**Thousands Pay Their Respects as Ozzy Osbourne’s Funeral Draws Fans to Birmingham**
Birmingham witnessed a poignant scene today as thousands of fans from across the UK and beyond made their way to the city streets to honour the life and legacy of Ozzy Osbourne, the iconic frontman of Black Sabbath. The outpouring of emotion was evident as the city, which Osbourne called home, served as the backdrop for his final journey.
The legendary singer, aged 76, died on Tuesday, 22 July, mere weeks after his last live performance. His passing marks the end of an era for British rock, and for many, this afternoon’s funeral procession through Birmingham represented not only a personal farewell, but also a collective moment of reflection for the music community. The city has long been associated with Osbourne, who is credited with shaping the landscape of heavy metal.
By mid-morning, crowds had lined Broad Street, braving the summer heat to catch a glimpse of the cortege as it made its way past significant city landmarks. The Black Sabbath Bridge and Bench, named in tribute to the band, became a temporary shrine, draped in floral arrangements, handwritten messages, and snapshots capturing Ozzy at various stages of his career. Many attendees shared stories of how his music had inspired them, while some arrived in Black Sabbath t-shirts and carried homemade banners.
Organisers made clear that the funeral procession was open to the public, allowing fans to gather and remember Osbourne’s larger-than-life persona. Local businesses along the procession route displayed signs expressing condolences and gratitude for Ozzy’s cultural impact, turning the city into a living memorial for the day. The event has also been live-streamed, allowing fans across the world to participate in the celebrations of his life.
Commentators agree that the turnout underscores Osbourne’s significance, not just within the music industry, but also as a figure who brought pride to Birmingham. Throughout his career, Osbourne was open about his working-class roots, frequently referencing his upbringing in Aston, which contributed to his everyman appeal and enduring relatability. Today, the sense of loss felt by the community was palpable, with some fans interviewed describing the day as “bitter-sweet”.
Osbourne, dubbed the “Prince of Darkness”, became emblematic of the heavy metal genre, a status achieved through years of dedication to his craft and a unique ability to connect with audiences. His influence extended beyond music, permeating popular culture, particularly through his involvement with reality television and his candid discussions on personal struggles and triumphs.
This afternoon’s events have also drawn messages of condolence from public figures and musicians around the globe, paying tribute to Osbourne’s unrivalled contribution to contemporary music. Many artists credit him as an inspiration and a trailblazer who challenged conventions and always remained authentic to his roots.
As the cortege moved through Birmingham, a respectful silence fell intermittently over the crowd, testament to the deep admiration felt for Osbourne. Alongside emotional tributes, the atmosphere featured moments of joyous reminiscence, with well-wishers singing snippets of his most beloved songs, underscoring the enduring spirit of his music.
It is clear from the turnout and the heartfelt tributes that the city of Birmingham, and indeed much of the world, will remember Ozzy Osbourne not only as a formidable artist, but also as a symbol of resilience and originality. As the crowd slowly dispersed after the procession, the echoes of his music and influence lingered in the air – a fitting farewell for one of Britain’s music legends.