Zakk Wylde's Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne: The Story Behind 'Ozzy's Song' and the Back to the Beginning Black Sabbath Tribute Concert

Zakk Wylde's Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne: The Story Behind 'Ozzy's Song' and the Back to the Beginning Black Sabbath Tribute Concert

Zakk Wylde, the frontman of Black Label Society and longtime guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne, shared his thoughts on the Back to the Beginning Black Sabbath tribute concert that took place in 2025. He believed that the event could have become an annual tradition if Ozzy had not passed away shortly after. Zakk envisioned the tribute concert happening in different countries each year, with all proceeds going to charity.

The tribute concert, which featured over a dozen metal icons like Metallica, Guns ‘n’ Roses, Tool, and Slayer, was held at Birmingham’s Villa Park on July 5, 2025. This turned out to be Ozzy’s final live performance before his passing on July 22. Zakk Wylde's upcoming album with Black Label Society, Engines of Demolition, includes a track titled "Ozzy’s Song," which he wrote as a tribute to Ozzy immediately after his funeral.

Zakk Wylde revealed that the inspiration for the song's title came from his wife, who referred to it as "Ozzy's Song" when he played it for her. The song was recorded using Zakk's custom Les Paul guitar, known as 'The Grail,' which he used during his time as Ozzy's guitarist. The solo in "Ozzy’s Song" was performed on 'The Grail,' adding a special connection to both the first and last songs Zakk wrote with Ozzy.

Engines of Demolition is set to be released on March 27 through Spinefarm Records, showcasing Zakk Wylde's heartfelt tribute to his longtime collaborator and friend, Ozzy Osbourne.