As heartfelt tributes for Ozzy Osbourne continue to emerge, numerous musicians who were part of his remarkable solo band over the years have expressed their deep respect and admiration. The overwhelming sentiment shared among these artists is one of profound gratitude. Notable figures such as Rudy Sarzo, Joe Holmes, and Fred Coury have publicly acknowledged the pivotal role that Ozzy played in shaping their careers and lives.

In a touching gesture, guitarist Jake E. Lee, who recently reconnected with Ozzy during the Back to the Beginning concert, shared the last text message he received from Ozzy before his passing, highlighting their enduring bond.

Below, you will find heartfelt tributes from twelve talented musicians who played in Ozzy’s solo band throughout the years, each reflecting on their unique experiences and the impact Ozzy had on their lives.

Zakk Wylde’s Heartfelt Message to Ozzy

THANK YOU FOR BLESSING THE WORLD WITH YOUR KINDNESS & GREATNESS, OZ! YOU BROUGHT LIGHT INTO SO MANY LIVES AND MADE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE. YOU LIVED WITH THE HEART OF A LION. EVERY DAY, I THANK THE GOOD LORD FOR BLESSING MY LIFE WITH YOU IN IT. I LOVE YOU OZ, BEYOND FOREVER. ZAKK XOXO

Rudy Sarzo Expresses Deep Appreciation

Ozzy gave me my first break in the music industry, thanks to Randy‘s recommendation. Without Ozzy Osbourne, my career might not have existed. I am eternally grateful to both Ozzy and Randy for believing in me.

Gus G. Reflects on a Life-Changing Journey

RIP @ozzyosbourne. Dear Ozzy, thank you for everything you’ve done for me—the invaluable advice, the cherished memories, and the incredible music. You changed my life forever, and I will never forget that. As a guitar player, it was the highest honor of my career to record an album and tour the world with you for seven unforgettable years. My heartfelt condolences to your family.

Mike Inez Remembers Fond Moments

Thank you, Ozzy. I cherished every moment I spent with you since 1990. We shared countless laughs and unforgettable experiences. I will always miss you, but I’m grateful we got to make some noise together one last time. Thank you for a wonderful life. #ozzyosbourne

Adam Wakeman Honors Ozzy’s Influence

Thank you for everything you have done for me, my family, my career, my musicianship, and my love for music. I will always treasure the love and laughter we shared during our many tours around the globe. There are men, and then there are great men, and above them all stands @ozzyosbourne. Sending love and the highest respect to Ozzy and the entire Osbourne family.

READ MORE: Ozzy Osbourne Dies at 76 – Rockers Pay Tribute

Bob Daisley Remembers a True Friendship

WORDS FROM BOB DAISLEY. This is a profoundly sad day that has brought me to tears. As I reflect on the moments shared between Ozzy and me, I remember the laughter, the fun, and the incredible music we created together, which will far outlive our mortal existence. My condolences go out to everyone left behind by Ozzy. Nothing can alter the genuine friendship we once shared; I will see you ‘on the other side.’ Bob Daisley.

Brad Gillis Cherishes Unforgettable Memories

“Goodbye to friends, Goodbye to all the past… I guess that we’ll meet, we’ll meet in the end.” I will always be grateful for Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne. Everything they did for my career and personally is something I will forever be indebted to them for. My experiences with Ozzy are cherished memories that I hold dear. With Ozzy, you could experience a whirlwind of emotions, but what stands out the most are our crazy, fun times and rocking out together while playing those incredible songs. Unforgettable! Flying high, Bossman! I’m sure Randy is waiting to greet you. My condolences go out to Sharon, his family, and his millions of fans worldwide. “His legend will live on.”

Jake E. Lee Shares a Final Message

Still processing everything. The finality of it all washes over me in waves. This was a text I received from him while sitting in an airport heading back home two weeks ago: Hi Jake, I’m so sorry I couldn’t spend more time with you that weekend, but it was really chaotic. I would love to see you when I eventually get back to LA, just to catch up since it’s been so long. Where are you living these days? I heard you were in Las Vegas. How did your gig go on Saturday? I hope you had fun! I will text you when I’m back in LA, and we must connect. Much love and respect, OZZY.

