Tony Iommi Opens Up About Coping With the Loss of Ozzy Osbourne: “It’s Like Losing a Brother”
Tony Iommi, the legendary guitarist and co-founder of Black Sabbath, has spoken candidly about the profound loss of his longtime bandmate and friend, Ozzy Osbourne, in a recent interview with BBC. Known for his pioneering work in heavy metal, Iommi has been at the heart of rock music for decades, and the passing of Osbourne marks not only the end of an era but also a deeply personal moment for him.
Reflecting on his feelings, Iommi described the experience as “devastating.” He shared the difficulty of coming to terms with the reality that Ozzy is no longer present:
“That [Ozzy’s death] is, I say, devastating. I find it difficult at the moment to really accept that. I still think he’s there, and I still go to text him and stuff, and he’s not there anymore. It’s really weird. Really weird. And I think that’s going to take a long time, because it’s like—it’s losing a brother.”
These words reveal the depth of the bond between the two musicians, a connection that extends far beyond music. For over half a century, Iommi and Osbourne were more than just bandmates; they were collaborators, friends, and brothers-in-arms. Together, they shaped the sound of heavy metal, creating music that defined a genre and inspired millions around the world.
A Brotherhood Forged Through Music
The relationship between Tony Iommi and Ozzy Osbourne was unique in the music world. From the formation of Black Sabbath in the late 1960s, their partnership was built on mutual respect, creative synergy, and a shared vision for their music. The riffs Iommi created and the vocals Ozzy delivered combined to produce some of the most iconic songs in rock history, including Paranoid, Iron Man, and War Pigs.
Yet their bond went beyond the stage. Iommi’s reflections on Ozzy’s passing reveal a deep emotional connection, likening the loss to that of a brother. This sentiment resonates with fans who understand that Black Sabbath was not just a band but a family. Over decades of touring, recording, and enduring the highs and lows of fame, their relationship grew into one of lifelong friendship.
The Emotional Impact of Loss
Grief is rarely simple, and for someone like Tony Iommi, who has spent decades sharing his life and work with a close companion, the impact is particularly profound. Iommi’s admission that he still reaches for his phone to text Ozzy underscores the difficulty of adjusting to life without him.
“I still think he’s there,” Iommi said. This poignant remark highlights the dissonance many feel when losing someone who has been a constant presence for decades. The loss of a bandmate, especially one as influential and iconic as Ozzy, carries both personal and professional weight. Iommi is navigating the challenge of reconciling the absence of his friend with the ongoing responsibilities of his musical legacy.
A Legacy That Lives On
While the grief is intense, Tony Iommi also acknowledges the enduring legacy of Ozzy Osbourne. Their music continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike, serving as a testament to their collaboration and creativity. Black Sabbath’s influence on rock and heavy metal is immeasurable, and the work they created together ensures that Ozzy’s presence remains alive in the hearts of fans worldwide.
Iommi himself has contributed to keeping this legacy alive, continuing to engage with music, tours, and projects that honor the spirit of the band. Even as he grapples with personal loss, he recognizes that their collective contributions have left a permanent mark on culture.
Coping With Grief Through Reflection
For Iommi, coping with Ozzy’s death is not just about mourning; it is also about remembering and cherishing the moments they shared. From late-night jam sessions to world tours, from groundbreaking albums to personal conversations, the memories of their time together are a source of comfort amid sorrow.
Grieving a lifelong companion involves embracing these memories while slowly adjusting to life without them. Iommi’s openness in discussing his feelings offers fans a glimpse into the human side of rock legends — a reminder that behind the stage personas are real people experiencing profound loss and emotion.
The Fans’ Perspective
Fans of Black Sabbath have shared in this sense of loss. For many, Ozzy Osbourne’s death feels like the end of an era, a closing chapter in the story of heavy metal. Tony Iommi’s reflections help contextualize the depth of this loss and underscore the personal stakes behind the public tragedy. His words remind fans that the music they love is intertwined with real human relationships and emotions.
The acknowledgment of grief also strengthens the bond between artist and audience. By sharing his feelings so openly, Iommi allows fans to process their own emotions and celebrate the legacy of both him and Ozzy in a more intimate way.
Moving Forward While Honoring the Past
Tony Iommi’s journey after losing Ozzy will be gradual, marked by reflection, remembrance, and continued dedication to music. The metaphor of losing a brother captures the emotional weight of this transition — the idea that some losses cannot be rushed or forgotten, only carried forward with care and respect.
Even amid sorrow, Iommi remains committed to honoring the legacy they built together. Through interviews, performances, and public appearances, he continues to celebrate the life and contributions of Ozzy Osbourne, ensuring that his spirit remains present in the world of music.
Conclusion
The passing of Ozzy Osbourne represents not only the loss of a rock icon but also the profound absence of a lifelong friend and creative partner for Tony Iommi. As he navigates grief, his reflections reveal the depth of their bond and the enduring significance of their work together.
Tony Iommi’s words — “It’s like losing a brother” — resonate with fans, highlighting that the music, memories, and influence of Black Sabbath endure, even as those who created it face the realities of loss. The story of Iommi and Osbourne is one of friendship, creativity, and resilience, reminding the world that behind every legendary song are human connections that shape not only music but life itself.
