The world of rock music was shaken to its core on July 22, 2025, with the passing of Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary “Prince of Darkness” and Black Sabbath’s iconic frontman. At 76, Ozzy’s death marked the end of an era, leaving fans and fellow musicians reeling. Among the first to express his grief was one of Ozzy’s closest friends and collaborators — Sir Elton John.
Elton’s Heartfelt Tribute: “So Sad to Hear the News”
Elton John didn’t just share his sorrow; he poured his heart out in a moving Instagram post, alongside a nostalgic photo of the two from their early days.
“So sad to hear the news of @ozzyosbourne passing away. He was a dear friend and a huge trailblazer who secured his place in the pantheon of rock gods – a true legend. He was also one of the funniest people I’ve ever met. I will miss him dearly. To Sharon and the family, I send my condolences and love. — Elton xx”
Their friendship, built on mutual respect and a shared understanding of the highs and lows of fame, went beyond the public eye. Together, they made magic in the studio — none more profound than their 2020 collaboration on the ballad “Ordinary Man.”
“Ordinary Man” – A Heartfelt Goodbye
The 2020 duet between Elton John and Ozzy Osbourne wasn’t just a song; it was a window into the soul of a man coming to terms with his life, fame, and legacy. Now, following Ozzy’s death, the lyrics of “Ordinary Man” feel like an eerie, yet beautiful, farewell.
🎵 “I was unprepared for fame
Then everybody knew my name.”
🎵 “Yes, I’ve been a bad guy, been higher than the blue sky
And the truth is I don’t wanna die an ordinary man.”
What was once a reflection on mortality and fame has transformed into a final message from Ozzy to his fans — a heartfelt goodbye wrapped in the raw honesty that defined his career.
A Friendship Forged in Struggle and Respect
Despite their different musical worlds — Elton’s glamorous pop-rock and Ozzy’s gritty heavy metal — their bond was unbreakable. Both struggled with addiction, survived the crushing weight of fame, and, through it all, used music as their therapy. Elton has always spoken highly of Ozzy’s authenticity. “Ozzy was fearless,” Elton once said. “There was nothing fake about him — he lived and breathed every note he sang.”
The World Mourns a Rock Legend
Fans around the globe took to social media, sharing memories of Ozzy and the deep connection between him and Elton. Many recalled their unforgettable performances, and the song “Ordinary Man” now hits even harder:
“This song hits so much harder now.”
“Ozzy and Elton — two legends, one unforgettable moment.”
“‘Ordinary Man’ is now a goodbye letter.”
Ozzy Osbourne’s Legacy: A Legend Who Lived and Died Unordinary
Ozzy Osbourne leaves behind an unparalleled legacy: over 100 million records sold, 3 GRAMMYs, and a catalog of performances that have shaped the sound of rock and metal for decades. He was more than a rock star; he was a cultural icon, and his influence extends far beyond the stage.
His final message to the world? The words from his own song:
“I don’t wanna die an ordinary man.”
And he didn’t. He died a legend.
🎥 Watch the emotional music video for “Ordinary Man,” a tribute that now carries even more weight, as fans continue to remember the man who was anything but ordinary.
