The Loss of Ozzy Osbourne is Felt Beyond the Rock Genre

Ozzy Osbourne, the iconic “Prince of Darkness,” died peacefully on July 22, 2025, at the age of 76, just weeks after his final performance at Villa Park in Birmingham with Black Sabbath—a farewell titled “Back to the Beginning”. His death has rocked fans and musicians alike, prompting tributes from rock and pop luminaries such as Elton John, Rod Stewart, Alice Cooper, and Metallica. Fellow Sabbath members Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward mourned their “brother,” reflecting on decades spent forging heavy metal’s foundation.

While the rock world has poured out its grief, country music icons have also offered touching sentiments. Most notably, Dolly Parton, who could not attend Ozzy’s final concert, recorded a warm, personal video message that played during the show on July 5th.

In her gentle country drawl, she said:

Her message not only bridged musical worlds but underscored the universality of their bond—two legends bound by their powerful presence and authenticity. At a time when Ozzy’s voice had grown softer and his movement more frail, Dolly’s words symbolized enduring strength and compassion.

Ozzy’s passing has provoked deeper reflection on his life’s work—the creation of heavy metal as a genre, his signature voice and unabashed persona. Even though Ozzy wouldn't be caught dead putting out a country album, his impact on the music community spans genres.

At the 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction, Jelly Roll honored Ozzy Osbourne with a powerful performance of “Mama, I’m Coming Home.” He delivered the ballad as Ozzy watched from a gothic-style throne. On social media, Jelly Roll said he “never even dreamed” of such a moment and recalled listening to Ozzy’s music as a child with his family.

Carrie Underwood also paid tribute to Ozzy by covering “Mama, I’m Coming Home.” She first released an acoustic version in 2022 through Apple Music, calling it one of her “all-time favorite songs.” In 2023, she performed it live on The Howard Stern Show, revealing Ozzy called during the broadcast to say he loved it.

Both performances were praised by fans and Ozzy’s family. Jelly Roll’s heartfelt delivery and Carrie’s soaring vocals helped introduce Ozzy’s music to new audiences, showing how deeply his songs resonate beyond heavy metal.

Their tributes, and Dolly's message, highlight Ozzy’s legacy as a cross-genre icon and the profound respect he commanded across artistic communities. From country to metal, his music continues to inspire artists of all backgrounds and generations. His departure diminishes a cultural icon whose music comforted outsiders, energized stages, and united fans around shared rebellion and humanity.

RIP Ozzy Osbourne. You will be missed!