# Ozzy Osbourne: A Look Back Through Geezer Butler's Eyes

The music world was recently rocked by the passing of heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne. As one of his closest collaborators and co-founder of Black Sabbath, bassist Geezer Butler shared some poignant memories of their time together in a recent post on The Sunday Times.

## A Frail Ozzy

Butler revealed that in the weeks leading up to the band's final concert on July 5, he was taken aback by how fragile Ozzy seemed. This stark contrast between his public persona and private state highlights the complexities of life behind the spotlight.

"I was shocked by how frail he was in those last few weeks," Butler wrote. "He had been through so much with Parkinson's disease, but it still caught me off guard."

This revelation underscores the struggles Ozzy faced in his personal life while maintaining an image that defined a generation of metalheads.

## A Legacy of Darkness and Redemption

As one half of the most influential heavy metal band of all time, Butler and Ozzy Osbourne left an indelible mark on music history. From their debut album "Black Sabbath" (1970) to their later work with Randy Rhoads, Bob Daisley, and Neil Murray, they explored themes of darkness, redemption, and the human condition.

Their innovative style, which blended doom-laden riffs with catchy hooks and socially conscious lyrics, helped shape the genre and inspire countless bands. Classics like "Paranoid" (1970), "Iron Man" (1971), and "Symptom of the Universe" (1980) continue to resonate with fans worldwide.

## A Complicated Friendship

Butler's relationship with Ozzy was multifaceted, spanning over five decades. They formed a bond that went beyond musical partnership, sharing experiences both on and off stage. However, their friendship was not without its challenges.

Ozzy's struggles with addiction and mental health issues often put a strain on their partnership. Butler has spoken publicly about the difficulties of managing Ozzy's erratic behavior, which sometimes threatened to derail the band's momentum.

Despite these complexities, Butler remained committed to supporting his friend and collaborator, even when faced with difficult decisions that affected the band's trajectory.

## Black Sabbath's Final Concert

On July 5, Black Sabbath took to the stage for their final concert at London's O2 Arena. The show was a poignant farewell to Ozzy, who had retired from touring due to his health struggles.

Butler reflected on the significance of that night, stating: "It was an incredible experience… We all knew it was our last gig, and we wanted to make it special."

The concert marked the culmination of a storied career, with Butler looking back fondly on the journey that brought them to this momentous occasion.

## A Lasting Impact

As news of Ozzy's passing spreads, fans around the world are left to reflect on his enduring legacy. From his wild stage antics to his iconic songs, Ozzy Osbourne will be deeply missed by those who knew him and the millions he inspired through his music.

For Geezer Butler, their shared history with Black Sabbath serves as a testament to the power of friendship, perseverance, and creative expression. As one half of this influential duo, Butler's stories offer insight into the highs and lows that defined Ozzy Osbourne's remarkable life.

In closing, it is clear that Ozzy's impact extends far beyond his own music. He helped forge a new genre, inspired countless musicians, and left an indelible mark on popular culture. As we say goodbye to this metal icon, we remember the dark and rebellious spirit he embodied – and the unforgettable songs that will forever be etched in our collective consciousness.

Timeline of Ozzy Osbourne's Career:

• 1968: Forms band Polka Tulk with Tony Iommi, Bill Ward, and Don Kaye
• 1970: Forms Black Sabbath with Tony Iommi, Bill Ward, and Geezer Butler
• 1973: Leaves Black Sabbath to pursue solo career
• 1987: Rejoins Black Sabbath with Ronnie James Dio on vocals

Key Songs by Ozzy Osbourne:

• "Paranoid"
• "Iron Man"
• "Symptom of the Universe"
• "Crazy Train"

Notable Collaborations and Albums:

• Randy Rhoads (1980-1982)
• Bob Daisley (1981-1984)
• Neil Murray (1995)

The End.