Black Sabbath bench: Final Farewell to a Rock Legend
Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary frontman of Black Sabbath, received a moving tribute today as fans gathered in Birmingham, U.K., for his funeral procession. The procession honored the 76-year-old icon who passed away last week, giving fans one last opportunity to say goodbye.
A Procession to the Black Sabbath Bench
The event began at 1 p.m. local time (8 a.m. ET) and moved through Broad Street, a cultural landmark in Birmingham, eventually arriving at the now-iconic Black Sabbath bench. The bench is part of a canal-side tribute to the band’s original lineup: Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward.
This bench has become a central gathering place for fans, especially since Osbourne’s passing. Covered in flowers, personal notes, photos, and memorabilia, the site has become a symbol of the rock legend’s enduring legacy.
“Final Stop on the Crazy Train”
Among the most touching tributes was a handwritten message pinned to an Aston Villa soccer jersey:
“Final Stop on the Crazy Train? But Metal Lives Forever.”
The phrase references Osbourne’s iconic solo hit “Crazy Train”, which experienced a streaming resurgence following his death, landing for the first time on the Billboard Hot 100 at No. 46.
A City Pays Tribute
Zafar Iqbal, Birmingham’s Lord Mayor, called Osbourne “a son of Birmingham” and emphasized the city’s pride in hosting a tribute worthy of the rock legend.
“We know how much this moment will mean to his fans. We’re proud to host it here, with his loving family, in the place where it all began.”
For fans unable to attend in person, the city offered a livestream of the Black Sabbath bench, allowing viewers from around the world—including the U.S.—to join virtually.
Osbourne’s Final Days
Ozzy Osbourne retired from touring in 2023 due to complications from Parkinson’s disease, a degenerative disorder he was diagnosed with in 2020. His final public performance came less than three weeks before his death, when he reunited on stage with his Black Sabbath bandmates in Birmingham.
The Legacy Lives On
As fans continue to visit the Black Sabbath bench, the site stands as more than just a memorial — it’s a symbol of Osbourne’s influence on music and culture worldwide. For American fans, it represents the heart of heavy metal’s origins and the lasting impact of the Prince of Darkness.
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