BIRMINGHAM, United Kingdom — Thousands of fans gathered in Birmingham on July 30, 2025, to pay tribute to Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary lead singer of Black Sabbath, during an emotional funeral procession through the city. Osbourne, renowned as the “Prince of Darkness” and infamous for his wild stage antics, passed away on July 22 at 76 years old, following a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis in 2019.

The solemn procession began around 12:00 GMT, with Osbourne’s coffin transported in a black Jaguar hearse adorned with flowers, moving along a carefully planned route chosen by his family. Crowds lining the streets chanted "Ozzy! Ozzy! Ozzy!" and expressed their admiration as the cortege passed notable landmarks, including the singer’s childhood home in Aston.

Local musicians from Bostin’ Brass provided a live brass band soundtrack that added to the poignant atmosphere. Among those present, fan Mhairi Larner shared, "It was overwhelming and deeply emotional to be part of Birmingham’s farewell to a star who was so proud of his origins. I’ve been a fan my whole life and even introduced my son to his music." Another attendee, 16-year-old Reece Sargeant, highlighted the band’s impact: "Ozzy and Black Sabbath put Birmingham on the map — their final concert was truly out of this world."

The procession paused at the Black Sabbath Bridge, where a dedicated bench commemorates the band with portraits of its members. Here, Osbourne’s widow Sharon Osbourne, alongside his children Jack and Kelly, laid flowers and read tributes left by mourners. The site has become a focal point for fans mourning the influential musician whose pioneering role in heavy metal reshaped music.

Lord Mayor of Birmingham Zafar Iqbal remarked, "Ozzy was more than a music legend — he was a son of Birmingham. It was important for the city to honor him with a dignified tribute before a private family funeral. We are proud to host this moment in the place where his journey began."

Black Sabbath, formed in Birmingham in 1968, achieved global success with landmark albums such as their self-titled debut and hits like "Paranoid." The band sold over 75 million albums worldwide and earned induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2006; Osbourne was inducted again as a solo artist in 2024.

Known for his unpredictable behavior and legendary excess, Osbourne's career was marked by numerous iconic moments, including a notorious 1982 performance in Des Moines when he bit a bat on stage, mistakenly believing it was a prop. Despite personal struggles, his influence on rock music remains undeniable.

The funeral procession concluded as it continued to a private family service, marking the end of a public farewell to one of rock’s most enduring icons.