Back to the beginning

His life may have been defined by chaos, controversy and tales of excess, but music legend Ozzy Osbourne got what could be described as the perfect send off last week when he passed away at 76, surrou

I was a rebellious kid. I didn’t like commitment, I couldn’t hold a job down. I was always being yelled at by my mother for not bringing any money into the house. I was a bit of a drifter really. I le

Over seemingly insurmountable obstacles, OZZY OSBOURNE dragged himself to the pinnacle of rock'n'roll. Haunted by rejection, raddled with substances, but also full of love, fun and a talent he couldn't describe or always understand, his victory was one for every underdog, everywhere. SYLVIE SIMMONS watched it all unfold...

A consummate showman, OZZY OSBOURNE became a megastar by adopting a role as the Prince Of Darkness. His chaotic reputation, however, can sometimes obscure a more interesting character: the charismatic, natural-born frontman who never underestimated the influence and musical power of his first band, Black Sabbath. John Robinson surveys Ozzy’s career and salutes his triumphs, his legacy – and also his humility. “I remember thinking, ‘This’ll be all right for a few years, have a party every night’ – now here we are 50 years up the fucking road. It’s beyond any dream I could ever have had.”

Ozzy as a young boy. He attended Prince Albert Junior & Infant School in Aston, where he picked up the nickname Ozzy. He was born John Michael Osbourne. The first ever picture of Ozzy’s band – Tony Io

A personal Ozzy tribute by Classic Rock ’s Geoff Barton.