Last week, legendary heavy metal band Black Sabbath revealed their plans for a remarkable reunion featuring all four original members for a one-time all-star concert event. This special occasion is set to honor the final live performance of Ozzy Osbourne. In a notable twist, classic Ozzy bassist Bob Daisley expressed his feelings regarding not being invited to participate in Osbourne?s farewell show.
Bob Daisley Reflects on His Exclusion from Ozzy’s Farewell Performance
Daisley, who played a crucial role in shaping Ozzy?s entire solo catalog throughout the 1980s, recently shared his thoughts with the YouTube channel Indie Power TV about this perceived slight. During an interview aired on February 6, Daisley reminisced about his successful tenure with Ozzy, candidly stating: ?To be honest with you, I don’t think I’d wanna be a part of that day. It’ll be awkward, but it could turn out as an embarrassment as well, but we’ll see.? His reflections highlight the complexity of their past together.
READ MORE: The 20 Ozzy Osbourne-Era Songs Black Sabbath Never Played Live
According to Blabbermouth, Daisley also discussed the lack of recognition he received when Ozzy was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame last October. He admitted:
I didn’t expect [to get a mention]. I knew that was coming, because there’s been some dirty water gone under the bridge between us ? there’s been lawsuits and legal issues and that ? so I was not surprised when I didn’t get a mention. Many people thought that it was wrong and that I should have got a mention. But I really didn’t expect it, so I wasn’t surprised.
Despite these grievances, Daisley spoke fondly of the original lineup of Ozzy?s band, which notably included the late guitar virtuoso Randy Rhoads. He shared his insights:
It was a chemistry and a formula that worked, and it worked very well. I don’t think any one of us could have been replaced with anyone else and have it work like it did. Ozzy’s voice, tone, and melodies were integral to the sound and deliverance of everything that we did. And Randy and me working together musically first, and then me writing the lyrics to Ozzy’s vocal melodies, it all just jelled [sic]. And Lee was definitely the last piece of the puzzle that helped the chemistry and the big picture.
You can watch Daisley’s complete interview with Indie Power TV below.
The Remarkable Journey of Bob Daisley with Ozzy Osbourne
For many devoted fans of heavy metal, it?s well-known that Daisley co-founded Ozzy?s solo band back in 1979. He played an instrumental role in the production, songwriting, and bass performances for every studio and live album from 1980?s Blizzard of Ozz to 1991?s No More Tears. His contributions led to the creation of timeless tracks such as ?Crazy Train,? ?Mr. Crowley,? ?Bark at the Moon,? and ?Mama, I?m Coming Home.? During this prolific period, Daisley also collaborated with other prominent artists like Rainbow, Uriah Heep, and Gary Moore.
However, due to creative and personal conflicts, he was initially dismissed from the band in 1981. Despite this, he returned intermittently over the following decade to take on various roles. Throughout the last 25 years, Daisley has engaged in multiple legal battles against Ozzy regarding unpaid royalties and recognition for his contributions on studio recordings, all of which have ultimately been dismissed.
What to Expect from Black Sabbath?s Historic Reunion Show and Ozzy?s Final Performance
As reported by Loudwire, Black Sabbath?s reunion concert, which will also mark Ozzy?s final live performance, is scheduled for July 5 at Villa Park in Birmingham. The lineup will feature a plethora of iconic metal acts, including Pantera, Metallica, Slayer, Gojira, Alice in Chains, Mastodon, and Anthrax. Special guests set to join the festivities include Billy Corgan, K.K. Downing, Frank Bello, David Draiman, Zakk Wylde, and Wolfgang Van Halen.
This all-day event, dubbed Black to the Beginning ? The Final Show, promises to be a monumental occasion for metal enthusiasts. It’s not just a reunion of the genre’s pioneers but also a chance for Ozzy to return to the stage after numerous postponements and cancellations due to various health issues.
?It?s my time to go Back to the Beginning?.time for me to give back to the place where I was born. How blessed am I to do it with the help of people whom I love. Birmingham is the true home of metal. Birmingham Forever,? he joyfully expressed.
Musical director Tom Morello will oversee the event, which will also support various charitable organizations, including the Acorn Children?s Hospice and Birmingham Children?s Hospital.
In the days following the announcement, heartfelt statements from guitarist Tony Iommi, bassist Geezer Butler, and Sharon Osbourne have amplified the excitement surrounding the event. Additionally, numerous rock musicians and fans have expressed their enthusiasm.
Mastodon shared their excitement, stating, ?It?s hard to put into words how excited and honored we are to take part in this. July 5th at Villa Park, Birmingham! @BlackSabbath and @OzzyOsbourne and a killer lineup! Yes, please! This is going to be amazing.? Meanwhile, one fan on X tweeted, ?That Black Sabbath show and all the acts involved (except Pantera, fuck Pantera) is going to be the biggest metal event I think I?ve seen in my life so far.?
If you?re eager to attend this momentous occasion, tickets will be available for purchase starting at 10 AM GMT on Friday, February 14, through Live Nation’s U.K. site.
So, are you looking forward to this spectacular show? What are your thoughts on Daisley not being invited and his reaction to the situation? We?d love to hear your opinions!
Bob Daisley Shares Insights on Ozzy?s Final Show and His Personal Journey with Indie Power TV
Ranking Black Sabbath Songs from the Ozzy Osbourne Era
A total of 79 songs, including interludes!
Gallery Credit: Joe DiVita