, 72, had devoted considerable time to readying their English residence for her husband’s return.
“Ozzy was always meant to come back to Britain to live in Buckinghamshire, it was where Sharon had spent so long preparing their family home for him,” the source told Mail Online.
The family had hoped the 76-year-old would have more time, with concerns at one stage that he might not manage the journey from California for his farewell performance.
Kelly, 40, and Aimee, 41, had visited the UK property recently, whilst son Jack, 39, travelled from Idaho to witness his father’s final concert.
The entertainment world has united in mourning, with numerous music icons sharing tributes to the late singer.
Sir Elton John remembered Osbourne as “a dear friend and a huge trailblazer who secured his place in the pantheon of rock gods – a true legend.”
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The Rocket Man singer added: “He was also one of the funniest people I’ve ever met. I will miss him dearly.”
Rod Stewart, 80, posted a brief but poignant message on Instagram: “Bye, Bye Ozzy. Sleep well, my friend. I’ll see you up there – later rather than sooner.”
Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood expressed his sadness, writing: “What a lovely goodbye concert he had at Back To The Beginning in Birmingham.”