No one did it quite like Ozzy. Credited as a forefather of heavy metal alongside his band Black Sabbath, boasting several more classic solo albums, and leaving behind a legacy that spans multiple generations, it’s no wonder the tributes to the legendary singer have been loud and far-reaching.
When the news about the Prince of Darkness came through, the musical world and beyond, from Lady Gaga to Kermit the Frog to Metallica, passed on their gratitude and shared stories with the world about Ozzy. But nothing quite compares to spending time in the man’s company itself, be it blasting Paranoid on your record player; attending a Black Sabbath concert, or reading his words. And as for that last one, you’ll soon be able to take in some new ones, as his final memoir is set for release at the end of this year.
As reported by Consequence, Ozzy Osbourne’s memoir Last Rites is slated for release on October 7, published via Grand Central Publishing.
The publisher’s website provides a quote from Ozzy Osbourne, which says: “People say to me, if you could do it all again, knowing what you know now, would you change anything? I’m like, f*** no. If I’d been clean and sober, I wouldn’t be Ozzy. If I’d done normal, sensible things, I wouldn’t be Ozzy. Look, if it ends tomorrow, I can’t complain. I’ve been all around the world. Seen a lot of things. I’ve done good… and I’ve done bad. But right now, I’m not ready to go anywhere.”
The book is Ozzy’s third major memoir work, following on from I Am Ozzy (2010) and Trust Me, I’m Dr. Ozzy: Advice From Rock’s Ultimate Survivor. Last Rites tells of Ozzy facing near-total paralysis from the neck down after abandoning his solo farewell world tour due to a finger infection, describing his illness while reflecting on his entire life and career. Hear about his marriage to Sharon Osbourne, as well as what it took to become well enough to perform at his final concert.
Ozzy Osbourne passed away on Tuesday, July 22 at the age of 76, with his final public appearance being a celebration of Black Sabbath and his solo career, with the legendary singer performing two sets while sitting in a throne after an entire day of tributes to him and the band. This featured performances from Metallica, Alice In Chains, Ronnie Wood, Steven Tyler, Lamb Of God, Guns N’ Roses, and many more.
His family posted a statement on the day of his passing that read: “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time.
Sharon, Jack, Kelly, Aimee and Louis.”
‘Last Rites’ is due for release on October 7 via Grand Central Publishing. It is available for pre-order here.