Phil Soussan Reflects on Ozzy’s Legacy

The magnitude and impact of Ozzy’s passing is nothing short of seismic. The outpouring of love and respect for someone who transformed challenges into remarkable successes is not only justified but should inspire anyone who doubts their courage to pursue their dreams. As someone whose career was ignited by him, I felt honored to participate in pivotal moments when the future seemed uncertain. When Ozzy granted me the privilege of co-writing and recording the song, Shot in the Dark, he helped me move closer to realizing my dreams. For that, I am eternally grateful! Sitting here late last night, looking through photographs and old magazine articles has evoked a wave of emotion and nostalgia. Images of my dear brother, Randy Castillo, RIP, and many others who are no longer with us, now joined by Ozzy, has been heart-wrenching. May Ozzy rest in peace, and my deepest condolences go out to all his family and friends.

Joe Holmes Pays Tribute to a Mentor

With a heavy heart, I write this tribute to honor one of the greatest musical influences in my life. Ozzy and his music were foundational to me as both a person and a professional player. Playing alongside him stands as one of the greatest honors of my career. I cherish the fond memories of our time together, from sharing morning coffee to listening to his captivating stories. He was endlessly supportive and always encouraged me to embrace my true self. His music is a precious gift to the world and will forever resonate. I will truly miss you, Oz. My thoughts and prayers are with Sharon, Aimee, Kelly, Jack, and Louis.

Don Airey’s Fond Remembrances of Ozzy

Ozzy: the world without you feels suddenly smaller and much quieter. Thank you for those wonderful years on tour during the 80s. I remember our first Rock in Rio Festival in 1985, where you sat at the bar lamenting about 15 years of touring the world, only seeing gigs and hotels. So, we took a taxi up to Christo Redentor, the colossal statue overlooking the city, and climbed the 200+ steps to the top, where the view was absolutely breathtaking. That was until we noticed our tour manager and security frantically scurrying about below. We were swiftly whisked away for a photo shoot on Ipanema beach, which involved you frolicking in the waves with 50 stuffed piranha fish! The next day, we performed in front of 350,000 people, sharing the stage with Queen, Scorpions, and Whitesnake. As you used to say, not bad for a boy from Aston. Rest in peace, old friend. Our deepest sympathies to Sharon and the family.

Don & Doris Airey

Fred Coury Reflects on His Career Transformation

Ozzy provided me with my start as a drummer in the music industry when I was just 17. That moment changed the entire trajectory of my life. Fast forward to just a few months ago, and I had the incredible honor of composing the orchestral score for what would become his final single — a full-circle moment I never could have imagined. Today, we mourn the loss of a legend and icon, but Ozzy was so much more than that. He was a force of nature, a unique talent who gave me my chance. Rest in power, Ozzy. Thank you for everything.

Reflecting on Ozzy’s Final Performance and Legacy

On July 5, Ozzy Osbourne took the stage for the last time during the Back to the Beginning concert, marking a poignant farewell tribute for both him and Black Sabbath. The event featured performances from iconic bands such as Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Slayer, Pantera, Gojira, Halestorm, Alice in Chains, Tool, and many more, who played shortened sets, along with all-star collectives of musicians forming one-off supergroups for the occasion.

The day-long festivities culminated in a historic performance by Ozzy Osbourne, followed by Black Sabbath, as they played together for the last time in front of a concert crowd. Osbourne opened the show with a five-song set alongside many musicians who had been part of his solo band over the years. Following that, Black Sabbath closed the event with a four-song performance, reuniting all four original members, including drummer Bill Ward, who had previously bowed out of their farewell tour due to a contractual dispute.

The concert diverted all the funds raised throughout the day to local charities, with none of the participating acts accepting payment for their performances. The event ended up setting a record for charity shows, raising over $190 million for Birmingham Children’s Hospital, Acorn Children’s Hospice, and Cure Parkinson’s.

The blissful atmosphere following the concert continued to resonate in the news cycle, with bands and fans alike sharing their tributes and memories of Ozzy and Black Sabbath, as well as recollections of the final show.

READ MORE: Ozzy’s Final Social Media Post Turns Into Online Fan Memorial

However, a heavy sadness enveloped the world on Tuesday, July 22, when it was announced that Ozzy Osbourne had passed away, just 17 days after his last performance. The flood of tributes has been overwhelming, coming from unexpected places, including Kermit the Frog, The Alamo, and PETA. Ozzy Osbourne was 76 at the time of his passing.