The world of rock is still reeling from the loss of Ozzy Osbourne, and now, longtime friend and guitarist Zakk Wylde has shared a deeply personal glimpse into their final moments — a text message that’s left fans in tears.
“I Love You, Buddy” — Ozzy’s Final Words to Zakk
In a recent interview with Guitar World, Zakk Wylde opened up about the last time he heard from the legendary Black Sabbath frontman. Just hours after Ozzy’s farewell performance on July 5th in Birmingham, the singer sent Zakk a simple, heartfelt message.
“Zakky, sorry, it was like a madhouse back there. I didn’t see you. Thanks for everything… I love you, buddy.”
What seemed like a casual apology in the chaos of a final show has now become something far more profound — a goodbye wrapped in love, gratitude, and decades of shared history.
More Than Bandmates — A Bond Like Family
Wylde reflected on their relationship, saying Ozzy was “almost like an older brother.” The two had shared the stage, the studio, and countless unforgettable moments. Their bond wasn’t just musical — it was personal. Ozzy was even the Godfather to Zakk’s eldest son.
During that last concert, Wylde said his priority was simply to “make sure Ozzy was okay.” He didn’t know it would be the final time they’d share the same air on stage.
A Farewell That Came Too Soon
Ozzy Osbourne passed away on July 22nd at the age of 76, just a few weeks after his farewell show. He had long battled Parkinson’s disease and dealt with complications from a 2003 quad bike accident.
His passing sent shockwaves across the music world. Tributes poured in from artists, fans, and friends — but none more poignant than Zakk Wylde’s Instagram post:
“THANKS FOR MAKING LIFE AMAZING, OZ — YOU’VE ALWAYS BEEN & WILL ALWAYS BE THE GREATEST. I LOVE YOU. BEYOND FOREVER.”
A Legacy That Will Echo Forever
The July 5th concert in Birmingham — the city where Black Sabbath was born — was a momentous event. It marked the first reunion of Sabbath’s original lineup in two decades, and it will now serve as Ozzy’s final bow. The show is set to be released as a full-length concert film in 2026, giving fans one last chance to witness the Prince of Darkness in his element.
Ozzy’s funeral procession, held in his hometown of Birmingham, was attended by family, including Sharon Osbourne and their children, along with close friends and musical peers.
The Final Goodbye
What makes Ozzy’s last message to Zakk so powerful is its simplicity. No grand statements. No rehearsed goodbyes. Just a man who’d lived a larger-than-life career, reaching out to say thank you — and “I love you, buddy.”
For Zakk Wylde, and for millions of fans, those words will echo louder than any guitar riff. They were the last note in a lifetime of music, madness, and love.
Ozzy Osbourne — 1949–2025
Long live the Prince of Darkness.
